Developed Countries
Geography: KS3, topic 4.1.8
Population Structure in Developed Countries
The population structure of a country is usually linked to its level of development. Developed countries have a low birth rate, a low death rate and a high life expectancy.

Birth rate
- In developed countries, there is a low birth rate.
- This is due to a number of factors:
- More women are pursing a career and so having children at an older age, and having fewer.
- Also, people recognise how expensive it is to bring children up and so have fewer to be able to afford to provide a better quality of life for them.

Death rate and infant mortality
- In developed countries, the death rate is low.
- This is because developed countries have effective healthcare systems that can cure diseases and ensure that fewer people die each year.
- The infant mortality rate is low because very few children die before their first birthday.

Life expectancy
- In developed countries, the life expectancy is high.
- People are educated and aware of what a healthy lifestyle is and so are able to take steps to ensure that they live longer.
Test yourself on Developed Countries
What is common in a developed country?
What is common in a developed country?