Palau, an island country in the western Pacific Ocean, has experienced relatively slow population growth over recent decades. With a population estimated at around 18,000 in 2023, Palau’s growth rate remains low, often fluctuating due to emigration and limited natural increase. Factors such as a small land area, limited economic opportunities, and outward migration—particularly to the United States under the Compact of Free Association—have contributed to this modest growth. Additionally, Palau’s birth rate is low compared to global averages, and the nation faces challenges like an aging population. Overall, Palau’s population growth is characterized by stability rather than rapid expansion, reflecting the unique demographic and economic circumstances of small island nations.
Year | Population | Population Density Per Square KM |
---|---|---|
1950 | 7,251 | 15.8 |
1955 | 8,292 | 18.1 |
1960 | 9,482 | 20.7 |
1965 | 10,844 | 23.6 |
1970 | 12,005 | 26.2 |
1975 | 12,838 | 28 |
1980 | 13,311 | 29 |
1985 | 13,804 | 30.1 |
1990 | 15,207 | 33.1 |
1995 | 17,302 | 37.7 |
2000 | 19,489 | 42.5 |
2005 | 20,314 | 44.3 |
2010 | 20,840 | 45.4 |
2015 | 21,159 | 46.1 |
2020 | 21,532 | 46.9 |
2022 | 21,695 | 47.3 |
2023 | 21,779 | 47.4 |
2024 | 21,864 | 47.6 |
2025 | 21,947 | 47.8 |
2030 | 22,341 | 48.7 |
2035 | 22,628 | 49.3 |
2040 | 22,730 | 49.5 |
2045 | 22,662 | 49.4 |
2050 | 22,478 | 49 |
2055 | 22,233 | 48.4 |
2060 | 21,987 | 47.9 |
2065 | 21,767 | 47.4 |
2070 | 21,563 | 47 |
2075 | 21,335 | 46.5 |
2080 | 21,037 | 45.8 |
2085 | 20,671 | 45 |
2090 | 20,261 | 44.1 |
2095 | 19,845 | 43.2 |
2100 | 19,447 | 42.4 |
Data from US Census International Database