Key information about State of Palestine (West Bank and Gaza) population

• The State of Palestine (West Bank and Gaza) population reached 5.9 million people in Jun 2026, compared with the previously reported figure of 5.7 million people in Jun 2025
• The data reached an all-time high of 5.9 million people in Jun 2026 and a record low of 0.9 million people in Jun 1951

State of Palestine (West Bank and Gaza) Population Growth Rate: West Bank data was reported at 2.200 % in 2018. This stayed constant from the previous number of 2.200 % for 2017. State of Palestine (West Bank and Gaza) Population Growth Rate: West Bank data is updated yearly, averaging 2.600 % from Dec 1997 (Median) to 2018, with 13 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3.600 % in 1997 and a record low of 2.200 % in 2018. State of Palestine (West Bank and Gaza) Population Growth Rate: West Bank data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics. The data is categorized under Global Database’s State of Palestine (West Bank and Gaza) – Table PS.G002: Vital Statistics.

About this dataset

Context

The dataset tabulates the West Bank township population distribution across 18 age groups. It lists the population in each age group along with the percentage population relative of the total population for West Bank township. The dataset can be utilized to understand the population distribution of West Bank township by age. For example, using this dataset, we can identify the largest age group in West Bank township.

Key observations

The largest age group in West Bank Township, Minnesota was for the group of age 35 to 39 years years with a population of 9 (9.78%), according to the ACS 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. At the same time, the smallest age group in West Bank Township, Minnesota was the 85 years and over years with a population of 0 (0%). Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates

Content

When available, the data consists of estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates

Age groups:

• Under 5 years
• 5 to 9 years
• 10 to 14 years
• 15 to 19 years
• 20 to 24 years
• 25 to 29 years
• 30 to 34 years
• 35 to 39 years
• 40 to 44 years
• 45 to 49 years
• 50 to 54 years
• 55 to 59 years
• 60 to 64 years
• 65 to 69 years
• 70 to 74 years
• 75 to 79 years
• 80 to 84 years
• 85 years and over

Variables / Data Columns

• Age Group: This column displays the age group in consideration
• Population: The population for the specific age group in the West Bank township is shown in this column.
• % of Total Population: This column displays the population of each age group as a proportion of West Bank township total population. Please note that the sum of all percentages may not equal one due to rounding of values.

Good to know

Margin of Error

Data in the dataset are based on the estimates and are subject to sampling variability and thus a margin of error. Neilsberg Research recommends using caution when presening these estimates in your research.

Custom data

If you do need custom data for any of your research project, report or presentation, you can contact our research staff at research@neilsberg.com for a feasibility of a custom tabulation on a fee-for-service basis.

Inspiration

Neilsberg Research Team curates, analyze and publishes demographics and economic data from a variety of public and proprietary sources, each of which often includes multiple surveys and programs. The large majority of Neilsberg Research aggregated datasets and insights is made available for free download at https://www.neilsberg.com/research/.

Recommended for further research

This dataset is a part of the main dataset for West Bank township Population by Age. You can refer the same here

About this dataset

Context

The dataset tabulates the data for the West Bank Township, Minnesota population pyramid, which represents the West Bank township population distribution across age and gender, using estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. It lists the male and female population for each age group, along with the total population for those age groups. Higher numbers at the bottom of the table suggest population growth, whereas higher numbers at the top indicate declining birth rates. Furthermore, the dataset can be utilized to understand the youth dependency ratio, old-age dependency ratio, total dependency ratio, and potential support ratio.

Key observations

• Youth dependency ratio, which is the number of children aged 0-14 per 100 persons aged 15-64, for West Bank Township, Minnesota, is 26.4.
• Old-age dependency ratio, which is the number of persons aged 65 or over per 100 persons aged 15-64, for West Bank Township, Minnesota, is 47.2.
• Total dependency ratio for West Bank Township, Minnesota is 73.6.
• Potential support ratio, which is the number of youth (working age population) per elderly, for West Bank Township, Minnesota is 2.1.

Content

When available, the data consists of estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates.

