Bolivia Population 2026: 12.1M People, Vast Empty Land
Bolivia is a country with vast stretches of largely empty land: 12.1M people across 1,098,581 km², giving a density of 11/km².
GDP per capita stands at $3,370: below the global average, reflecting a developing economy. The capital, Sucre / La Paz, is the political, economic and cultural centre of the country.
📊 Population at a Glance
About Bolivia's Population
With a population of 12.1M, Bolivia is home to a significant number of people within its 1,098,581 km² of territory. The population density of 11/km² reflects how people are distributed across the country: a low density suggesting significant open space and rural areas across the country.
The capital city, Sucre / La Paz, serves as the administrative, cultural and economic heart of Bolivia. As a landlocked country, Bolivia's population is distributed entirely across its inland territory, without access to a coastline. This has historically shaped trade patterns and economic development.
In economic terms, Bolivia has a total GDP of $40.9B, translating to $3,370 per person. This figure gives a broad indication of average living standards, though income distribution varies considerably across different regions and communities within the country. The official currency is the Boliviano (BOB).
Bolivia gained independence in 1825 and has since developed a distinct national identity shaped by its geography, history and culture. The official languages are Spanish / Quechua / Aymara, which is spoken by the vast majority of the population in daily life, education and government.
Within the South America region, Bolivia sits alongside Argentina (46.2M), Brazil (215.3M), Chile (19.5M). This regional context helps illustrate how Bolivia's population size compares to its neighbours.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bolivia's Population
What is the population of Bolivia in 2026?
The population of Bolivia is approximately 12.1M people as of 2026.
What is the capital city of Bolivia?
The capital city of Bolivia is Sucre / La Paz, which serves as the country's main administrative and cultural hub.
How densely populated is Bolivia?
Bolivia has a population density of 11/km². This is very low density, with large amounts of open, sparsely settled land.
What is the GDP per capita of Bolivia?
Bolivia has a GDP per capita of $3,370, with a total GDP of $40.9B. This gives an indication of average economic output per person.
What language do people speak in Bolivia?
The official languages of Bolivia are Spanish / Quechua / Aymara.
How big is Bolivia?
Bolivia covers a total area of 1,098,581 km². With a population of 12.1M, that gives a density of 11/km².
When did Bolivia gain independence?
Bolivia gained independence in 1825.
What currency is used in Bolivia?
The official currency of Bolivia is the Boliviano (BOB).
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