The total age dependency ratio is the ratio of young + elderly dependents (who are generally economically inactive, under 15 or over 64 years old), 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 dependent population.
Ireland's age dependency ratio for the dependent population was: 52.6% reported in 2024 (most recent observation). This is a high value against a global average of 40.1%. A higher ratio indicates more financial stress on working people and possible political instability.
Ireland's data is highlighted in the table below, use the filter and sort order options to allow easy comparison with other countries.
Data source: United Nations, Washington D.C.