Vietnam Population Density

Vietnam has one of the densest populations in the world. Data from the 2009 census conducted by Vietnam’s General Statistic Office (GSO) indicates that Vietnam’s population density reached 263 people/km², ranking 16th in Asia and 3rd in Southeast Asia. Compared to nearby countries, Vietnam’s density was roughly twice that of China (137 people/km²), three times Cambodia (78 people/km²), and eleven times Laos (25 people/km²). This high density is driven by rapid population growth and limited land area. However, birth rates have declined significantly in recent years.

Vietnam population density map 

Population density varies by region, with most people living in the Red River Delta and the Southeastern – Mekong Delta regions. Density is highest in the Red River Delta (1,546 people/km²), followed by Southeast (775 people/km²) and Mekong River Delta (559 people/km²). These regions are Vietnam’s main agricultural hubs and home to its two largest cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. In contrast, the Central Highlands (113 people/km²) and Northern mountainous areas (95–117 people/km²) are sparsely populated due to their terrain and climate.

Globally, Mongolia has the lowest population density, while Monaco is the densest country. Below is a table of population density in selected countries:

Source: WorldAtlas, updated with 2025 data.

Updates:

• Vietnam’s population density is now 328 people/km² (as of March 2025).
• Total population estimated at over 101.6 million, growing ~0.99% annually since 2019.
• Red River Delta: 1,546 people/km²; Southeast: 775; Mekong Delta: 559; Central Highlands: 113.
• Fertility rate has declined from 2.11 (2021) to 1.96 (2023).
• Vietnam ranks 16th globally in population and 3rd in population density within Southeast Asia.
• Sources: Worldometer, Vietnam-Briefing.com, Vietnamnet.vn, Wikipedia.