Jamaica
Country statistics · 1990–present
Jamaica at a Glance
Jamaica is home to 2.8 million people as of 2024, with a population that is growing steadily. At a GDP per capita of $9,300, it is a lower-middle-income economy — reflecting an economy in active development. Life expectancy at birth stands at 71.6 years, below the global average.
Population Trends
The total resident population stood at 2.8 million as of 2024. With a birth rate of 11.4 and a death rate of 8.2 per 1,000 people (2024), the natural growth rate stands at 3.2 per 1,000 — equivalent to roughly 9,000 additional residents each year from natural change alone.
Economy & Development
Jamaica is a small economy, with a total GDP that is projected at $26 billion (2029 IMF projection). At $9,300 per person, it is classified as a lower-middle-income economy — reflecting an economy in active development. Real GDP growth is projected at 1.5% in 2029, representing modest growth. With an unemployment rate of 3.4% (2025), the labour market reflects a relatively tight labour market.
Health & Society
Life expectancy at birth is 71.6 years (2024), below the global average. Current health expenditure per person is $520 (2023), representing limited per-capita healthcare spending. The adult literacy rate stands at 79.9% (1999), reflecting literacy rates that remain a key development focus. 90.1% of the population use the internet (2024), indicating near-universal internet access.