Distribution Population pyramid
A population pyramid is a type of distribution chart that visually represents the population by age groups, divided by males and females.
Use a population pyramid to display the age and sex distribution of a population.
Visual styles for population pyramids are detailed in our chart style guide on Notion (opens in a new tab) .
Example of a simple population pyramid
What data to use
Population pyramids can be constructed using either absolute numbers or percentages of the total population (females and males). Both approaches will result in a population pyramid with the same shape but they provide different values.
Absolute numbers show the actual population count in each age and sex category.
Percentages represent each age and sex group as a proportion of the total population.
When creating a population pyramid, make sure that the values add up to either 100% (if using percentages) or the total population size (if using absolute numbers).
Do not use a population pyramid to display rates, such as the proportion of people in an age group who are unemployed. Population pyramids are specifically designed to show the distribution of a population by age and sex. To display rates, consider using a standard bar chart or another chart type.
Age bands
All age bands must be the same size. Normally we use either one-year age bands or five-year age bands.
Use the most detailed level available in the data.
Comparing populations
To compare the demographic structure of two different groups, or the same group over two different time periods, use a population pyramid with a comparison line.
Use bars to represent the group you are focusing on and a line to represent the national average or another comparator group.
When comparing two time periods, use the bars to depict the current time period and the comparison line to represent the earlier time period.
When comparing two different groups use percentage data instead of absolute values to make an effective comparison.