Laos Population 2026: 7.4M People, Density & Key Facts
Laos is a country with vast stretches of largely empty land: 7.4M people across 236,800 km², giving a density of 31/km².
GDP per capita stands at $2,541: among the lower-income economies globally. The capital, Vientiane, is the political, economic and cultural centre of the country.
📊 Population at a Glance
About Laos's Population
With a population of 7.4M, Laos is home to a significant number of people within its 236,800 km² of territory. The population density of 31/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, Vientiane, serves as the administrative, cultural and economic heart of Laos. As a landlocked country, Laos'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, Laos has a total GDP of $18.8B, translating to $2,541 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 Lao Kip (LAK).
Laos gained independence in 1953 and has since developed a distinct national identity shaped by its geography, history and culture. The official language is Lao, which is spoken by the vast majority of the population in daily life, education and government.
Within the Southeast Asia region, Laos sits alongside Indonesia (277M), Thailand (71.8M), Vietnam (98M). This regional context helps illustrate how Laos's population size compares to its neighbours.
Frequently Asked Questions about Laos's Population
What is the population of Laos in 2026?
The population of Laos is approximately 7.4M people as of 2026.
What is the capital city of Laos?
The capital city of Laos is Vientiane, which serves as the country's main administrative and cultural hub.
How densely populated is Laos?
Laos has a population density of 31/km². This is a moderate population density.
What is the GDP per capita of Laos?
Laos has a GDP per capita of $2,541, with a total GDP of $18.8B. This gives an indication of average economic output per person.
What language do people speak in Laos?
The official language of Laos is Lao.
How big is Laos?
Laos covers a total area of 236,800 km². With a population of 7.4M, that gives a density of 31/km².
When did Laos gain independence?
Laos gained independence in 1953.
What currency is used in Laos?
The official currency of Laos is the Lao Kip (LAK).
Curious about another country? Generate a random country and explore its population, geography and more.