Age groups:

• Under 5 years
• 5 to 9 years
• 10 to 14 years
• 15 to 19 years
• 20 to 24 years
• 25 to 29 years
• 30 to 34 years
• 35 to 39 years
• 40 to 44 years
• 45 to 49 years
• 50 to 54 years
• 55 to 59 years
• 60 to 64 years
• 65 to 69 years
• 70 to 74 years
• 75 to 79 years
• 80 to 84 years
• 85 years and over

Variables / Data Columns

• Age Group: This column displays the age group for the West Bank township population analysis. Total expected values are 18 and are define above in the age groups section.
• Population (Male): The male population in the West Bank township for the selected age group is shown in the following column.
• Population (Female): The female population in the West Bank township for the selected age group is shown in the following column.
• Total Population: The total population of the West Bank township for the selected age group is shown in the following column.

Good to know

Margin of Error

Data in the dataset are based on the estimates and are subject to sampling variability and thus a margin of error. Neilsberg Research recommends using caution when presening these estimates in your research.

Custom data

If you do need custom data for any of your research project, report or presentation, you can contact our research staff at research@neilsberg.com for a feasibility of a custom tabulation on a fee-for-service basis.

Inspiration

Neilsberg Research Team curates, analyze and publishes demographics and economic data from a variety of public and proprietary sources, each of which often includes multiple surveys and programs. The large majority of Neilsberg Research aggregated datasets and insights is made available for free download at https://www.neilsberg.com/research/.

Recommended for further research

This dataset is a part of the main dataset for West Bank township Population by Age. You can refer the same here

In Palestine, the median age of the population was 19.76 years in 2023, meaning that almost half of the total population is comprised of children. The median age of a population is an index that divides the population into two equal groups: half of the population is older than the median age and the other half younger. In 2020, the median age of Palestine's population was estimated to be around 19 years.

About this dataset

Context

The dataset tabulates the West Bank township population over the last 20 plus years. It lists the population for each year, along with the year on year change in population, as well as the change in percentage terms for each year. The dataset can be utilized to understand the population change of West Bank township across the last two decades. For example, using this dataset, we can identify if the population is declining or increasing. If there is a change, when the population peaked, or if it is still growing and has not reached its peak. We can also compare the trend with the overall trend of United States population over the same period of time.

Key observations

In 2023, the population of West Bank township was 136, a 0.74% increase year-by-year from 2022. Previously, in 2022, West Bank township population was 135, a decline of 0% compared to a population of 135 in 2021. Over the last 20 plus years, between 2000 and 2023, population of West Bank township decreased by 63. In this period, the peak population was 199 in the year 2000. The numbers suggest that the population has already reached its peak and is showing a trend of decline. Source: U.S. Census Bureau Population Estimates Program (PEP).

Content

When available, the data consists of estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau Population Estimates Program (PEP).

Data Coverage:

• From 2000 to 2023

Variables / Data Columns

• Year: This column displays the data year (Measured annually and for years 2000 to 2023)
• Population: The population for the specific year for the West Bank township is shown in this column.
• Year on Year Change: This column displays the change in West Bank township population for each year compared to the previous year.
• Change in Percent: This column displays the year on year change as a percentage. Please note that the sum of all percentages may not equal one due to rounding of values.

Good to know

Margin of Error

Data in the dataset are based on the estimates and are subject to sampling variability and thus a margin of error. Neilsberg Research recommends using caution when presening these estimates in your research.

Custom data

If you do need custom data for any of your research project, report or presentation, you can contact our research staff at research@neilsberg.com for a feasibility of a custom tabulation on a fee-for-service basis.

Inspiration

Neilsberg Research Team curates, analyze and publishes demographics and economic data from a variety of public and proprietary sources, each of which often includes multiple surveys and programs. The large majority of Neilsberg Research aggregated datasets and insights is made available for free download at https://www.neilsberg.com/research/.

Recommended for further research

This dataset is a part of the main dataset for West Bank township Population by Year. You can refer the same here

The statistic shows the Israeli population in the West Bank from 1972 to 2016. At the end of 2016, about 399,300 Israelis were living in the West Bank.

About this dataset

Context

The dataset tabulates the population of West Bank township by gender across 18 age groups. It lists the male and female population in each age group along with the gender ratio for West Bank township. The dataset can be utilized to understand the population distribution of West Bank township by gender and age. For example, using this dataset, we can identify the largest age group for both Men and Women in West Bank township. Additionally, it can be used to see how the gender ratio changes from birth to senior most age group and male to female ratio across each age group for West Bank township.

Key observations

Largest age group (population): Male # 75-79 years (7) | Female # 5-9 years (7). Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates.

Content

When available, the data consists of estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates.

