Ecuador flag

Ecuador

Republic of Ecuador

Capital

Quito

Region

Americas

Population

18,103,660

Area (km²)

276,841

💡Quick Summary

Ecuador, nestled in the Andes of South America within the Americas region, boasts a population of about 18 million people across its 276,841 km² territory, with Quito serving as its high-altitude capital. Known for straddling the equator—hence its name—and featuring diverse ecosystems from Amazon rainforests to the iconic Galápagos Islands, the country thrives on oil exports, agriculture, and tourism. While GDP data is unavailable here, Ecuador's economy is emerging, supported by its biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Key Insights

Relatively High Life Expectancy for its Region

Ecuador's life expectancy at 77.39 years is quite high, often surpassing the average for many South American nations and approaching levels seen in more developed countries. This suggests effective public health interventions and improving living conditions, despite the absence of specific health expenditure data.

Significant Forest Cover Preservation

Nearly half of Ecuador's land area (49.545%) is covered by forests, indicating a strong commitment or natural advantage in preserving its natural environment. This high percentage of forest area is crucial for biodiversity and climate regulation, especially for a country known for its rich ecosystems.

Remarkably Low Unemployment Amidst Modest GDP Growth

Ecuador exhibits a notably low unemployment rate of 3.51%, which is quite impressive, especially when considering its modest GDP growth rate of 1.988%. This suggests a relatively stable labor market or potentially a significant informal sector not captured, contrasting with common expectations where low growth might correlate with higher joblessness.

High Urbanization with Declining Fertility

With over 63% of its population living in urban areas, Ecuador is a significantly urbanized nation. Coupled with a fertility rate of 1.82, which is below the replacement level of 2.1, this indicates a demographic shift towards an aging population and potential future challenges in workforce growth, typical of more developed economies.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$121.15B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$6,737.85

GDP Growth (%)

1.99%

Inflation (%)

2.22%

Unemployment (%)

3.51%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-10.00%-5.00%0.00%5.00%10.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
201420152016201720182019202020212022202304,500,0009,000,00013,500,00018,000,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
201420152016201720182019202020210.0%6.0%12.0%18.0%24.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$2,000$4,000$6,000$8,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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