Palau
Republic of Palau
Current Population (Live)
Annual Growth Rate: -0.18%
As a microstate in Micronesia, Palau is home to just 17.7k people, making it one of the less populous countries in the world. Despite covering only 459 km², the territory records a density of 39 people per km². Its capital is Ngerulmud, and official languages include English and Palauan, while the United States dollar serves as the national currency.
Population
17,695
Area
459 km²
Density
39/km²
World Rank
#225
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. Deaths (11.5 per thousand) now equal or exceed births (10.9 per thousand), resulting in natural population decline. The age distribution is relatively balanced, with 18.2% of residents under 15 and 11.3% over 65.
General Information
- Capital
- Ngerulmud
- Region
- Oceania
- Subregion
- Micronesia
- Continent
- Oceania
- Languages
- English, Palauan
- Currencies
- United States dollar ($)
- Calling Code
- +680
- Top-Level Domain
- .pw
- Landlocked
- No
- UN Member
- Yes
- Timezones
- UTC+09:00
Population Details
- Total Population
- 17,695
- Land Area
- 459 km²
- Population Density
- 39 per km²
- Annual Growth Rate
- -0.18%
- Annual Growth
- -32 people
- Daily Growth
- -0 people
- World Population Share
- 0.00%
- Coordinates
- 7.50°, 134.50°
Global Population Share
Demographics & Economy
With a GDP per capita of roughly $15.6k, Palau sits comfortably in the high-income bracket by World Bank standards.
Life Expectancy
69.3 years
GDP per Capita
$15,611
Birth Rate
10.9 per 1,000
Death Rate
11.5 per 1,000
Urban Population
79.2%
Fertility Rate
1.91 births/woman
Infant Mortality
19.1 per 1,000
Literacy Rate
100.0%
Internet Users
27.0%
Under 15
18.2%
Over 65
11.3%
Health Spending
10.8% GDP
Age Distribution
0-14 years
3K
15-64 years
12K
65+ years
2K
Urbanization
Urbanization is well advanced, with roughly 79.2% of the population residing in towns and cities, above the global mean of 56%. Ngerulmud serves as the administrative heart of the country and concentrates much of its commercial and civic life. Net emigration of 16.0 per thousand is thinning rural areas in particular, accelerating the concentration of population in cities.
14,016
79.2%
3,679
20.8%
Health & Education Indicators
Average life expectancy of 69.3 years is roughly in line with the global benchmark of 72.8. Infant mortality stands at 19.1 per thousand live births, somewhat higher than the global average. Near-universal literacy (100%) provides a strong foundation for workforce development and civic participation.
Life Expectancy
World avg: 72.8
Fertility Rate
World avg: 2.3
Infant Mortality
World avg: 27.5
Literacy Rate
World avg: 86.7
Internet Users
World avg: 63
Population Projections (2026-2050)
If current trends persist, Palau's population will continue to shrink, intensifying labor shortages and increasing the burden on pension and healthcare systems. As a United Nations member state, Palau participates in global discussions on sustainable development that will shape its demographic future.
| Year | Projected Population |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 17,695 |
| 2030 | 17,567 |
| 2035 | 17,406 |
| 2040 | 17,245 |
| 2045 | 17,083 |
| 2050 | 16,922 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of Palau?
The population of Palau is approximately 17,695 as of 2026, making it #225 in the world by population.
What is the capital of Palau?
The capital of Palau is Ngerulmud.
What languages are spoken in Palau?
The main languages spoken in Palau are English, Palauan.
How big is Palau?
Palau covers an area of 459 km² with a population density of 39 people per km².
Is Palau growing or shrinking?
Palau's population is declining at a rate of -0.18% per year.
What is the life expectancy in Palau?
The average life expectancy in Palau is 69.3 years.
What is the GDP per capita of Palau?
The GDP per capita of Palau is $15,611.