People of Armenia

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People of Armenia

As of October 1, 2024, Armenia’s resident population stands at approximately 3.067 million people. The capital, Yerevan, is by far the most densely populated area, home to around 1.136 million residents — more than a third of the country’s population.

Yet, answering the question “How many Armenians are there?” is not as straightforward as it may seem. Millions of ethnic Armenians have long since left their ancestral homeland, forming a widespread and vibrant diaspora that spans the globe.

It is estimated that around 3 million Armenians reside in the former Soviet republics, primarily in Russia. Another 1.5 million live across North and South America, with about 1 million scattered across Europe, and roughly half a million residing in the Middle East and Africa. In fact, Armenia is among those rare countries where the majority of its people live outside its borders, bound by memory, heritage, and enduring cultural ties.

Despite the scale of its global diaspora, Armenia itself remains a predominantly monoethnic nation. According to the latest figures:

  • 93.3% of residents are ethnic Armenians

  • 1.5% are Russians

  • 1.7% are Kurds

  • The remaining 3.5% includes Assyrians, Greeks, and other minority groups

Armenians are deeply spiritual, and religion remains an essential thread in the fabric of their national identity. Over 92.6% of the population adheres to the Armenian Apostolic Church, one of the world’s oldest Christian denominations. Evangelical Christians, primarily Baptists and some Pentecostals, form the second-largest religious group.

Through the centuries, Armenians have preserved not only their cultural heritage but also distinct physical and personal traits passed down from generation to generation. Those with a keen eye will recognize certain shared features: men and women of medium to tall height, strong builds, olive-toned skin, broad foreheads, and often prominent noses, sometimes with a characteristic curve. Dark, coal-black hair, large expressive brown eyes, long lashes, and thick—often naturally fused—eyebrows complete the classic Armenian look.

But it is character, not just appearance, that defines a people. Armenians are known for their industriousness, intelligence, and boundless energy. Centuries of struggle for national survival and independence have instilled in them a fierce solidarity, a sense of loyalty, and a readiness to help one another in times of need.

There is a deep-rooted respect for education and craftsmanship, a love of family, and an innate talent for music and humor. Armenians are passionate by nature — quick to react, but equally quick to forgive — with an open-hearted hospitality that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler.

Above all, their devotion to their families and especially their children is profound and unwavering.