Sao Tome and Principe Population 2026: 227K People, High Density
Sao Tome and Principe is more densely populated than most countries in Central Africa: 227K people across 964 km², giving a density of 236/km².
GDP per capita stands at $2,203: among the lower-income economies globally. The capital, São Tomé, is the political, economic and cultural centre of the country.
📊 Population at a Glance
About Sao Tome and Principe's Population
With a population of 227K, Sao Tome and Principe is home to a significant number of people within its 964 km² of territory. The population density of 236/km² reflects how people are distributed across the country: a relatively high density, indicating an urbanised or geographically small country.
The capital city, São Tomé, serves as the administrative, cultural and economic heart of Sao Tome and Principe. Sao Tome and Principe has a coastline of 209 km, which has historically attracted settlement and shaped where the majority of the population lives and works.
In economic terms, Sao Tome and Principe has a total GDP of $0.5B, translating to $2,203 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 São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra (STN).
Sao Tome and Principe gained independence in 1975 and has since developed a distinct national identity shaped by its geography, history and culture. The official language is Portuguese, which is spoken by the vast majority of the population in daily life, education and government.
Within the Central Africa region, Sao Tome and Principe sits alongside Cameroon (27.9M), Central African Republic (5.5M), Chad (17.4M). This regional context helps illustrate how Sao Tome and Principe's population size compares to its neighbours.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sao Tome and Principe's Population
What is the population of Sao Tome and Principe in 2026?
The population of Sao Tome and Principe is approximately 227K people as of 2026.
What is the capital city of Sao Tome and Principe?
The capital city of Sao Tome and Principe is São Tomé, which serves as the country's main administrative and cultural hub.
How densely populated is Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe has a population density of 236/km². This is considered high, one of the more densely populated countries in its region.
What is the GDP per capita of Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe has a GDP per capita of $2,203, with a total GDP of $0.5B. This gives an indication of average economic output per person.
What language do people speak in Sao Tome and Principe?
The official language of Sao Tome and Principe is Portuguese.
How big is Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe covers a total area of 964 km². With a population of 227K, that gives a density of 236/km².
When did Sao Tome and Principe gain independence?
Sao Tome and Principe gained independence in 1975.
What currency is used in Sao Tome and Principe?
The official currency of Sao Tome and Principe is the São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra (STN).
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