The rate of natural increase (RNI) in the Marshall Islands is relatively high compared to many developed countries, but it is moderate within its regional context. As of recent estimates, the Marshall Islands has an RNI of approximately 1.5% per year, reflecting a birth rate that significantly exceeds the death rate. When compared to neighboring countries, such as Kiribati and the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands’ RNI is similar—Kiribati’s RNI is slightly higher, around 1.7%, while the Federated States of Micronesia has an RNI closer to 1.3%. In contrast, more developed Pacific neighbors like Guam or New Caledonia have much lower RNIs, often below 1%. The similarities among the Marshall Islands, Kiribati, and Micronesia stem from comparable fertility rates and youthful population structures, but slight differences arise due to variations in health care, emigration rates, and socio-economic conditions. Overall, the Marshall Islands’ population growth through natural increase is moderate for the Pacific region, reflecting both regional trends and unique local factors.
Year | Rate of Natural Increase | Population |
---|---|---|
1990 | 3.358 | 45,828 |
1995 | 2.99 | 49,639 |
2000 | 2.961 | 53,066 |
2005 | 2.86 | 59,062 |
2010 | 2.533 | 65,768 |
2015 | 2.129 | 72,028 |
2020 | 1.862 | 77,741 |
2024 | 1.69 | 82,011 |
2025 | 1.644 | 83,037 |
2026 | 1.617 | 84,049 |
2030 | 1.499 | 88,030 |
2035 | 1.339 | 92,725 |
2040 | 1.164 | 96,929 |
2045 | 0.981 | 100,480 |
2050 | 0.821 | 103,319 |
2055 | 0.68 | 105,490 |
2060 | 0.544 | 107,001 |
2065 | 0.397 | 107,790 |
2070 | 0.243 | 107,774 |
2075 | 0.095 | 106,936 |
2080 | -0.04 | 105,337 |
2085 | -0.164 | 103,064 |
2090 | -0.293 | 100,168 |
2095 | -0.436 | 96,638 |
2100 | -0.583 | 92,479 |
Data from US Census International Database