Northern Mariana Islands Population 2026

Overview

The Northern Mariana Islands, a high-income country in the East Asia & Pacific region, has seen a sustained population decline over the past decade. With a 10-year average growth rate of -1.63%, the territory's demographic trend is characterized by net outmigration and a shrinking resident base, likely influenced by economic shifts and limited opportunities in the remote Pacific. The latest 2025 population figure of 44,278 represents a further contraction from previous years, consistent with the negative 1-year growth rate of -1.92%.

Regionally, the Northern Mariana Islands is one of the smaller Pacific island entities, and its population decline contrasts with the growth seen in some neighboring countries. As a high-income territory, its demographic challenges are distinct from those of lower-income Pacific nations, often tied to the ebb and flow of tourism, federal funding, and labor migration. The population rank of 206 globally underscores its small size relative to other countries and territories.

The consistent negative growth rates over both the short and long term suggest structural factors at play, such as emigration to the United States mainland or other Pacific hubs. Without significant policy changes or economic revitalization, the population is projected to continue shrinking, though the territory remains an integral part of the East Asia & Pacific demographic landscape.

Key Facts

• Latest population (2025): 44,278
• 1-year growth rate: -1.92%
• 10-year average growth rate: -1.63%
• Global population rank: #206
• Income group: High income
• Region: East Asia & Pacific