El Salvador flag

El Salvador

Republic of El Salvador

Capital

San Salvador

Region

Americas

Population

6,029,976

Area (km²)

21,041

💡Quick Summary

El Salvador, the smallest and most densely populated country in Central America, spans 21,041 km² in the Americas region and is home to about 6 million people, with San Salvador as its bustling capital. Known for its volcanic landscapes, Pacific beaches, and vibrant pupusa cuisine, it has embraced innovation by adopting Bitcoin as legal tender in 2021. While GDP data is unavailable here, the nation grapples with economic challenges amid efforts to boost tourism and remittances from abroad.

Key Insights

Below-Replacement Fertility Rate

El Salvador's fertility rate stands at 1.78, which is below the replacement level of 2.1. This indicates a declining population growth trend in the long term, potentially leading to future demographic challenges such as an aging workforce and increased pressure on social security systems.

Impressive Electricity Access and Literacy

El Salvador boasts near-universal access to electricity at 98.300% and a high literacy rate of 89.850%. These figures highlight significant progress in basic infrastructure and human capital development, laying a strong foundation for further socio-economic advancement.

Relatively High Forest Cover for a Small Nation

Despite its small land area and high population density, El Salvador maintains a forest area covering 27.528% of its territory. This suggests ongoing efforts or natural conditions supporting significant biodiversity and environmental conservation, which is vital for ecological balance.

Strong Economic Growth Amidst Low Unemployment

El Salvador shows a robust GDP growth rate of 3.539% in 2023, coupled with a remarkably low unemployment rate of 2.992%. This suggests a dynamic economy effectively integrating its workforce, which is a significant achievement for a developing nation.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$33.85B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$5,365.44

GDP Growth (%)

3.54%

Inflation (%)

4.05%

Unemployment (%)

2.99%

Debt to GDP (%)

102.19%

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

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-12.00%-6.00%0.00%6.00%12.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
201420152016201720182019202020212022202302,000,0004,000,0006,000,0008,000,000
  • 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%7.0%14.0%21.0%28.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$1,500$3,000$4,500$6,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

Share This Country

Local Resources
Curated links to local news, real estate, events, and official websites