As of 2025, the core Jewish population worldwide-those who primarily identify as Jewish-is estimated at approximately 15.8 million people. Israel has the largest Jewish population with about 7.2 million Jews, followed by the United States with around 6.3 million. Other countries with significant Jewish populations include France (around 440,000), Canada (398,000), and the United Kingdom (312,000)
. If broader definitions are used, including those who are partly Jewish or have Jewish backgrounds (the "connected" Jewish population), the number rises to about 18 million. Expanding further to include those with Jewish ancestry but no Jewish parents and non-Jewish household members living with Jews (the "enlarged" Jewish population), the total reaches approximately 21 million. Counting all individuals eligible for Israeli citizenship under the Law of Return brings the total to about 25.5 million
. In summary:
- Core Jewish population: ~15.8 million
- Connected Jewish population (partly Jewish): ~18 million
- Enlarged Jewish population (including ancestry and households): ~21 million
- Total eligible for Israeli citizenship (Law of Return): ~25.5 million
The Jewish population is primarily concentrated in Israel and the United States, which together account for about 81% of those recognized as Jews or with sufficient Jewish ancestry for Israeli citizenship
