The bar graph compares the proportion of people living in urban areas in six regions of the world in 1950, 2007 and 2050.
Overall, the rate of urban residents increased in all regions and this upward trend is expected to continue in the future. In addition, North America had the highest levels of urbanization, while Africa and Asia had the lowest.
In 1950, Africa and Asia were mainly rural, with only 15% and 17% of their populations living in cities. These figures rose to 37% and 41% respectively in 2007, and are predicted to reach 62% in Africa and 66% in Asia by 2050. Although the growth is significant, both regions will still have lower urban populations than the others.
Europe and Latin America/Caribbean showed much higher levels. In Europe, the percentage increased from 51% in 1950 to 72% in 2007 and is ecpected to rise further to 84% in 2050. Similarly, Latin America and the Caribbean saw a shape rise from 42% to 76%, with a projected figure of 89% by 2050.
North America had the highest urban population throughout the period, growing from 64% in 1950 to 79% in 2007, and is forecast to reach 90% in 2050. Oceania is also experienced growth, from 62% to 71%, and is expected to increase slightly to 76% in the future.
