Ethiopia Population 2026: 126.5M People, Density & Key Facts
Ethiopia is a country with a moderate, fairly even population spread: 126.5M people across 1,104,300 km², giving a density of 115/km².
GDP per capita stands at $996: among the lower-income economies globally. The capital, Addis Ababa, is the political, economic and cultural centre of the country.
📊 Population at a Glance
About Ethiopia's Population
With a population of 126.5M, Ethiopia is home to a significant number of people within its 1,104,300 km² of territory. The population density of 115/km² reflects how people are distributed across the country: a moderate density typical of many countries in the region.
The capital city, Addis Ababa, serves as the administrative, cultural and economic heart of Ethiopia. As a landlocked country, Ethiopia'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, Ethiopia has a total GDP of $126B, translating to $996 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 Birr (ETB).
Ethiopia gained independence in Never colonized and has since developed a distinct national identity shaped by its geography, history and culture. The official language is Amharic, which is spoken by the vast majority of the population in daily life, education and government.
Within the East Africa region, Ethiopia sits alongside Kenya (55.9M), Tanzania (63.7M), Burundi (12.6M). This regional context helps illustrate how Ethiopia's population size compares to its neighbours.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ethiopia's Population
What is the population of Ethiopia in 2026?
The population of Ethiopia is approximately 126.5M people as of 2026.
What is the capital city of Ethiopia?
The capital city of Ethiopia is Addis Ababa, which serves as the country's main administrative and cultural hub.
How densely populated is Ethiopia?
Ethiopia has a population density of 115/km². This is a moderate population density.
What is the GDP per capita of Ethiopia?
Ethiopia has a GDP per capita of $996, with a total GDP of $126B. This gives an indication of average economic output per person.
What language do people speak in Ethiopia?
The official language of Ethiopia is Amharic.
How big is Ethiopia?
Ethiopia covers a total area of 1,104,300 km². With a population of 126.5M, that gives a density of 115/km².
When did Ethiopia gain independence?
Ethiopia gained independence in Never colonized.
What currency is used in Ethiopia?
The official currency of Ethiopia is the Birr (ETB).
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