Age groups:

• Under 5 years
• 5 to 9 years
• 10 to 14 years
• 15 to 19 years
• 20 to 24 years
• 25 to 29 years
• 30 to 34 years
• 35 to 39 years
• 40 to 44 years
• 45 to 49 years
• 50 to 54 years
• 55 to 59 years
• 60 to 64 years
• 65 to 69 years
• 70 to 74 years
• 75 to 79 years
• 80 to 84 years
• 85 years and over

Scope of gender :

Please note that American Community Survey asks a question about the respondents current sex, but not about gender, sexual orientation, or sex at birth. The question is intended to capture data for biological sex, not gender. Respondents are supposed to respond with the answer as either of Male or Female. Our research and this dataset mirrors the data reported as Male and Female for gender distribution analysis.

Variables / Data Columns

• Age Group: This column displays the age group for the West Bank township population analysis. Total expected values are 18 and are define above in the age groups section.
• Population (Male): The male population in the West Bank township is shown in the following column.
• Population (Female): The female population in the West Bank township is shown in the following column.
• Gender Ratio: Also known as the sex ratio, this column displays the number of males per 100 females in West Bank township for each age group.

Good to know

Margin of Error

Data in the dataset are based on the estimates and are subject to sampling variability and thus a margin of error. Neilsberg Research recommends using caution when presening these estimates in your research.

Custom data

If you do need custom data for any of your research project, report or presentation, you can contact our research staff at research@neilsberg.com for a feasibility of a custom tabulation on a fee-for-service basis.

Inspiration

Neilsberg Research Team curates, analyze and publishes demographics and economic data from a variety of public and proprietary sources, each of which often includes multiple surveys and programs. The large majority of Neilsberg Research aggregated datasets and insights is made available for free download at https://www.neilsberg.com/research/.

Recommended for further research

This dataset is a part of the main dataset for West Bank township Population by Gender. You can refer the same here

West Bank and Gaza population growth rate for 2023 was 2.39%, a 0.03% decline from 2022.

<ul style='margin-top:20px;'>

<li>West Bank and Gaza population growth rate for 2022 was <strong>2.43%</strong>, a <strong>0.03% decline</strong> from 2021.</li>
<li>West Bank and Gaza population growth rate for 2021 was <strong>2.46%</strong>, a <strong>0.03% decline</strong> from 2020.</li>
<li>West Bank and Gaza population growth rate for 2020 was <strong>2.49%</strong>, a <strong>0.03% decline</strong> from 2019.</li>
</ul>Annual population growth rate for year t is the exponential rate of growth of midyear population from year t-1 to t, expressed as a percentage . Population is based on the de facto definition of population, which counts all residents regardless of legal status or citizenship.

State of Palestine (West Bank and Gaza) Population Growth Rate data was reported at 2.500 % in 2018. This stayed constant from the previous number of 2.500 % for 2017. State of Palestine (West Bank and Gaza) Population Growth Rate data is updated yearly, averaging 2.900 % from Dec 1997 (Median) to 2018, with 13 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3.800 % in 1997 and a record low of 2.500 % in 2018. State of Palestine (West Bank and Gaza) Population Growth Rate data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics. The data is categorized under Global Database’s State of Palestine (West Bank and Gaza) – Table PS.G002: Vital Statistics.

Historical chart and dataset showing total population for West Bank and Gaza by year from 1990 to 2023.

Abstract

IPUMS-International is an effort to inventory, preserve, harmonize, and disseminate census microdata from around the world. The project has collected the world's largest archive of publicly available census samples. The data are coded and documented consistently across countries and over time to facillitate comparative research. IPUMS-International makes these data available to qualified researchers free of charge through a web dissemination system.

The IPUMS project is a collaboration of the Minnesota Population Center, National Statistical Offices, and international data archives. Major funding is provided by the U.S. National Science Foundation and the Demographic and Behavioral Sciences Branch of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Additional support is provided by the University of Minnesota Office of the Vice President for Research, the Minnesota Population Center, and Sun Microsystems.

