Lesotho
Country statistics · 1990–present
Lesotho at a Glance
Lesotho is home to 2.3 million people as of 2024, with a population that is growing rapidly. At a GDP per capita of $1,367, it is a low-income economy — reflecting an economy where significant development opportunity remains. Life expectancy at birth stands at 57.8 years, well below the global average, reflecting ongoing public health challenges.
Population Trends
The total resident population stood at 2.3 million as of 2024. With a birth rate of 23.8 and a death rate of 10.5 per 1,000 people (2024), the natural growth rate stands at 13.3 per 1,000 — equivalent to roughly 31,000 additional residents each year from natural change alone.
Economy & Development
Lesotho is a small economy, with a total GDP that is projected at $3 billion (2029 IMF projection). At $1,367 per person, it is classified as a low-income economy — reflecting an economy where significant development opportunity remains. Real GDP growth is projected at 1.5% in 2029, representing modest growth.
Health & Society
Life expectancy at birth is 57.8 years (2024), well below the global average, reflecting ongoing public health challenges. Current health expenditure per person is $123 (2023), representing very low per-capita healthcare spending, a common constraint in lower-income economies. The adult literacy rate stands at 90.4% (2024), reflecting a majority-literate adult population. 51.8% of the population use the internet (2024), indicating growing but uneven digital access. Access to safe drinking water reaches 31.3% of the population (2024), representing limited safe drinking water access, a significant public health priority.