The old-age dependency ratio is the ratio of elderly dependents (who are generally economically inactive and 65 years and older), compared to the number of people of working age (15-64-year-olds).
A high dependency ratio means those of working age, and the overall economy, face a greater burden in supporting the aging population.
China's age dependency ratio for elderly people was: 21.2% reported in 2024 (most recent observation). This is a high value against a global average of 16.0%. A higher ratio indicates more financial stress on working people, possible political instability and an elevated investment risk factor.
China's data is highlighted in the table below, use the filter and sort order options to allow easy comparison with other countries.
Data source: World Bank, Washington D.C.