Geographic coverage

National coverage

Analysis unit

Households

UNITS IDENTIFIED: - Dwellings: Yes - Households: Yes - Individuals: Yes - Group quarters: No - Special populations: Yes (camp)

UNIT DESCRIPTIONS: - Dwellings: A building or part of a building constructed for one household only, with one or more independent entrances leading to the public road without passing through another housing unit. The unit might not be constructed for living purposes but was found occupied with a household during the enumeration. Likewise, the unit might be used for habitation or for work or both. It might be closed, vacant, or occupied by one or more households during the census. - Households: One person or a group of persons with or without a family relationship who live in the same housing unit or part of the same housing unit, share meals, and make joint provisions of food and other essentials of living. - Group quarters: A place constructed for the residence of a group of individuals, who live therein and benefit from the services it provides. It may be comprised one or more buildings or one or more housing units. Examples include hotels, hostels, elderly and orphan homes, psycho-therapy clinics and hospitals, collective households for university students, collective living quarters (camps) at the passages, and housing units of priests and nuns in the monasteries and churches (who do not have other households).

Universe

(1) All persons present in the Palestinian territory on the reference date, irrespective of nationality, purpose of stay and place of residence in the Palestinian territory. (2) All Palestinians temporarily living abroad (for less than one year prior to the night of the reference date) and who have a usual place of residence in the Palestinian territory (these persons are enumerated as part of their households). (3) All Palestinians studying abroad irrespective of the study period and the period of stay abroad, and all Palestinian detainees in the Israeli jails regardless of the detention period.

Kind of data

Census/enumeration data [cen]

Sampling procedure

MICRODATA SOURCE: Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics

SAMPLE DESIGN: A systematic random sample of 20 percent of households. IPUMS drew a systematic sample of every second household.

SAMPLE UNIT: Households

SAMPLE FRACTION: 10%

SAMPLE SIZE (person records): 259,191

Mode of data collection

Face-to-face [f2f]

Research instrument

The Population and Housing Conditions booklet, which includes form number 3 PHC and form number 12 PHC.

Response rate

COVERAGE: All households living in the West Bank and Gaza Strip except those living in those parts of Jerusalem

Abstract

The survey is designed to collect, analyze, and disseminate demographic and health data pertaining to the Palestinian population living in the Palestinian Territory, with a focus on demography, fertility, infertility, family planning, unmet needs, and maternal and child health, in addition to youth and the elderly. The 2010 survey includes new sections and elements, such as basic health and socio-economic information on different groups within the population: ever married woman less than 55 years and children aged less than five years, child labor in the age 5-14 years, child discipline 2-14 years, person education 5-24 years, youth aged 15-29 years, and elderly people over the age of 60.

Geographic coverage

The Data are representative at region level (West Bank, Gaza Strip), locality type (urban, rural, camp) and governorates

Analysis unit

Household, individual

Universe

The survey covered all the Palestinian households who are a usual residence in the Palestine.

Kind of data

Sample survey data [ssd]

Sampling procedure

Target Population The target population of the survey consists of all the following groups: 1- All Palestinian households normally residing in the Palestinian Territory. 2- Females aged 15 - 54 years. 3- Elderly people aged 60 or over. 4- Children aged 0 - 14 years and divided into the following categories: 0-5 years, 2-14 years, 5-14 years, with parts of the questionnaire customized for each group. 5- Youth aged 15 - 29 years and divided into the following categories: 15-24 years, 25-29 years, with parts of the questionnaire customized for youth.

Sampling Frame We relied on sampling frames established in PCBS and basically comprising the list of enumeration areas. (The enumeration area is a geographical area containing a number of buildings and housing units of about 120 housing units on average.)

The total frame consists of the following two parts:

1- West Bank and Gaza Sampling Frame: containing enumeration areas drawn up in 2007. In the West Bank: each enumeration area consists of a list of households with identification data to ascertain the address of individual households. In Gaza: each enumeration area contains a list of housing units with addresses to ascertain the address of individual households, plus identification data of the housing units.

2- Jerusalem Sampling Frame (inside checkpoints): contains enumeration areas only, geographically divided with information about the total number of households in these areas. However, there is no detailed information about addresses inside enumeration areas and the size of the enumeration area can be ascertained without the ability to identify the addresses.

