Belize flag

Belize

Capital

Belmopan

Region

Americas

Population

417,634

Area (km²)

22,966

💡Quick Summary

Belize, a small Central American nation in the Americas region, boasts a population of around 417,634 across its 22,966 km² territory, with Belmopan serving as its capital. Known for its stunning Caribbean coastline and the world's second-largest barrier reef, it blends English-speaking culture with Mayan heritage and lush rainforests. While GDP data is unavailable here, the economy thrives on tourism, agriculture, and offshore services, making it a hidden gem for eco-adventurers.

Key Insights

Urbanization Lagging Regional Trends

Only 41.9% of Belize's population resides in urban areas. This is significantly lower than the average for the Americas region (typically above 80%), indicating a predominantly rural or small-town population distribution, which can impact infrastructure and service delivery planning.

Moderate Unemployment Challenge

The unemployment rate stands at 8.267%. While not critically high, this figure indicates that nearly one in twelve members of the labor force is actively seeking work, suggesting a persistent challenge in job creation, especially given the slow GDP growth.

Economic Slowdown and Inflation Pressure

While the GDP per capita is relatively moderate at $7,424, the economy is experiencing very slow growth (0.5%). Coupled with a significant inflation rate of 4.39%, real economic gains for the average citizen are likely being eroded, posing a challenge to living standards.

Balancing Fertility and Life Expectancy

Belize maintains a replacement-level fertility rate (2.01), which is common in more developed nations, yet it has a respectable life expectancy of 73.57 years. This demographic profile suggests a relatively stable population structure without the rapid aging seen in many countries with sub-replacement fertility.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$3.05B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$7,424.76

GDP Growth (%)

0.5%

Inflation (%)

4.39%

Unemployment (%)

8.27%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 1/23/2026

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-18.00%-9.00%0.00%9.00%18.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230150,000300,000450,000600,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%10.0%20.0%30.0%40.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$2,000$4,000$6,000$8,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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