Grenada Demographics

Grenada, a Caribbean nation in the Americas subregion, has a population of approximately 117,000 people. Recent data indicates a slow annual growth rate of 0.11 percent, placing it 187th globally in population size. With a land area of 344 km² (133 sq mi), the island maintains a high population density of 344.4 people per km² (892 per sq mi), ranking 9th in the Americas for density. The demographic landscape is characterized by a stable population size and a significant presence of individuals of African descent, who make up 82.4 percent of the citizenry.

The age profile of Grenada reflects a mature demographic, with a life expectancy at birth of 75.367 years, ranking 102nd globally. The latest records indicate a median age of 72.8 years, which reflects a highly advanced demographic transition compared to many of its regional neighbors in the Americas. This structure is supported by a healthcare system that has steadily improved outcomes over recent decades, although it presents long-term challenges regarding the dependency ratio as a larger portion of the population enters later life stages. The demographic profile is further shaped by historical migration patterns that have seen many working-age residents move abroad. Like many Caribbean islands, Grenada has a large diaspora, which often influences the remaining population's age distribution. Despite this, the high life expectancy underscores the island's relatively high standards of living and successful public health initiatives in managing chronic and infectious diseases.

Fertility in Grenada has seen a notable decline, with the current rate standing at 1.472 births per woman. This is well below the replacement level of 2.1, ranking the nation 156th globally for fertility. The latest data shows a crude birth rate of 11.477 per 1,000 people, resulting in approximately 4 births per day. This transition toward smaller families mirrors broader trends across the Caribbean, driven by increased educational attainment for women and improved access to reproductive health services. The crude death rate is recorded at 8.918 per 1,000 people, or roughly 3 deaths per day. The narrow gap between birth and death rates, combined with the effects of net migration, accounts for the marginal population growth of 0.11 percent. Historically, religious influences, particularly from the Protestant (49.2 percent) and Roman Catholic (36 percent) communities, have shaped social attitudes toward family, but economic factors and modernization now play more dominant roles in household planning.

Grenada remains a predominantly rural society, with the urban population accounting for 36.6 percent of the total. This urbanization level ranks 178th globally, as much of the population continues to live in coastal villages or small inland settlements. St. George's, the capital and primary economic hub, serves as the central point for commerce, tourism, and government services. The island's geography, characterized by mountainous terrain and a 121 km (75 mi) coastline, naturally concentrates settlements in accessible coastal areas. Internal migration typically flows toward the southwestern parishes, where the capital and the international airport are located. Despite the relatively low urbanization rate, the high population density means that even rural areas are well-integrated into the national infrastructure. The small land area of 344 km² (133 sq mi) ensures that most residents are within a short distance of urban amenities, blurring the traditional divide between rural and city life.

The demographic outlook for Grenada is one of stability followed by a potential slow decline. The estimated 2026 population is 117,459, with an estimated 2026 population density of 345.5 people per km² (895 per sq mi). As the fertility rate remains below replacement levels and the population continues to age, the island will likely face a shrinking labor force and increased demand for geriatric care. The net population change currently averages 0 people per day, indicating a state of demographic equilibrium. Future sustainability will depend on the government's ability to balance the needs of an aging citizenry with the retention of younger talent. Strategies to mitigate brain drain and encourage members of the diaspora to return or invest locally are critical. While the population growth is nearly stagnant, the high density ensures that land use and environmental management remain top priorities for the nation's long-term demographic and economic health.