Design Strata In the survey, two variables were chosen to divide the population into strata, depending on the homogeneity of parts of the population. Previous studies have shown that Palestinian households may be divided as follows: 1- Governorates: there are 16 governorates in the Palestinian Territory: 11 governorates in the West Bank and 5 in the Gaza Strip. 2- Locality Types: there are three types : urban, rural and refugee camps. All the available frames contain the strata variables. Sample Size We use the following formula to estimate the sample size:

    n  =  [(1.15) f(1-r) (r)4]  
  [(nh) p2(r0.07)]  

Where: - n: sample size requested for the main indicator or main estimate - 4: is a factor to achieve a 95 percent level of confidence - r is the predicted or anticipated prevalence (coverage rate) for the indicator - being estimated - 1.15 is the factor necessary to raise the sample size by 20 percent for non-response - f is the design effect - 0.07r is the margin of error to be tolerated at the 95 percent level of confidence, defined as 7 percent of r (7 percent represents the relative sampling error of r) - p is the proportion of the total population upon which the indicator, r, is based - nh is the average household size

To estimate the sample size of the survey we rely on the percentage of children under 5 years who suffer from stunting. We consider it as the main indicator for the survey (r) and it equals 10.2% (from MICS3 data -2006). Also, by returning to census data in 2007 we find the percentage of children aged 0 - 4 years =14.1%. Finally, the sample size = 15,355

Sample Design and Type After determining the sample size, which equals 15456 households, we selected a probability sample - a multi-stage stratified cluster sample as follows: 1- First stage: selecting a sample of clusters (enumeration areas) using PPS without replacement method to obtain 644 enumeration areas from the total enumeration area frame. 2- Second stage: selecting 24 households from each selected enumeration area of the first stage and using the systematic sample method. When reaching households, we enumerate all the targeted individuals from the groups: women (15-54) years, elderly aged 60 and more, children aged 0-5 years. 3- Third stage: selecting one child of age group 2-14 years for part of the questionnaire and one young person from the 15-29 age group to answer the youth attachment in the questionnaire. We use the Kish table to select one person at random.

Mode of data collection

Face-to-face [f2f]

Research instrument

The design of the survey complied with the standard specifications of health surveys previously implemented by PCBS. In addition, the survey included indicators of MICS4 to meet the needs of all partners.

    1.  Main questionnaire with the following parts:
     · Household questionnaire: Covers demographic and educational characteristics, chronic disease, smoking, discipline of children (2-14 years), child labor (5-14 years), education of children (5-24 years) and housing characteristics.

     · Health of women (15-54 years) regardless of marital status, awareness about AIDS, anemia in women (15-49 years).

     · Ever married women (15-54 years): Covers general characteristics of qualified women, reproduction, child mortality, maternal care, reproductive morbidity, family planning, and attitudes towards reproduction.

     · Children under age of 5: Covers children's health, vaccination against childhood diseases, early childhood development, chronic disease, and anemia.


 2. Attached questionnaires
    ·  Youth questionnaire (15-29 years): Covers general characteristics, awareness and perception of family planning, health status, awareness about sexually transmitted diseases and reproduction.

    ·  Elderly questionnaire (60 years and over): Covers general characteristics, social relations, activities, time-use, health status, and use of mass media.

Cleaning operations

Data editing took place at a number of stages through the processing including:

1. office editing and coding
2. during data entry
3. structure checking and completeness
4. structural checking of SPSS data files

Response rate

The survey sample consists of about 15,355 households of which 13,629 households completed the interview; whereas 8,740 households from the West Bank and 4,889 households in Gaza Strip. Weights were modified to account for non-response rate. The response rate in the West Bank reached 90.5% while in the Gaza Strip it reached 94.8%. The response rate in the Palestinian Territory reached 92.0%.

Sampling error estimates

Detailed information on the sampling Error is available in the Survey Report.

Data appraisal

Different methods were applied in the assessment of the survey data, including: 1. Occurrences of missing values and answers like "other" and "do not know". 2. Examining inconsistencies between the various sections of the questionnaire, including within record and cross-record consistencies. 3. Comparability of data with previous surveys 2000, 2006 and showed logical homogeneity in the results. The results of these assessment procedures show that the data are of high quality and consistency.

The total population in Palestine was forecast to continuously increase up to more than 5.4 million people by 2023. The current total population is estimated to amount to 5.48 million people in 2023, however these estimates have not yet been adjusted to account for the impact of the 2023 Israel-Hamas War.

About this dataset

Context

The dataset tabulates the West Bank township population by age cohorts (Children: Under 18 years; Working population: 18-64 years; Senior population: 65 years or more). It lists the population in each age cohort group along with its percentage relative to the total population of West Bank township. The dataset can be utilized to understand the population distribution across children, working population and senior population for dependency ratio, housing requirements, ageing, migration patterns etc.

