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The global Jewish population increased by about 100,000 from last year, according to data based on Prof. Sergio Della Pergola’s research.
Jerusalem, October 2, 2024 – On the eve of the Jewish New Year 5785, the Jewish population worldwide numbers 15.8 million, an increase of about 100,000 compared to 15.7 million in 5784. This is according to data published by The Jewish Agency, based on research conducted by demographer Prof. Sergio Della Pergola from the Hebrew University for the American Jewish Yearbook (2024 AJYB).
According to the data, 7.3 million Jews live in Israel, compared to 7.2 million at the beginning of 5784, while 8.5 million Jews live outside of Israel — including 6.3 million in the United States and 2.2 million in other countries. The figure for Israel is calculated after a technical correction made by Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics regarding the definitions of residency in Israel.
Commenting on the significance of the global Jewish population figures, Chairman of The Jewish Agency Maj. Gen. (res.) Doron Almog said, “The existential relationship between the Jewish communities around the world and the State of Israel has strengthened in the past year. We are witnessing unprecedented support that provides us the strength and hope to carry on. The difficult war that was imposed on us, alongside the struggle of Jews around the world against rising antisemitism, emphasizes the shared destiny and the mission of The Jewish Agency — to be a living bridge between global Jewry and the State of Israel, to be the home for all Jews from around the world — from all denominations and sectors. We will continue to unite and harness the power of the Jewish people to restore the State of Israel and build a model society based on the values of mutual responsibility and unconditional love.”
The Jewish population estimates for Russia and Ukraine were adjusted for the significant immigration that followed the war there. In some countries, calculations were made according to recent surveys and in other countries, the total was determined according to statistical data and accepted tools for demographic assessment.
The data in this study refers to what is defined as the core Jewish population: people who identify as Jews and/or sons and daughters of at least one Jewish parent, and who are not members of another religion.
The core Jewish population by country, in countries with a total of at least 10,000 Jews, as of January 2024 (not including broad definitions of those entitled to the Law of Return) is as follows:
France 438,500
Canada 400,000
Great Britain 313,000
Argentina 170,000
Germany 125,000
Russia 123,000
Australia 117,000
Brazil 90,300
South Africa 49,500
Hungary 45,000
Mexico 41,000
Holland 35,000
Ukraine 32,000
Belgium 29,000
Italy 26,800
Switzerland 20,500
Uruguay 16,100
Chile 15,500
Turkey 15,000
Sweden 14,900
Spain 13,000
Austria 10,300
Panama 10,000
About The Jewish Agency for Israel
Since 1929, The Jewish Agency for Israel has been working to secure a vibrant Jewish future. It was instrumental in founding and building the State of Israel and continues to serve as the main link between the Jewish state and Jewish communities everywhere. This global partnership has enabled it to address the Jewish People’s greatest challenges in every generation. Today, the Jewish Agency connects the global Jewish family, bringing Jews to Israel, and Israel to Jews, by providing meaningful Israel engagement and facilitating Aliyah. It also strives to build a better society in Israel – and beyond – energizing young Israelis and their worldwide peers to rediscover a collective sense of Jewish purpose. The Jewish Agency continues to be the Jewish world’s first responder, prepared to address emergencies in Israel, and to rescue Jews from countries where they are at risk. For more information, please visit: www.jewishagency.org
