The world has various countries with unique characteristics, cultures, and populations. However, some countries stand out for their exceptionally low population numbers. These countries offer a unique perspective on life, culture, and development. Let’s delve into the world’s least populated countries and explore the factors influencing their population numbers, and the challenges and opportunities they face. 

Top 15 Countries with Lowest Population

• Vatican City
• Tuvalu
• Nauru
• Palau
• San Marino
• Monaco
• Liechtenstein
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Dominica
• Andorra
• Tonga
• Seychelles
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Micronesia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

1- Vatican City

Vatican City, the smallest internationally recognized independent state in the world, has the lowest population of just 764 as of 2024. Due to Vatican City’s special status as a spiritual state under the jurisdiction of the Holy See, the majority of its citizens are Catholic clergy and religious adherents, with a minor number of laypeople working for the government.

The strict requirements for citizenship, which require papal approval, further limit the potential for new settlers to join the population. People who live inside Vatican City’s walls are naturally limited by the city’s small physical area of 49 hectares (121 acres).

It is one of the world’s most densely populated countries due to its extremely high population density—more than 1,700 people per square kilometer. The opportunities and challenges facing Vatican City’s population are equally unique

The city-state’s status as the spiritual and administrative center of the Catholic Church provides a sense of purpose and community for its residents, who are deeply connected to the religious and cultural significance of the Vatican. 

However, the limited space and strict requirements for citizenship pose significant barriers to growth, making it unlikely that the population will expand significantly in the foreseeable future. 

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2- Tuvalu

Tuvalu, a small island nation in the Pacific Ocean, has one of the lowest populations globally, with approximately 10,679 people estimated in 2024. The factors contributing to this low population include the limited land area of the country, which consists of nine coral atolls covering just 26 square kilometers. 

This geographical constraint naturally restricts the capacity for a larger population to reside in Tuvalu. The remote location of the islands, situated about halfway between Hawaii and Australia, poses challenges for attracting new settlers.

Opportunities for new settlers in Tuvalu are limited due to the country’s focus on preserving its unique culture and identity. The predominant religion in Tuvalu is Protestantism, with a strong adherence to the Church of Tuvalu.

While the country faces challenges such as a high age dependency ratio and limited infrastructure, including only one airport and a small number of highways, Tuvaluans value their lifestyle, culture, and identity, which often outweigh the appeal of migration to other countries.

3- Nauru

Nauru is another small island country in the Pacific Ocean. The country has one of the lowest populations globally, with approximately 11,680 people as of 2024. The factors contributing to this low population include the limited land area of Nauru, which spans just 21 square kilometers.

The country’s remote location and lack of significant economic opportunities also influence its population size. Opportunities for new settlers in Nauru are limited due to the country’s economic reliance on industries like phosphate mining, which has faced challenges in recent years.

The population’s strong cultural identity, with a predominant Protestant religion and a distinct Nauruan language, contributes to a sense of community and belonging among residents. However, the lack of formal commercial or retail lending services on the island poses challenges for economic growth and development.

The closure of the Nauru Regional Processing Center in 2020, which was a significant source of income for the government, highlights the economic vulnerabilities faced by the nation in current times.

4- Palau

Palau has a relatively low population of around 16,733 as of 2024. The country’s limited land area, which spans 459 square kilometers, makes it geographically isolated. Palau’s demographic composition is diverse, with Palauans being the majority, followed by Carolinians, Asians, and other ethnic groups.

The economic structure of Palau is influenced by industries such as tourism and fishing, which in turn contributes to the opportunities available to new residents. The nation’s natural beauty and rich marine biodiversity offer potential for economic growth and development. 

The limited availability of land and the need to balance economic growth with environmental conservation pose challenges for sustainable development in Palau.

Despite these obstacles, Palauans are committed to preserving their cultural heritage and natural environment while exploring avenues for economic growth and sustainable development. 

5- San Marino

San Marino, the world’s oldest republic, has a low population of approximately 33,889 residents as of 2024. The factors contributing to this low population include the country’s land area of just 61 square kilometers.

Geographically, San Marino is an enclave in central Italy, which adds to its unique status and influences its population size. The primary language spoken in San Marino is Italian, reflecting its cultural ties to Italy.

The nation’s high urban population rate of 97.8% indicates a well-developed infrastructure and quality of life, which may attract individuals seeking a peaceful and secure environment. 

San Marino faces unique opportunities and challenges due to its small population size. The country’s high life expectancy, at 85.417 years, reflects the quality of healthcare and lifestyle in San Marino. 

6- Monaco

Monaco, a tiny principality located on the French Riviera, has a population of approximately 39,050 residents as of 2024. The country’s limited land area is just 2 square kilometers.

The primary language spoken in Monaco is French, which reflects its cultural ties to France. The country’s economy is based on industries like tourism, banking, and the gambling industry.

The nation’s high standard of living, with a GDP per capita of $234,317, makes it the highest in the world and attracts wealthy individuals and entrepreneurs. However, the cost of living and operating a business in Monaco is high, and the market is competitive.

7- Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein is a small country nestled in the heart of Europe. The country has a population of approximately 39,724 residents as of 2024. The country’s land area is just 160 square kilometers.

Geographically, Liechtenstein is surrounded by Switzerland and Austria. The primary language spoken in Liechtenstein is German which reflects its cultural ties to the surrounding countries.

The nation’s high standard of living, with a GDP per capita of $184,083, makes it one of the richest countries in the world. However, the cost of living and operating a business in Liechtenstein is very high.

The limited space and high cost of living in Liechtenstein make it challenging for outsiders to integrate into the community.

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8- Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Kitts and Nevis, a small island nation in the Caribbean, has a population of approximately 47,195 residents as of 2024. Its country’s land area is also limited, spanning 261 square kilometers.

The nation’s high GDP per capita of $18,082 makes it one of the richest countries in the Caribbean. The country’s strong economy and high standard of living attract new businesses and individuals seeking a luxurious lifestyle.

Saint Kitts and Nevis’s residents are proud of their heritage and the country’s status as a hub of luxury and wealth, which shapes their identity and sense of community.

9- Dominica

Dominica is a small nation in the Caribbean, with a land area of just 751 square kilometers. The Country has a population of approximately 67,408 residents as of 2024.

Dominica is a tropical island nation that attracts visitors and those looking for a warm environment due to its geographic location. The nation’s GDP per capita of $9,356 makes it one of the developing countries in the Caribbean. 

Dominica’s low population is a product of its unique geographical and economic circumstances. The country’s small size and steady economy make it an attractive destination but also pose challenges.

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10- Andorra

Andorra, situated in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain, has a population of 83,523 residents as of 2024. The country’s size is 468 square kilometers which limits its population growth. The country’s official language is Catalan.

Andorra’s GDP per capita is $44,107 but the cost of living in Andorra is relatively high, and the market poses challenges for people looking to establish themselves in the country.

The country’s status as a wealthy international commercial center, with a mature banking sector and low taxes, also attracts foreign investment and business ventures. 

The nation’s special relationship with the European Union, despite not being a member, provides economic benefits and trade agreements. 

However, the country’s heavy reliance on tourism, particularly skiing, has made it vulnerable to economic downturns, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic or the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.  

11- Tonga

Tonga, a beautiful country in the South Pacific, has a relatively low population of around 100,179 people as of 2024. The country’s limited land area of 720 square kilometers is spread across numerous islands.

Geographically, Tonga’s remote location and scattered islands present challenges for accommodating a denser population. The official language, Tongan, reflects the cultural heritage of Polynesian roots. 

The nation’s economy relies on sectors like agriculture, fishing, and tourism. The GDP per capita of $5,488 attracts individuals seeking a peaceful island lifestyle and business prospects.

Tonga’s vulnerability to natural disasters, such as cyclones and rising sea levels due to climate change, poses significant challenges for sustainable development and long-term growth. 

12- Seychelles

Seychelles has a population of 100,447 residents as of 2024. The country’s land area of 455 square kilometers spread across 155 islands.

The official languages are Seychellois Creole, English, and French, and the GDP per capita is $20,890.  

In recent times, Seychelles has made significant investments in social welfare services, offering free primary healthcare and education up to the post-secondary level. This has enabled the country to achieve a high human development index score, among the highest in Africa.

13- Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda, a stunning twin-island nation in the Caribbean, has a population of around 100,772 people as of 2024 with a land area of 440 square kilometers. The official language is English with a GDP per capita of $19,068.

Antigua and Barbuda’s vulnerability to natural disasters such as hurricanes poses challenges and the aging population with a total dependency ratio of 41.174%, puts pressure on social services and healthcare infrastructure. 

14- Micronesia

Micronesia has a population of 105,764 residents as of 2024. The country’s scattered islands and limited land area cover 702 square kilometers. 

The official languages spoken in Micronesia are English, Chuukese, Kosraean, Pohnpeian, and Yapese, and the nation’s economy relies on sectors like tourism, fishing, and agriculture. The GDP per capita of Micronesia is $4,358.

15- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

As of 2024, the stunning Caribbean island nation of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is home to about 110,872 people with a land area of 389 square kilometers. 

The economy of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines relies on sectors like tourism, agriculture, and financial services with a GDP per capita of $9,360.

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Conclusion 

The countries with the lowest population, from Vatican City to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines face unique challenges and opportunities due to their small populations. These countries offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and economic potential, but also face challenges related to economic growth, income inequality, workforce, and healthcare access. 

Despite these challenges, these countries continue to attract tourists and expatriates seeking a unique lifestyle. These countries have prospects for growth and prosperity despite the limitations provided by their small populations, due to the government’s focus on sustainable development and economic diversification.

FAQs

1- Which Country has the Lowest Population in the World in 2024?

Vatican City, the smallest internationally recognized independent state in the world, has the lowest population of just 764 as of 2024. 

2- What is the Population of the World in 2024?

The population of the world in 2024 is 8,118,835,999. 

3- Which Country has More Females than Males?

One of the nations with an enormous population of women is Russia.

4- Which Continent is the Fastest Growing?

Out of all the primary regions, Africa has the fastest pace of population growth.