Capital
Nouméa
Region
Oceania
Population
264,596
Area (km²)
18,575
New Caledonia, a French overseas territory in Oceania, spans 18,575 km² of Pacific islands renowned for their biodiversity, lagoons, and nickel reserves—the world's largest. With a population of about 264,596 and capital in Nouméa, it boasts a diverse culture blending Melanesian, European, and Asian influences, though GDP data is not readily available due to its status. Ongoing debates over independence from France add a layer of political intrigue to this tropical paradise.
New Caledonia exhibits a remarkably high GDP per capita, placing it firmly in the high-income bracket globally. This figure ($33,701.89) is comparable to many developed European nations, which is unusual for an island territory with a population under 300,000.
Despite the high GDP per capita and positive economic growth (2.8%), New Caledonia faces a substantial structural challenge with high unemployment. The rate of 10.939% indicates that economic prosperity is not evenly distributed across the workforce.
New Caledonia has achieved 100% access to electricity for its population. This is a significant infrastructure achievement, ensuring that all residents, including those in rural areas, benefit from modern energy services, a metric often challenging for island nations.
Over two-thirds (67.752%) of New Caledonia's population resides in urban areas, primarily around the capital, Nouméa. This high concentration suggests significant pressure on urban infrastructure and potential regional development disparities compared to the less populated islands.
GDP (Current US$)
$9.77B
Year: 2023
GDP Per Capita
$33,701.89
GDP Growth (%)
2.8%
Inflation (%)
N/A%
Unemployment (%)
10.94%
Debt to GDP (%)
N/A%
Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025
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