Key observations

The largest age group was 18 to 64 years with a poulation of 52 (56.52% of the total population). Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates.

Content

When available, the data consists of estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates.

Age cohorts:

• Under 18 years
• 18 to 64 years
• 65 years and over

Variables / Data Columns

• Age Group: This column displays the age cohort for the West Bank township population analysis. Total expected values are 3 groups ( Children, Working Population and Senior Population).
• Population: The population for the age cohort in West Bank township is shown in the following column.
• Percent of Total Population: The population as a percent of total population of the West Bank township is shown in the following column.

Good to know

Margin of Error

Data in the dataset are based on the estimates and are subject to sampling variability and thus a margin of error. Neilsberg Research recommends using caution when presening these estimates in your research.

Custom data

If you do need custom data for any of your research project, report or presentation, you can contact our research staff at research@neilsberg.com for a feasibility of a custom tabulation on a fee-for-service basis.

Inspiration

Neilsberg Research Team curates, analyze and publishes demographics and economic data from a variety of public and proprietary sources, each of which often includes multiple surveys and programs. The large majority of Neilsberg Research aggregated datasets and insights is made available for free download at https://www.neilsberg.com/research/.

Recommended for further research

This dataset is a part of the main dataset for West Bank township Population by Age. You can refer the same here

Abstract

To improve the situation the PCBS has decided to undertake a fairly large demographic survey The main purpose of this survey is to provide basic demographic estimates at both the national and district level filling important gaps in existing statistics and reducing uncertainties surrounding the utility of available data Specifically, the survey provides detailed data on the following topics Population structure Female fertility Fertility preference Infant and child mortality Maternal and adult mortality Internal and international migration Marriage Family and household composition Educational attainmentHousing conditions

Geographic coverage

The target population consists of all Palestinian households that usually reside in the West Bank and Gaza Strip

Analysis unit

individual/ Household

Universe

The target population in this sample survey comprises all households living in West Bank and Gaza Strip excluding institutional population and nomads

Kind of data

Sample survey data [ssd]

Sampling procedure

A sampling strategy comprises two main elements: a sample design describing the scheme by which the sample of survey units is selected, and the estimators by which survey results can be computed from sample data. The two elements are usually closely interrelated, and determine the quality or reliability of survey estimates. In this section both elements will be described briefly. A more detailed description is provided in a separate working paper (Abu Hassan and Tamsfoss 1995).

The sample design adopted is a stratified three stage design for selection of households to be surveyed. At the first stage a sample of localities was selected. The sample localities have been subdivided into cells of approximately equal size, and a number of cells were selected randomly from each of the sample localities at the second stage. At the third and final stage, a sample of households was selected from the sample cells. For all the demographic variables included in the survey, records were taken for all members of the sample household.

Although a two-stage design would have been preferable, the present, more complex one is partly an outcome of limited availability of data on which sample designing usually is based, specifically data on the population size of various small area units, e.g. cells. The sample designing was undertaken in parallel with the updating of maps for the localities in the West Bank and Gaza Strip during the winter and spring 1995 - another ongoing PCBS project. Due to the limited time available, the design had to be completed before a complete set of updated locality maps was ready, implying the small area information needed was available for only a limited number of localities. However, the map updating was coordinated with the sample designing in such a way that once the first stage sample of localities was selected, mapping of these localities was given highest priority, thus offering an opportunity to subdivide sample localities into cells with a known measure of (population) size.

The present design is based on listings of localities provided by Barghouti and Daibas (1993) for the West Bank, and Abdeen and Abu-Libdeh (1993) for the Gaza Strip. Even though the population figures are rough estimates as per 1992-93, produced mainly by questioning local administration informants (e.g. Mukhtars) about the number of families in the locality, or projected estimates, they appear to be fairly well attuned with other sources (e.g. Benvenisti and Khayat 1988). Furthermore, the listings applied as a frame comprise more localities than previous ones, and should thus be more complete. However, the coverage may still be less than - although close to - 100% in terms of areas.

