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World Population Density
World Population Density maps population patterns and urban regions using Global Human Settlement Layer data.
About World Population Density
World Population Density is an interactive web map that shows population density across the globe for 2020, measured in residents per square kilometre. The map uses data from the Global Human Settlement Layer (GHSL) 2023, produced by the European Commission Joint Research Centre and the Center for International Earth Science Information Network at Columbia University. The GHSL combines satellite data with national census data to describe settlement patterns beyond simple rural and urban divisions. The site includes written discussion of topics such as India's rural and urban landscapes, megacity regions in the United States and China, and the relationship between density and development.
The site has a Map Guide and an Analysis page. The source states that the ranking of the highest-density cities depends on how density is measured, and it directs readers to the Analysis page for that explanation. The map is designed by D A Smith of CASA, UCL.
Key features
- Interactive global map of population density for 2020 in residents per square kilometre
- Colour legend with density bands from 20 to over 200,000 residents per km²
- Links that zoom the map to specific regions, such as India
- Written discussion of megacity regions, including the Pearl River Delta and Yangtze River Delta
- Map Guide and Analysis pages explaining the data and how density is measured
- Based on Global Human Settlement Layer 2023 data from the European Commission JRC and CIESIN
Best for: Students, researchers, and general readers interested in where people live across the globe and how urban settlement patterns differ between regions.
Good for
- Combines satellite data with national census data to describe settlement geography
- Records settlement patterns beyond simple rural-urban divisions
- Pairs the map with written explanations and region-specific examples
Watch out for
- The map shows density for 2020 only, according to its stated scope
- Rankings of the highest-density cities depend on how density is measured
- Introductory highlights are brief and link out for further information
World Population Density at a glance
- Website
- luminocity3d.org/WorldPopDen
- Category
- Travel & Maps › Maps, Navigation & Weather
- Type
- Website
- Pricing
- Not confirmed. Check the site
- Platforms
- Web
- Open source
- Not stated
- Last checked
- Oct 6, 2026 · Online when checked
- Listed
- Oct 5, 2026
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World Population Density FAQ
What data does the map use?
The map uses the Global Human Settlement Layer (GHSL) 2023, produced by the European Commission JRC and the Center for International Earth Science Information Network at Columbia University. The GHSL integrates satellite data with national census data.
What year does the map show?
The map shows population density in 2020, measured in residents per square kilometre.
Does the choice of density measure affect the results?
Yes. The site notes that the list of the world's highest-density cities depends on how density is measured, and it refers readers to the Analysis page for details.
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