Verified Facts
The population of Dominica is approximately 67,408 people, with a diverse mix of ethnic groups, languages, and religions that reflect the island's history and cultural heritage.
Quick Facts
Population Overview
The population of Dominica is relatively small, with a total of approximately 67,408 people, according to the latest estimates. The population growth rate is slow, at around 0.2% per year, which is lower than the average for the Caribbean region. The median age is around 34.4 years, indicating a relatively young population. The urban population accounts for around 69.7% of the total population, with the majority living in the capital city of Roseau. The population density is approximately 89.7 people per square kilometer, which is relatively high compared to other Caribbean islands.
The population of Dominica has been influenced by various factors, including migration patterns, urbanization, and natural population growth. Many Dominicans have migrated to other countries, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, in search of better economic opportunities. This has resulted in a significant diaspora community, with many Dominicans maintaining strong ties to their homeland. The government has implemented various initiatives to encourage population growth and development, including investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
In terms of urbanization, Dominica is experiencing a gradual shift towards urban living, with many people moving to the capital city of Roseau and other urban areas in search of employment, education, and other opportunities. This has resulted in the growth of urban centers, with associated challenges such as housing shortages, traffic congestion, and environmental degradation. The government is working to address these challenges through sustainable urban planning and development initiatives.
Ethnic Groups
| Ethnic Group | Percentage | Region | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 86.8% | Island-wide | Descendants of African slaves |
| Mixed | 9.1% | Island-wide | Mixed African, European, and indigenous ancestry |
| Indigenous Kalinago | 3.2% | Eastern coast | Indigenous people of Dominica |
| White | 0.8% | Island-wide | Mainly of European descent |
| Other | 0.1% | Island-wide | Includes people of Asian, Middle Eastern, and other ethnicities |
| The ethnic groups in Dominica reflect the island's complex history and cultural heritage. The majority of the population is of African descent, with many people tracing their ancestry back to the slaves who were brought to the island by European colonizers. There is also a significant mixed population, with people of African, European, and indigenous ancestry. The indigenous Kalinago people, who are the original inhabitants of the island, make up a small but significant proportion of the population. The white population, mainly of European descent, is relatively small, while other ethnic groups, including people of Asian and Middle Eastern descent, make up a tiny proportion of the population. Overall, Dominica is a culturally diverse society, with a strong emphasis on preserving and promoting its unique cultural heritage. |
Languages
- English is the official language of Dominica and is widely spoken throughout the island.
- Kalinago is the language of the indigenous Kalinago people and is still spoken by some members of the community.
- Creole is a widely spoken dialect that reflects the island's African, European, and indigenous cultural influences.
- French is also spoken by some people, particularly in the northern part of the island, which is close to the French territory of Guadeloupe.
- Dominican Creole French is an endangered language that is spoken by a small number of people, mainly in the northern part of the island.
Religions
| Religion | Percentage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Christian | 80.2% | Mainly Roman Catholic, with smaller numbers of Protestants and other Christian denominations |
| Rastafarian | 12.6% | A significant minority, with a strong presence in the island's culture and music |
| None | 6.1% | People who do not identify with any particular religion |
| Other | 1.1% | Includes people of other faiths, such as Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism |
| The people of Dominica are predominantly Christian, with the majority identifying as Roman Catholic. There is also a significant Rastafarian community, which has a strong presence in the island's culture and music. A small proportion of the population does not identify with any particular religion, while others follow other faiths, such as Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. The government of Dominica promotes religious freedom and tolerance, with people of all faiths able to practice their religion freely. |
Age Distribution
| Age Group | Percentage | Implications |
|---|---|---|
| 0-14 | 22.1% | Significant proportion of young people, with implications for education and healthcare |
| 15-24 | 16.3% | Young adults, with many pursuing education and entering the workforce |
| 25-54 | 46.4% | Working-age population, with many people in their prime productive years |
| 55-64 | 9.4% | Older working-age population, with many people approaching retirement |
| 65+ | 5.8% | Elderly population, with implications for healthcare and social security |
| The age distribution of the population of Dominica reflects the island's relatively young population, with a significant proportion of young people and a smaller proportion of elderly people. The majority of the population is in the working-age group, with many people in their prime productive years. This has implications for the island's economy, with a large workforce available to contribute to economic growth and development. |
Urbanization & Major Cities
- The urban population of Dominica accounts for around 69.7% of the total population, with the majority living in the capital city of Roseau.
- Portsmouth is the second-largest city, with a significant population and a major port.
- Marigot is a smaller town, with a growing population and a developing economy.
- The diaspora community is significant, with many Dominicans living in other countries, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
- Migration trends are influenced by economic factors, with many people moving to urban areas in search of employment and better living standards.