The Solomon Islands has a relatively high rate of natural increase (RNI) in its population, with recent estimates placing it at around 2.3% per year. This figure reflects a combination of a high birth rate and a moderate death rate, resulting in steady population growth. When compared to its neighboring countries, the Solomon Islands' RNI is higher than that of Fiji, which has an RNI of about 1.0%, and Vanuatu, which is around 2.0%. However, it is slightly lower than Papua New Guinea, where the RNI is approximately 2.5%. These differences are influenced by varying fertility rates, healthcare access, and social factors across the region. Overall, the Solomon Islands’ population is growing rapidly, contributing to challenges and opportunities in economic development, resource management, and social services, much like its Pacific neighbors but at a slightly different pace.
| Year | Rate of Natural Increase | Population |
|---|---|---|
| 1980 | 3.4 | 230,737 |
| 1985 | 3.306 | 272,773 |
| 1990 | 3.271 | 320,731 |
| 1995 | 3.196 | 374,235 |
| 2000 | 3.008 | 432,152 |
| 2005 | 2.73 | 493,138 |
| 2010 | 2.437 | 555,439 |
| 2015 | 2.164 | 617,418 |
| 2020 | 1.944 | 678,494 |
| 2024 | 1.802 | 726,799 |
| 2025 | 1.763 | 738,774 |
| 2026 | 1.733 | 750,708 |
| 2030 | 1.6 | 798,015 |
| 2035 | 1.433 | 855,336 |
| 2040 | 1.278 | 909,782 |
| 2045 | 1.125 | 960,552 |
| 2050 | 0.982 | 1,006,932 |
| 2055 | 0.85 | 1,048,559 |
| 2060 | 0.719 | 1,084,942 |
| 2065 | 0.591 | 1,115,506 |
| 2070 | 0.468 | 1,139,890 |
| 2075 | 0.35 | 1,157,925 |
| 2080 | 0.236 | 1,169,517 |
| 2085 | 0.123 | 1,174,569 |
| 2090 | 0.012 | 1,173,051 |
| 2095 | -0.094 | 1,165,207 |
| 2100 | -0.19 | 1,151,528 |
Data from US Census International Database