American Samoa
American Samoa
Current Population (Live)
Annual Growth Rate: -1.60%
As a microstate in Polynesia, American Samoa is home to just 46.8k people, making it one of the less populous countries in the world. Despite covering only 199 km², the territory records a density of 235 people per km². Its capital is Pago Pago, and official languages include English and Samoan, while the United States dollar serves as the national currency.
Population
46,765
Area
199 km²
Density
235/km²
World Rank
#212
Population Trend (1960-2050)
Historical data from 1960 to present with projections to 2050.
Annual Growth Rate by Period
The population is currently contracting at a rate of -0% per year, pointing to deep structural challenges such as low birth rates and emigration. Births occur at 15.4 per thousand against deaths at 7 per thousand, yielding a moderate natural surplus. The age distribution is relatively balanced, with 27% of residents under 15 and 8% over 65.
General Information
- Capital
- Pago Pago
- Region
- Oceania
- Subregion
- Polynesia
- Continent
- Oceania
- Languages
- English, Samoan
- Currencies
- United States dollar ($)
- Calling Code
- +1684
- Top-Level Domain
- .as
- Landlocked
- No
- UN Member
- No
- Timezones
- UTC-11:00
Population Details
- Total Population
- 46,765
- Land Area
- 199 km²
- Population Density
- 235 per km²
- Annual Growth Rate
- -1.60%
- Annual Growth
- -748 people
- Daily Growth
- -2 people
- World Population Share
- 0.00%
- Coordinates
- -14.33°, -170.00°
Global Population Share
Demographics & Economy
With a GDP per capita of roughly $18k, American Samoa sits comfortably in the high-income bracket by World Bank standards.
Life Expectancy
72.8 years
GDP per Capita
$18,017
Birth Rate
15.4 per 1,000
Death Rate
7.0 per 1,000
Urban Population
80.9%
Fertility Rate
2.29 births/woman
Literacy Rate
97.3%
Internet Users
0.0%
Under 15
27.0%
Over 65
8.0%
Age Distribution
0-14 years
13K
15-64 years
30K
65+ years
4K
Urbanization
Urbanization is well advanced, with roughly 80.9% of the population residing in towns and cities, above the global mean of 56%. Pago Pago serves as the administrative heart of the country and concentrates much of its commercial and civic life. Net emigration of 1051.0 per thousand is thinning rural areas in particular, accelerating the concentration of population in cities.
37,852
80.9%
8,913
19.1%
Health & Education Indicators
Average life expectancy of 72.8 years is roughly in line with the global benchmark of 72.8. The literacy rate of 97.3% is roughly in line with the world average, reflecting the current state of educational investment. Internet penetration of 0% is well below the global average, influencing access to information, education, and digital services.
Life Expectancy
World avg: 72.8
Fertility Rate
World avg: 2.3
Literacy Rate
World avg: 86.7
Internet Users
World avg: 63
Population Projections (2026-2050)
If current trends persist, American Samoa's population will continue to shrink, intensifying labor shortages and increasing the burden on pension and healthcare systems. The territory's governance arrangements will influence how effectively it adapts to evolving population dynamics.
| Year | Projected Population |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 46,765 |
| 2030 | 44,025 |
| 2035 | 41,169 |
| 2040 | 38,812 |
| 2045 | 36,845 |
| 2050 | 35,186 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of American Samoa?
The population of American Samoa is approximately 46,765 as of 2026, making it #212 in the world by population.
What is the capital of American Samoa?
The capital of American Samoa is Pago Pago.
What languages are spoken in American Samoa?
The main languages spoken in American Samoa are English, Samoan.
How big is American Samoa?
American Samoa covers an area of 199 km² with a population density of 235 people per km².
Is American Samoa growing or shrinking?
American Samoa's population is declining at a rate of -1.60% per year.
What is the life expectancy in American Samoa?
The average life expectancy in American Samoa is 72.8 years.
What is the GDP per capita of American Samoa?
The GDP per capita of American Samoa is $18,017.