Exploring Antigua And Barbuda's Population Density

Antigua and Barbuda is a small country in the Caribbean Sea, consisting of two main islands and several smaller islands. As of 2024, the country's population is estimated to be between 93,772 and 94,851, with a density of around 211-213 people per square kilometre. This figure has remained relatively stable since 2008, but it is projected to increase steadily into the 21st century, with an estimated population of 115,000 by 2050.

Population density in 2021

Antigua and Barbuda is a small country in the Caribbean, consisting of two main islands—Antigua and Barbuda—and several smaller islands. In 2021, the population density of Antigua and Barbuda was around 211.86 inhabitants per square kilometre, with a total population of about 93,219 people. This figure represents a slight increase from previous years and is the highest population density the country has experienced in the observed period.

The island of Antigua is the more populous of the two main islands, with approximately 82,000 residents, while the capital city of St. John's has a population of nearly 25,000. On the other hand, the island of Barbuda has a much smaller population, with nearly the entire population living in the town of Codrington.

The population of Antigua and Barbuda is predominantly of African and Caribbean descent, with 91% of the population identifying as Black or Mixed race. The country has a median age of 35.9 years and an adult literacy rate of approximately 99%. The population is also largely urban, with 28.3% living in urban areas as of 2021.

The country's economy relies heavily on tourism, which accounts for 80% of its GDP. However, it is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as sea-level rise and extreme weather events. Despite these challenges, the population of Antigua and Barbuda is projected to continue its steady growth into the future, with estimates suggesting a population of around 115,000 by 2050.

Population growth rate

The population of Antigua and Barbuda has been growing steadily for decades and is projected to continue this growth into the 21st century. The current population of the country is between 93,772 and 94,851, with a population density of 211.86 to 213 people per square kilometre. This is a notable increase from the 2011 census, which put the population at 86,295. The population growth rate was estimated to be 1.17% in 2021.

The population of Antigua and Barbuda is expected to reach around 115,000 by 2050. This growth is reflected in the country's median age of 35.9 years, with a large proportion of the population in the 25-54 age bracket. The island of Antigua is home to approximately 97% of the population, with the capital, St John's, hosting a population of nearly 25,000.

The population of Antigua and Barbuda is diverse, with the majority being of West African, British, and Madeiran descent. The ethnic distribution is 91% Black or Mulatto, 4.4% mixed race, 1.7-1.9% white, and 2.9% other (mostly East Indian and Asian). The population also includes a small number of Christian Levantine Arabs, Sephardic Jews, and people from the Middle East and China.

A significant portion of the country's population resides abroad, particularly in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. It is estimated that about 4,500 Americans live in Antigua and Barbuda, one of the largest American populations in the English-speaking Eastern Caribbean.

Population distribution

The population of Antigua and Barbuda is distributed across two main islands—Antigua and Barbuda—and several smaller islands, including Great Bird, Green, Guiana, Long, Maiden, Prickly Pear, York, and Redonda. The country's permanent population is approximately 97,120 as of 2019 estimates, with around 97% residing in Antigua. The capital, St. John's, is located on Antigua Island and is the country's largest city and port, with a population of about 25,000. Codrington, Barbuda's largest town, is home to nearly the entire population of Barbuda.

The island of Antigua, with about 82,000 residents, is the more populous of the two main islands. The distribution of the population within Antigua is uneven, with the majority concentrated in the capital, St. John's, and other major cities such as All Saints, Piggotts, and Liberta.

In contrast, the island of Barbuda has a much smaller population, with nearly all residents living in Codrington. Barbuda has a more even distribution of its residents, as it is a smaller island with a less concentrated urban centre.

The population of Antigua and Barbuda is also distributed across various ethnic and racial groups. The majority of the population is of West African, British, or Madeiran descent, with smaller groups of Christian Levantine Arabs, Asians, and Sephardic Jews. The ethnic distribution is estimated to be 91% Mulatto or Black, 4.4% mixed race, 1.7% white, and 2.9% other, which primarily includes East Indians and Asians.

Additionally, there is a significant portion of the population that lives abroad, particularly in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. It is estimated that about 4,500 Americans reside in Antigua and Barbuda, making it one of the largest American populations in the English-speaking Eastern Caribbean.

The population distribution in Antigua and Barbuda is also reflected in the country's demographics, with a median age of 35.9 years and an urban population of about 28.3%. The country's population is projected to continue its steady growth into the future, with estimates placing the population at around 115,000 by 2050.

Urban vs. rural population

The population density of Antigua and Barbuda was 211.86 inhabitants per square kilometre in 2021, and this figure remained nearly unchanged in 2024 at 213 per Km2 (552 people per square mile). The overall population of the country is 93,772 people, with 28.3% living in urban areas (26,559 people) and the remaining 71.7% living in rural areas (67,213 people).

Urban Population

The urban population of Antigua and Barbuda was 26,559 in 2024, accounting for nearly 28.3% of the country's total population. This urban population benefits from the amenities and opportunities that come with living in more developed areas, such as better access to education, healthcare, and employment. The urban centres in Antigua and Barbuda offer a range of economic activities, including tourism, trade, and services. The capital city of St. John's, located on Antigua, is the most significant urban centre, with a population of over 22,000 people. It serves as the country's economic and administrative hub, offering a wide range of urban amenities and services.

Rural Population

In contrast, the rural population of Antigua and Barbuda stood at 67,213 in 2024, making up the majority of the country's population. Rural areas in Antigua and Barbuda are often less densely populated and may include small towns, villages, or agricultural communities. These areas are known for their natural beauty, with many residents engaging in agricultural activities, fishing, or eco-tourism ventures. The rural population has access to more limited infrastructure and services compared to their urban counterparts, but they often enjoy a strong sense of community and connection to the natural environment.

Population Density

The population density of Antigua and Barbuda, calculated by dividing the total population by the total land area, is relatively low compared to other countries. With a total land area of 440 square kilometres (170 square miles), the country has ample space for its population to spread out. However, population density can vary significantly between urban and rural areas, with urban centres like St. John's having much higher population densities than rural villages or agricultural lands.

Implications for Development

The distribution of the population between urban and rural areas has implications for the country's development. A significant urban population can drive economic growth and innovation, with many job opportunities and businesses concentrated in urban centres. On the other hand, rural areas may face challenges such as limited access to services and infrastructure. Balancing the needs of both urban and rural populations is crucial for the country's overall development and well-being of its citizens.

Population by sex and age

The population of Antigua and Barbuda in 2023 was estimated to be approximately 94,000 inhabitants. The number of women exceeded the number of men by over 4,000. This difference is most pronounced in the 15-64 age group, where there were more than 34,680 women. The only age range where the male population exceeds that of women is the youngest group, from 0 to 14 years old.

The median age in Antigua and Barbuda is 35.9 years. 28.3% of the population is urban, which equates to 26,559 people in 2024. The total land area of the country is 440 square kilometres (170 square miles), giving it a population density of 213 people per square kilometre (552 people per square mile).

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