Society in Portugal

An overview of key social indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.

Explore Social Domains

Demographics

Coming Soon
Population Growth
1.4%(2023)
Death Rate
11.2 per 1k(2023)

Public Health

Coming Soon
Under-5 Mortality
3.2 per 1k(2023)
Health Expenditure
10%(2023)

Education & Human Capital

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Literacy Rate
96.8%(2021)
Primary Enrollment
97.6%(2017)
Secondary Enrollment
122%(2022)
Tertiary Enrollment
75.6(2022)
Education Expenditure
4.8%(2021)

Infrastructure & Connectivity

Coming Soon
Internet Users
85.8%(2023)
Access to Electricity
100%(2023)
Access to Basic Drinking Water
99.3%(2022)
Urban Population
7.2M(2023)
Rural Population
3.4M(2023)

Current Social Overview of Portugal

A summary based on key social and demographic indicators.

  • Portugal has an estimated population of 10.6M
    2023
    A steady annual growth rate of 1.4%
    2023
    supports sustained population expansion, providing a stable base for economic development. The critically low fertility rate of 1.4 births per woman
    2023
    presents severe demographic challenges, including accelerated population aging and contraction, impacting economic and social systems. Positive net migration of approximately 21K individuals annually (or 2.0 per 1,000 inhabitants)
    2024
    contributes to population stability and growth.
  • Regarding public health, a life expectancy of 82.3 years
    2023
    demonstrates exceptional health outcomes in the nation, positioning it among the world's healthiest populations. Concurrently, healthcare system effectiveness is further validated by favorable maternal and child health outcomes, reflected in a child mortality rate (under 5 years) of 3.2 per 1,000 live births
    2023
    and a maternal mortality rate of 15 per 100,000 live births
    2023
    . These outcomes are supported by a substantial health investment, with 10.0% of GDP allocated to healthcare expenditure
    2023
    .
  • Strong educational foundations are evident in the high adult literacy rate of 97%
    2021
    , which significantly contributes to human capital development. Complementing this, the educational pipeline demonstrates high efficiency with 98% primary enrollment
    2017
    and 122% secondary participation
    2022
    , ensuring comprehensive skill development and a prepared workforce. This educational framework is supported by moderate public support, with 4.8% of GDP allocated to public educational expenditure
    2021
    , reflecting a balanced approach to funding.
  • In terms of infrastructure and connectivity, the predominantly urban character, with 68% urban population
    2023
    , supports modern economic structures while maintaining important rural-urban linkages. Furthermore, infrastructure development shows strong progress with 100% electricity access
    2023
    and 86% internet penetration
    2023
    , supporting ongoing modernization efforts and enhancing quality of life.

Key Development Insights

Population Dynamics

Immigration is a key factor in stabilizing the population and offsetting low native birth rates, supporting economic continuity.

Public Health System

Sustained, high investment in healthcare underpins the country's excellent life expectancy and human development outcomes.

Human Capital Formation

A highly educated populace positions the nation for success in the global knowledge economy. Keeping talent is a vital strength.

Infrastructure & Connectivity

Infrastructure shapes economic efficiency, urbanization patterns, and digital integration, being critical for modern economies.

More About This Country

Neighbors & Regional Peers

Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.