Barbados Population 2026
As of 2025, Barbados has a population of 282,467, making it one of the smaller nations in the Latin America & Caribbean region. The country's population growth has been minimal, with a 1-year growth rate of just 0.05% and a 10-year average growth of 0.15%.
Population Trend (Barbados)
Population by Decade
Population milestones
How Barbados's population changed across key years (World Bank estimates).
Overview
Barbados, an island nation in the Latin America & Caribbean region, is classified as a high-income economy with a relatively stable but slow-growing population. Over the past decade, the population has expanded at an average annual rate of 0.15%, reflecting low fertility rates and net migration patterns typical of developed Caribbean nations. The latest 2025 figure of 282,467 places Barbados at 179th globally in population size, underscoring its small footprint on the world stage.
Demographically, Barbados faces challenges common to high-income countries, including an aging population and low birth rates. The near-zero growth rate of 0.05% in 2025 suggests that any increases are marginal, likely driven by modest net migration or natural increase. Regional context shows that while many Caribbean nations experience population decline, Barbados maintains slight positive growth, albeit at a very slow pace.
Economic factors, such as its reliance on tourism and financial services, influence migration flows, with some residents moving abroad for opportunities while others return after retirement. The combination of low mortality and low fertility has led to a mature population structure, with a significant proportion of elderly citizens. Future projections depend on immigration policies and economic conditions, but the current trend points to a plateau or very gradual decline in the coming decades.
Key Facts
- Barbados's population in 2025 is 282,467.
- The 1-year population growth rate for 2025 is 0.05%.
- Over the past 10 years, the average annual growth rate has been 0.15%.
- Barbados ranks 179th in the world by population size.
- The country is located in the Latin America & Caribbean region.
- Barbados has a high-income economy.