Samoa flag

Samoa

Independent State of Samoa

Capital

Apia

Region

Oceania

Population

205,557

Area (km²)

2,842

💡Quick Summary

Samoa, a picturesque island nation in Oceania, boasts a population of around 205,557 across its 2,842 km² of volcanic terrain and lush landscapes. The capital, Apia, serves as the cultural and economic hub on the main island of Upolu. With GDP data unavailable, Samoa thrives on tourism, agriculture, and its vibrant Polynesian heritage, including traditional tattooing and fa'a Samoa customs.

Key Insights

Moderate Life Expectancy and Infant Mortality

Life expectancy (71.7 years) is moderate, aligning with many middle-income developing nations, but the infant mortality rate (12.8 per 1,000 live births) is relatively high for a country with universal electricity access and a GDP per capita approaching $5,000. This suggests potential gaps in maternal or neonatal healthcare quality or access.

Significant Forest Cover

Samoa maintains extensive natural resources, with over 57% of its total land area covered by forests. This high percentage of forest area is crucial for biodiversity, climate resilience, and tourism, indicating strong environmental stewardship relative to its small landmass.

High Fertility Rate vs. Low Urbanization

Samoa maintains a high fertility rate (3.83 children per woman), which is characteristic of developing nations, yet its urban population is remarkably low at only 17.5%. This combination suggests that the majority of population growth and family life occurs within rural or peri-urban settings, contrasting typical global trends where high fertility often correlates with higher urbanization rates in developing countries.

Universal Electricity Access

Despite being a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) with a modest GDP per capita, Samoa has achieved 100% access to electricity for its population. This highlights a significant success in infrastructure development and national planning, ensuring essential services are universally available.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$1.04B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$4,822.74

GDP Growth (%)

15.23%

Inflation (%)

7.92%

Unemployment (%)

4.98%

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
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-6.00%0.00%6.00%12.00%18.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023055,000110,000165,000220,000
  • 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
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%15.0%30.0%45.0%60.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$1,500$3,000$4,500$6,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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