The research estimates KwaZulu-Natal to have the largest proportion (21%) of the South African population while the Northern Cape has the smallest percentage of the total national population (2%). Population estimates for South Africa by province and selected district municipalities are reflected in the table below.
| Province | District municipality | Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| KwaZulu-Natal | eThekwini | 3 701 235 |
| Gauteng | City of Johannesburg Metropolitan | 3 516 475 |
| Western Cape | City of Cape Town Metropolitan | 3 392 255 |
| Gauteng | Ekurhuleni Municipality Metropolitan | 2 354 154 |
| Eastern Cape | OR Tambo | 2 166 923 |
The report provides essential population estimates for South Africa for decision makers who use demographic estimates at district municipality level. The estimates have particular relevance for land use planners, housing/community development planners, planners working in developing areas, transport planners as well as planners operating in the public (e.g water supply planning, planning of new schools, parks etc.) and private (e.g residential commercial development) sectors.
The 59-page report, No 402, may be purchased from the BMR.
