French Polynesia has experienced modest population growth over recent decades. As of 2023, its estimated population is around 305,000, with the majority residing on the island of Tahiti, particularly in and around the capital city, Papeete. The population growth rate has slowed compared to previous decades, reflecting trends such as declining birth rates and increasing emigration, particularly among younger residents seeking education and employment opportunities abroad. Despite these factors, the population has continued to grow slightly, supported by natural increase, though at a much lower rate than in the mid-20th century. This gradual growth presents both opportunities and challenges for the territory, especially in terms of economic development, infrastructure, and the preservation of its unique cultural and environmental heritage.
| Year | Population | Population Density Per Square KM |
|---|---|---|
| 1950 | 62,100 | 16.2 |
| 1955 | 71,900 | 18.8 |
| 1960 | 81,100 | 21.2 |
| 1965 | 94,717 | 24.7 |
| 1970 | 114,000 | 29.8 |
| 1975 | 133,100 | 34.8 |
| 1980 | 150,896 | 39.4 |
| 1985 | 175,409 | 45.8 |
| 1990 | 199,524 | 52.1 |
| 1995 | 216,845 | 56.7 |
| 2000 | 235,866 | 61.6 |
| 2005 | 253,764 | 66.3 |
| 2010 | 268,808 | 70.2 |
| 2015 | 282,554 | 73.8 |
| 2020 | 294,891 | 77.1 |
| 2022 | 299,356 | 78.2 |
| 2023 | 301,488 | 78.8 |
| 2024 | 303,540 | 79.3 |
| 2025 | 305,507 | 79.8 |
| 2030 | 314,150 | 82.1 |
| 2035 | 320,833 | 83.8 |
| 2040 | 325,697 | 85.1 |
| 2045 | 328,816 | 85.9 |
| 2050 | 330,218 | 86.3 |
| 2055 | 329,897 | 86.2 |
| 2060 | 327,966 | 85.7 |
| 2065 | 324,703 | 84.8 |
| 2070 | 320,339 | 83.7 |
| 2075 | 314,999 | 82.3 |
| 2080 | 308,777 | 80.7 |
| 2085 | 301,867 | 78.9 |
| 2090 | 294,628 | 77 |
| 2095 | 287,422 | 75.1 |
| 2100 | 280,382 | 73.3 |
Data from US Census International Database