Population aging is accelerating in Kazakhstan. According to Energyprom.kz experts, the aging index (number of pensioners per 100 children) rose from 26.7 in 2021 to 32.9 in 2025, meaning there are 33 elderly people for every 100 children, reports Todayinfo news agency.
In cities, this indicator increased from 28.8 to 34.9, and in rural areas from 23.9 to 29.6. According to experts, this indicates a narrowing gap between generations.
The most difficult situation is observed in northern and central regions. In the North Kazakhstan region, the index reached 84.1, in East Kazakhstan region — 80.7, in Kostanay region — 71.3. In these areas, the number of elderly has approached the number of children.
“The sharp increase in the number of elderly and the decline in birth rates put a heavy burden on the labor market, healthcare and social system. If systemic solutions are not adopted, the situation will be costly,” experts warn.
The birth rate fell from 23.5 in 2021 to 16.4 in 2025 (per thousand people). In cities, this figure decreased from 23.2 to 15.8, in rural areas from 23.8 to 17.5. Even in traditionally “young” regions — Turkistan (22.2) and Mangystau (21.4) regions — birth rates are declining.
