French Polynesia
French Polynesia
Current Population (Live)
Annual Growth Rate: +0.88%
Situated in Polynesia, French Polynesia has a population of approximately 279.5k—a modestly sized nation in population terms. The country extends across 4,167 km², translating to a density of 67 people per km². Its capital is Papeetē, and French is the official language, while the CFP franc serves as the national currency.
Population
279,500
Area
4,167 km²
Density
67/km²
World Rank
#185
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 10.9 per thousand against deaths at 3.6 per thousand, yielding a moderate natural surplus. The age distribution is relatively balanced, with 19.1% of residents under 15 and 11.3% over 65.
General Information
- Capital
- Papeetē
- Region
- Oceania
- Subregion
- Polynesia
- Continent
- Oceania
- Languages
- French
- Currencies
- CFP franc (₣)
- Calling Code
- +689
- Top-Level Domain
- .pf
- Landlocked
- No
- UN Member
- No
- Timezones
- UTC-10:00, UTC-09:30, UTC-09:00
Population Details
- Total Population
- 279,500
- Land Area
- 4,167 km²
- Population Density
- 67 per km²
- Annual Growth Rate
- +0.88%
- Annual Growth
- +2,460 people
- Daily Growth
- +7 people
- World Population Share
- 0.00%
- Coordinates
- -17.68°, -149.41°
Global Population Share
Demographics & Economy
With a GDP per capita of roughly $22.4k, French Polynesia sits comfortably in the high-income bracket by World Bank standards. Unemployment sits at 11.7%, well above the global average of 5.8%.
Life Expectancy
84.1 years
GDP per Capita
$22,440
Birth Rate
10.9 per 1,000
Death Rate
3.6 per 1,000
Urban Population
61.7%
Fertility Rate
1.50 births/woman
Unemployment
11.7%
Internet Users
72.7%
Under 15
19.1%
Over 65
11.3%
Age Distribution
0-14 years
53K
15-64 years
194K
65+ years
32K
Urbanization
About 61.7% of the population is urban, indicating a society in the midst of a rural-to-urban transition. Papeetē serves as the administrative heart of the country and concentrates much of its commercial and civic life. Net emigration of 1199.0 per thousand is thinning rural areas in particular, accelerating the concentration of population in cities.
172,507
61.7%
106,993
38.3%
Health & Education Indicators
Life expectancy reaches 84.1 years, ranking among the highest globally and reflecting robust healthcare systems and living standards. Internet penetration of 72.7% 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
Internet Users
World avg: 63
Population Projections (2026-2050)
Near-zero growth suggests that French Polynesia is entering a period of demographic stability—or, depending on policy responses, the early stages of decline. Below-replacement fertility of 1.5 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 | 279,500 |
| 2030 | 289,402 |
| 2035 | 302,133 |
| 2040 | 315,280 |
| 2045 | 328,872 |
| 2050 | 342,935 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of French Polynesia?
The population of French Polynesia is approximately 279,500 as of 2026, making it #185 in the world by population.
What is the capital of French Polynesia?
The capital of French Polynesia is Papeetē.
What languages are spoken in French Polynesia?
The main languages spoken in French Polynesia are French.
How big is French Polynesia?
French Polynesia covers an area of 4,167 km² with a population density of 67 people per km².
Is French Polynesia growing or shrinking?
French Polynesia is growing at a rate of 0.88% per year, adding approximately 2,460 people annually.
What is the life expectancy in French Polynesia?
The average life expectancy in French Polynesia is 84.1 years.
What is the GDP per capita of French Polynesia?
The GDP per capita of French Polynesia is $22,440.