Palau flag

Palau

Republic of Palau

Capital

Ngerulmud

Region

Oceania

Population

16,733

Area (km²)

459

💡Quick Summary

Palau is a small island nation in Oceania, consisting of over 300 islands in the western Pacific Ocean, with a total area of just 459 km² and a population of around 16,733. Its capital, Ngerulmud, is one of the world's least populous, and the country boasts stunning marine biodiversity, including UNESCO-listed Rock Islands and jellyfish lakes that draw eco-tourists. While GDP data is unavailable, Palau's economy thrives on tourism, fishing, and U.S. aid through its Compact of Free Association.

Key Insights

High Income Status Despite Small Scale

Palau exhibits a remarkably high GDP per capita, placing it firmly in the high-income category globally. This figure ($15,610) is significantly higher than many larger developing nations, driven primarily by tourism and foreign aid/compact funds.

Severe Inflation Challenge

The country is grappling with extremely high inflation, reaching 12.820% in 2023. This level of price increase poses a significant threat to the purchasing power and economic stability of its small population, likely exacerbated by global supply chain issues and high import dependency.

Near-Total Electrification Success

Palau has achieved universal access to electricity, with 100% of the population connected. This is a remarkable infrastructure achievement for a small, geographically dispersed island nation, indicating successful development planning and investment in utilities.

High Urbanization in a Small Nation

Despite its small land area and population, Palau is highly urbanized, with nearly 80% of its residents living in urban centers. This concentration suggests significant internal migration toward administrative or economic hubs, typical of small island states.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$276.73M

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$15,610.82

GDP Growth (%)

2.22%

Inflation (%)

12.82%

Unemployment (%)

N/A%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-14.00%-7.00%0.00%7.00%14.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
201420152016201720182019202020212022202304,5009,00013,50018,000
  • 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%0.3%0.5%0.8%1.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$4,500$9,000$13,500$18,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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