Uruguay/Society

Society in Uruguay

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

Explore Social Domains

Demographics

Coming Soon
Population
3.4M(2023)
Population Growth
-0.1%(2023)
Fertility Rate
1.41(2023)
Death Rate
9.8 per 1k(2023)
Net Migration
-1.3K(2024)

Public Health

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Life Expectancy
78.1 years(2023)
Under-5 Mortality
6.7 per 1k(2023)
Maternal Mortality
15 per 100k(2023)
Health Expenditure (as share of GDP)
8.9%(2022)

Education & Human Capital

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Literacy Rate
99%(2022)
Primary Enrollment
99.4%(2017)
Secondary Enrollment
121.1%(2022)
Tertiary Enrollment
76.4(2022)
Education Expenditure (as share of GDP)
4.5%(2022)

Living Standards & Connectivity

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Internet Users
89.9%(2023)
Access to Electricity
100%(2023)
Access to Basic Drinking Water
99.5%(2022)
Urban Population
3.2M(2023)
Rural Population
143.3K(2023)

Current Snapshot Overview

A summary of key social and demographic indicators for Uruguay

  • Uruguay has an estimated population of 3.4M
    2023
    . The population exhibits near-stagnant growth at -0.1%
    2023
    , signaling potential demographic headwinds and an aging trend. 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. Net emigration is relatively minor, impacting the population by approximately 1K individuals annually (or -0.4 per 1,000 inhabitants)
    2024
    .
  • Regarding public health, robust public health systems are evident in a strong life expectancy of 78.1 years
    2023
    , indicating effective healthcare delivery. Concurrently, healthcare system effectiveness is further validated by favorable maternal and child health outcomes, reflected in a child mortality rate (under 5 years) of 6.7 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 moderate commitment to health system development, with 8.9% of GDP directed to healthcare expenditure
    2022
    .
  • The country boasts exceptional educational attainment with a near-universal adult literacy rate of 99%
    2022
    , establishing a robust foundation for a knowledge-based economy. Complementing this, the educational pipeline demonstrates high efficiency with 99% primary enrollment
    2017
    and 121% secondary participation
    2022
    , ensuring comprehensive skill development and a prepared workforce. This educational framework is supported by moderate public support, with 4.5% of GDP allocated to public educational expenditure
    2022
    , reflecting a balanced approach to funding.
  • In terms of infrastructure and connectivity, as a highly urbanized society with 96% of the population residing in urban areas
    2023
    , the country benefits from concentrated economic activity, efficient service delivery, and innovation potential. Furthermore, infrastructure development shows strong progress with 100% electricity access
    2023
    and 90% internet penetration
    2023
    , supporting ongoing modernization efforts and enhancing quality of life.

Key Development Insights

Population Dynamics

The combination of low fertility and net emigration poses significant long-term risks to workforce sustainability and economic vitality.

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

A highly urbanized, digitally connected society creates a strong foundation for service-based industries and global market access.

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.