The first stage comprises the assigning of localities (as listed by Barghouti and Daibas 1993; Abdeen and Abu Libdeh 1993) to be the Primary Sampling Units (PSUs), the stratification of the PSUs, and the selection of sample PSUs from each stratum. The stratification is a subdivision of the PSUs according to district, administrative status of the locality, and estimated population (households) size. The PSUs were selected independently for each stratum, and with probability proportionate to estimated population size. In the Gaza Strip all localities were selected. The same applies to the district capitals, municipal localities and refugee camps in the West Bank, except in two strata in A Ramallah district. Whenever all PSUs in a stratum are selected, the design is a two stage one, and each single PSU is to be regarded as a separate substratum. The two stage design also applies for several of the small villages (single cell localities). As a matter of fact, the major parts of the sample is selected in two stages only, contributing favorably to smaller sampling error as compared to a strict three stage design.

The second stage subdivision of sample PSUs into cells (or Secondary Sampling Units - SSUs) was done on maps indicating location of buildings and a rough estimate of the number of dwelling in each building. Thus, for each sample PSU or locality as a whole, there are two size measures available; the estimated number of households, and the roughly estimated number of dwelling units. Although these sets of measures proved to be positively correlated, they departed significantly in most cases. However, for the cells, the number of dwelling units were the only measure of size available. Therefore, when selecting the sample cells from each sample PSU with probability proportionate to size, the size in terms of dwelling units had to be applied, i.e. a conceptually different size measure than the one applied at the first stage of selection (households).

For each sample cell the population has been listed by enumeration of buildings (map reference), and dwelling units. It should be noted that the number of dwelling units in each building was assessed by listers from outside no thorough inquiries were made as to whether they were inhabited or not. It was thus expected that errors would occur rather frequently - a problem which is to be evaluated separately on the basis of data collected during the survey. The listing of dwelling units constitutes the Sampling Frame from which the household sample was selected at a third stage by systematic sampling.

The planned sample size was 15,000 households. However, due to the sampling frame imperfections which were envisaged (several non-eligible units included), oversampling was carried out at a rate of approximately 30%, i.e. the gross sample selected at the outset comprised around 20,000 dwelling units.

The sampling design and sample allocation yield a household sample with varying inclusion probabilities. In order to have unbiased results, it is thus recommended that all estimates are based on weighed observations, the weights being the inverse of the respective inclusion probabilities.

All households in a cell have the same probability of being selected, however varying from cell to cell. It should be noted that non-eligible dwelling units (i.e. units which are not inhabited by households) have been removed from the sample. This does not affect the inclusion probabilities or the weights . The actual values of the weights are in the range 0.3 to 3.0. However, 80 % of the weights are in the range 0.7 to 1.4. Only a very few (small) cells are near the extremes.

Since the sampling design is a complex multi-stage one, variance must be calculated with other methods than those applicable to simple random sampling. In order to carry out the calculations, the software CENVAR (US Bureau of the Census 1993) has been used.

Mode of data collection

Face-to-face [f2f]

Research instrument

e Demographic Survey questionnaire consists of seven main parts Control Sheet which includes items related to quality control sample identification interview schedule and interview results Household Roster which includes questions related to the demographic and socio-economic characteristics of persons Household Mortality Schedule which includes questions related to deaths in the household during the past 24 months. Housing Schedule which includes questions on housing and housing conditions Relatives Abroad Schedule which includes questions on the number and the demographic characteristics of close relatives residing abroad Women's Schedule which includes questions mainly related to ever married women age 14-54 years Birth History which includes questions related to the characteristics of all births occurring to ever married women eligible for interview Answers to the first five parts of the questionnaires were obtained by interviewing the household head or any adult member of the household in cases where the head was not present during enumeration The last two sections of the questionnaire were completed by interviewing all eligible women The questionnaire was worded in colloquial Arabic Questions were written in full on the questionnaire and strict instructions were given to interviewers to read all questions verbatim during the interviews

Cleaning operations

A data entry template was designed to reflect an exact image of the questionnaire, and included various electronic checks logical check range checks consisting checks and cross-validation Weekly thorough checks on the overall consistency of the data files and sample allocation were also performed after data entry Questionnaire containing field-related errors were sent back to the field for corrections EPI-INFO Version 6.02 supported with NAFITHA-Version 4.00 (Arabization program) was used

Population growth (annual %) in Palestine was reported at 2.3933 % in 2023, according to the World Bank collection of development indicators, compiled from officially recognized sources. Palestine - Population growth (annual %) - actual values, historical data, forecasts and projections were sourced from the World Bank on June of 2025.

