Chile Population 2026: 19.5M People, Density & Key Facts
Chile is a country with vast stretches of largely empty land: 19.5M people across 756,102 km², giving a density of 26/km².
GDP per capita stands at $16,260: a figure above the global median. The capital, Santiago, is the political, economic and cultural centre of the country.
📊 Population at a Glance
About Chile's Population
With a population of 19.5M, Chile is home to a significant number of people within its 756,102 km² of territory. The population density of 26/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, Santiago, serves as the administrative, cultural and economic heart of Chile. Chile has a coastline of 6,435 km, which has historically attracted settlement and shaped where the majority of the population lives and works.
In economic terms, Chile has a total GDP of $317B, translating to $16,260 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 Peso (CLP).
Chile gained independence in 1818 and has since developed a distinct national identity shaped by its geography, history and culture. The official language is Spanish, which is spoken by the vast majority of the population in daily life, education and government.
Within the South America region, Chile sits alongside Argentina (46.2M), Brazil (215.3M), Colombia (51.5M). This regional context helps illustrate how Chile's population size compares to its neighbours.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chile's Population
What is the population of Chile in 2026?
The population of Chile is approximately 19.5M people as of 2026.
What is the capital city of Chile?
The capital city of Chile is Santiago, which serves as the country's main administrative and cultural hub.
How densely populated is Chile?
Chile has a population density of 26/km². This is a moderate population density.
What is the GDP per capita of Chile?
Chile has a GDP per capita of $16,260, with a total GDP of $317B. This gives an indication of average economic output per person.
What language do people speak in Chile?
The official language of Chile is Spanish.
How big is Chile?
Chile covers a total area of 756,102 km². With a population of 19.5M, that gives a density of 26/km².
When did Chile gain independence?
Chile gained independence in 1818.
What currency is used in Chile?
The official currency of Chile is the Peso (CLP).
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