Population of Switzerland
Explore Switzerland’s population, major cities, demographics,
and how the country’s population has evolved over time
Switzerland Population: Growth, Diversity and Change
Switzerland may be known worldwide for its mountains, lakes, and precision engineering, but the story of modern Switzerland is also a story of people. Over the past century, the country has transformed from a largely rural society into one of Europe’s most urbanized and internationally connected nations. Today, Switzerland is home to more than nine million residents, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the Alpine region. Population growth has been steady for decades, driven by a combination of natural growth and immigration. While the country’s spectacular landscapes often capture global attention, its population trends reveal how Switzerland has evolved into a modern multicultural society.
Switzerland’s population has increased from 2.39 million in 1850 to over 9 million today, driven by economic growth, urbanization, longer life expectancy, and migration.
Top Foreign nationals by country of origin
- Italy 14.5%
- Germany 13.8%
- Portugal 11.0%
- France 6.8%
- Kosovo 5.0%
Population Density
Life Expectancy
Switzerland enjoys one of the highest life expectancies in the world, reflecting its high quality of life, excellent healthcare system, and healthy living standards.
Woman: 85.4 years
Men: 81.6 years