Iceland

The population of Iceland is approximately 388.2K (2024).

The capital of Iceland is Reykjavik.

Iceland's GDP per capita is $84.4K (2024).

Life expectancy in Iceland is 82.81 years (2024).

Iceland covers 103,000 km² (39,769 sq mi).

Iceland is very sparsely populated, with about 4 people per km² — well below the global average of 60.

Iceland's population is growing slowly at 0.2% per year, below the global average.

Yes — based on GDP per capita, Iceland falls in the high GDP-per-person tier at $84.4K. Official World Bank income groups use Atlas-method GNI per capita, so this is a GDP-based comparison rather than an official income-group label.

Iceland reports a low intentional homicide rate of 1.3 per 100,000 people, below the global average.

The official language of Iceland is Icelandic.

Iceland uses the Icelandic króna (kr) as its sole official currency.

Iceland is an island nation and shares no land borders.

The best months to visit Iceland are June, July, August, based on climate data for the capital.

Current estimates show that Iceland has a population of approximately 388,000 people. This total ranks the nation global 175 of 215 in terms of population size. Despite its large land area, the country has one of the lowest population densities in the world, with about 3.8 people per km² (9.8 per sq mi).

Iceland maintains one of the highest standards of living globally, with a projected GDP per capita of 84,378 USD. This figure ranks the nation global 11 of 212 and regional (Europe) 8 of 46. Such economic strength is supported by diverse sectors including tourism, renewable energy production, and the traditional fishing industry.

Iceland is one of the most digitally connected nations on Earth, with 98.2% of the population using the internet. This high level of connectivity ranks the country global 11 of 212. Most residents have access to high-speed fiber-optic connections, even in many of the more remote coastal communities across the island.

The unemployment rate in Iceland is approximately 3.6%, which ranks the nation global 125 of 186. The labor market is characterized by high participation rates and a flexible workforce. Key employment sectors include tourism, public services, and the energy-intensive smelting industry, which benefits from the country's abundant geothermal resources.

The vast majority of Icelanders live in urban areas, with approximately 94.2% of the total population residing in cities or towns. A significant portion of these residents are concentrated in the capital, Reykjavik, and its surrounding municipalities. This high urbanization rate reflects the country's transition to a modern service economy.

Current estimates show an estimated 2026 population of approximately 388,000 people. This figure is based on recent projections from the latest official 2024 data, which recorded 386,506 residents. The nation maintains a steady but modest growth trend, supported largely by international migration and a stable crude birth rate.

The latest ranking places Iceland at global 175 of 215 countries in terms of total population. Within its own region, it is ranked 40 of 47 in Europe and 10 of 12 in Northern Europe. These rankings reflect its status as a small nation with a relatively compact citizenry.

Iceland has an estimated 2026 population density of 3.8 people per km² (9.8 per sq mi), making it one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world. The vast majority of the island’s interior remains uninhabited, with most residents living in coastal urban centers.

The population is currently increasing at an annual rate of approximately 0.22%. While the natural fertility rate of 1.56 births per woman is below the replacement level, growth is sustained by positive net migration. Recent data indicates that approximately two people are added to the total population every day.

The current fertility rate is 1.56 births per woman, which is consistent with trends seen across many other developed European nations. Although this rate is below the 2.1 threshold required for long-term natural replacement, the country’s overall population continues to expand due to robust levels of international immigration.

Recent data shows that 94.18% of the population resides in urban areas, a figure that places Iceland among the most highly urbanized nations globally. This concentration is heavily focused on the Greater Reykjavik area, which serves as the primary hub for the country’s economic and political life.