How many people died in Europe during the Black Death?

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Medieval illustration of Brotherhood of the Cross flagellants in robes and pointed hats walking in procession, some carrying a crucifix and banners, during the Black Death. — Black Death Flagellants in the Netherlands scourging themselves in atonement, believing that the Black Death is a punishment from God for their sins, 1349.

It is estimated that approximately 25 million people died in Europe during the Black Death pandemic between 1347 and 1351.1

Historical analysis suggests that mortality rates varied significantly by region, ranging from one-eighth to two-thirds of the local population. The French chronicler Jean Froissart estimated that about one-third of Europe's total population perished during the epidemic, a figure considered to be fairly accurate by many historians. The impact was so severe that the population of western Europe did not return to its pre-1348 levels until the beginning of the 16th century.1