New Caledonia
New Caledonia
Current Population (Live)
Annual Growth Rate: +0.88%
Situated in Melanesia, New Caledonia has a population of approximately 264.6k—a modestly sized nation in population terms. The country extends across 18,575 km², translating to a density of 14 people per km². Its capital is Nouméa, and French is the official language, while the CFP franc serves as the national currency.
Population
264,596
Area
18,575 km²
Density
14/km²
World Rank
#187
Population Trend (1960-2050)
Historical data from 1960 to present with projections to 2050.
Annual Growth Rate by Period
Population growth has effectively stalled at 0% annually, suggesting the country is approaching or has reached a demographic plateau. Births occur at 14.3 per thousand against deaths at 6.3 per thousand, yielding a moderate natural surplus. The age distribution is relatively balanced, with 21.3% of residents under 15 and 11.4% over 65.
General Information
- Capital
- Nouméa
- Region
- Oceania
- Subregion
- Melanesia
- Continent
- Oceania
- Languages
- French
- Currencies
- CFP franc (₣)
- Calling Code
- +687
- Top-Level Domain
- .nc
- Landlocked
- No
- UN Member
- No
- Timezones
- UTC+11:00
Population Details
- Total Population
- 264,596
- Land Area
- 18,575 km²
- Population Density
- 14 per km²
- Annual Growth Rate
- +0.88%
- Annual Growth
- +2,328 people
- Daily Growth
- +6 people
- World Population Share
- 0.00%
- Coordinates
- -21.50°, 165.50°
Global Population Share
Demographics & Economy
With a GDP per capita of roughly $29.2k, New Caledonia sits comfortably in the high-income bracket by World Bank standards. Unemployment sits at 11.2%, well above the global average of 5.8%.
Life Expectancy
78.8 years
GDP per Capita
$29,213
Birth Rate
14.3 per 1,000
Death Rate
6.3 per 1,000
Urban Population
68.0%
Fertility Rate
1.98 births/woman
Unemployment
11.2%
Literacy Rate
96.1%
Internet Users
82.0%
Under 15
21.3%
Over 65
11.4%
Age Distribution
0-14 years
56K
15-64 years
178K
65+ years
30K
Urbanization
Urbanization is well advanced, with roughly 68% of the population residing in towns and cities, above the global mean of 56%. Nouméa serves as the administrative heart of the country and concentrates much of its commercial and civic life. Net inward migration of 440.0 per thousand is contributing to urban growth and reshaping community demographics.
179,793
68.0%
84,803
32.0%
Health & Education Indicators
Average life expectancy of 78.8 years is roughly in line with the global benchmark of 72.8. The literacy rate of 96.1% is roughly in line with the world average, reflecting the current state of educational investment. Internet penetration of 82% is above 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)
Near-zero growth suggests that New Caledonia is entering a period of demographic stability—or, depending on policy responses, the early stages of decline. Below-replacement fertility of 2.0 births per woman means natural growth alone cannot sustain the current population level indefinitely. The territory's governance arrangements will influence how effectively it adapts to evolving population dynamics.
| Year | Projected Population |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 264,596 |
| 2030 | 273,970 |
| 2035 | 286,022 |
| 2040 | 298,468 |
| 2045 | 311,336 |
| 2050 | 324,649 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of New Caledonia?
The population of New Caledonia is approximately 264,596 as of 2026, making it #187 in the world by population.
What is the capital of New Caledonia?
The capital of New Caledonia is Nouméa.
What languages are spoken in New Caledonia?
The main languages spoken in New Caledonia are French.
How big is New Caledonia?
New Caledonia covers an area of 18,575 km² with a population density of 14 people per km².
Is New Caledonia growing or shrinking?
New Caledonia is growing at a rate of 0.88% per year, adding approximately 2,328 people annually.
What is the life expectancy in New Caledonia?
The average life expectancy in New Caledonia is 78.8 years.
What is the GDP per capita of New Caledonia?
The GDP per capita of New Caledonia is $29,213.