Abstract

The main objective of the PHC-2007 is to provide figures for the Palestinian population and their geographical distribution in accordance with a number of relatively stable basic characteristics to inform socioeconomic development purposes. Preparations for conducting censuses take usually 3-5 years for piloting, testing tools, work plans, human and physical needs and timetable. The census is one of the most important statistical activities as it provides statistical data on the distribution of population, and their demographic, social and economic characteristics in a certain reference period of time for all the individuals within the borders of the state.

Geographic coverage

West Bank and Gaza Strip

Analysis unit

Households Individuals Establishments

Universe

The PHC-2007 covered all individuals who were in the Palestinian Territory on the census reference night (30/11-1/12/2007) regardless of nationality and citizenship. It also covered all Palestinians who have usual residence in the Palestinian Territory (including those who were temporarily absent for less than one year for the purpose of visit, tourism, treatment, etc. while their households are still living at their permanent places of residence in the Palestinian Territory). All Palestinian students abroad while their households are still living at their permanent places of residence were also included, in addition to all prisoners and detainees in the Israeli jails regardless of the duration of detention. The census excluded all Palestinians holding identity cards who were absent for more than one year (except for the students), even if their households are still living in their places of residence in the Palestinian Territory.

Kind of data

Census/enumeration data [cen]

Sampling procedure

It consists of all the enumerated households in the Census 2007 and who are staying in the west bank at the time of enumeration.We select a systematic random sample from each enumeration area in the Census, and we select a 20% of the total households concluding all the individuals in the household.

Mode of data collection

Face-to-face [f2f]

Research instrument

The household questionnaire is divided into the following parts 1. Housing and housing conditions 2. Household individuals data 3. Summary of household members 4. Overseas tourism and kindergarten 5. Agriculture holding 6. Death in the household during past 12 months

The census questionnaire for the buildings is divided into four parts: Part one: includes identification data, such as: governorate, locality name, locality code, booklet no. in locality, total booklets in locality, no. of completed pages in booklet, enumeration area.
Part two: includes data for all buildings, such as: 1. Building Serial No. in the page 2. Building No. in Enumeration Area 3. Name of the Owner of the Building or Building Name and Address 4. Building Municipality No. 5. Type of Building 6. Type of Ownership 7. Material of External Walls 8. No. of Stories 9. Current Use of Building 10. Establishments Year 11. Total No. Houses in Building Part three: includes data for all Houses, such as: 1. No. of Houses in the Building 2. Current Use of Houses 3. The reason for Closed, Vacant and Deserted Houses Part four: includes data for all Houses used for habitation or work and habitation, such as: 1. Name of the Head of Household No. of Household Members

The household questionnaire is provided as external resources.

Cleaning operations

The data processing stage contain of the following operations: 1. Editing before Data Entry At this stage all booklets were edited in the office using the instructions previously prepared for checking to ensure consistent data. 2. Data Entry Program The data entry program was prepared and designed according to the census questionnaire. The program was prepared by using the Oracle database. 3. Data Entry After the completion of the design and the testing of the data entry program and training of data keyers, work began on data entry.

Response rate

100%

Sampling error estimates

The assessment of data of the Buildings and Housing Units Census of 2007 was based on the following items:

1. Comprehensive Data Localities maps were updated in order to achieve comprehensive coverage of all of the buildings and housing units in the Palestinian Territory. The localities were divided into clearly marked enumeration areas.

2. Data Comparison and Examination The data of the Buildings and Housing Units Census of the Palestinian Territory of 2007 were compared to the data of the Buildings and Housing Units Census of the Palestinian Territory of 1997. Moreover, inconsistency between questions and the internal inconsistency of the data were examined as part of the review of logic and completion of the data.

IPUMS-International is an effort to inventory, preserve, harmonize, and disseminate census microdata from around the world. The project has collected the world's largest archive of publicly available census samples. The data are coded and documented consistently across countries and over time to facillitate comparative research. IPUMS-International makes these data available to qualified researchers free of charge through a web dissemination system. The IPUMS project is a collaboration of the Minnesota Population Center, National Statistical Offices, and international data archives. Major funding is provided by the U.S. National Science Foundation and the Demographic and Behavioral Sciences Branch of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Additional support is provided by the University of Minnesota Office of the Vice President for Research, the Minnesota Population Center, and Sun Microsystems.

Historical chart and dataset showing West Bank and Gaza population density by year from 1990 to 2021.