Guyana Population 2026: 787K People, Vast Empty Land
Guyana is one of the most sparsely populated countries on the planet: 787K people across 214,969 km², giving a density of 4/km².
GDP per capita stands at $18,800: a figure above the global median. The capital, Georgetown, is the political, economic and cultural centre of the country.
📊 Population at a Glance
About Guyana's Population
With a population of 787K, Guyana is home to a significant number of people within its 214,969 km² of territory. The population density of 4/km² reflects how people are distributed across the country: one of the lowest densities in the world, with vast open and largely uninhabited spaces.
The capital city, Georgetown, serves as the administrative, cultural and economic heart of Guyana. Guyana has a coastline of 459 km, which has historically attracted settlement and shaped where the majority of the population lives and works.
In economic terms, Guyana has a total GDP of $14.8B, translating to $18,800 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 Guyanese Dollar (GYD).
Guyana gained independence in 1966 and has since developed a distinct national identity shaped by its geography, history and culture. The official language is English, making it straightforward for international visitors and businesses to communicate.
Within the South America region, Guyana sits alongside Argentina (46.2M), Brazil (215.3M), Chile (19.5M). This regional context helps illustrate how Guyana's population size compares to its neighbours.
Frequently Asked Questions about Guyana's Population
What is the population of Guyana in 2026?
The population of Guyana is approximately 787K people as of 2026.
What is the capital city of Guyana?
The capital city of Guyana is Georgetown, which serves as the country's main administrative and cultural hub.
How densely populated is Guyana?
Guyana has a population density of 4/km². This is very low density, with large amounts of open, sparsely settled land.
What is the GDP per capita of Guyana?
Guyana has a GDP per capita of $18,800, with a total GDP of $14.8B. This gives an indication of average economic output per person.
What language do people speak in Guyana?
The official language of Guyana is English.
How big is Guyana?
Guyana covers a total area of 214,969 km². With a population of 787K, that gives a density of 4/km².
When did Guyana gain independence?
Guyana gained independence in 1966.
What currency is used in Guyana?
The official currency of Guyana is the Guyanese Dollar (GYD).
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