Which are the 15 smallest countries in North America by population? When most people think of North America, they envision enormous and populous countries like the United States and Canada, which is one of the coldest countries in the world.
However, beyond these gigantic countries, there exists a cluster of little, sometimes forgotten countries that contribute to the continent’s uniqueness.
In this blog post, we will take a look at these smallest North American countries by population, shedding light on their unique characteristics and their economic and cultural significance. Now, without further ado, let’s jump right into it.
How Many Countries Are In North America?
There are a total of 23 countries in North America.
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada
- Costa Rica
- Cuba
- Dominica
- Dominican Republic
- El Salvador
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Haiti
- Honduras
- Jamaica
- Mexico
- Nicaragua
- Panama
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United States of America
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Now, let’s talk about the smallest countries in North America by population.
Top 15 Smallest Countries in North America
If you have been curious about which countries are the smallest in North America, probably because you are a researcher, tourist, or traveler, then keep scrolling because we will discuss them in this section.
Here are the top 15 smallest countries in North America by population, in no particular order.
1. Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Kitts and Nevis is one of the smallest countries in North America by population, and it is a beautiful pair of islands in the Eastern Caribbean, is the smallest sovereign state in the Western Hemisphere.
It has a population of 53,000, and its citizens are scattered over two main islands, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and a handful of smaller islets.
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The capital city, Basseterre, on Saint Kitts, is the bustling center of activity. Saint Kitts and Nevis have a long history, and colonial influences may be seen in their architecture and culture.
The country’s economy is primarily reliant on tourism, owing to its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and ancient buildings such as Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Locals take pride in their heritage, and visitors are frequently engaged in local customs and festivities, such as the colorful Carnival.
2. Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda is an independent Commonwealth nation in the Eastern Caribbean with a population of around 98,000 people. It is one of the smallest countries in North America by population.
The main island, Antigua, is home to the majority of the inhabitants, while Barbuda is noted for its stunning beaches and nature reserves.
Antigua, which is the economic and cultural center, is where St. John’s, the capital city, is located. It offers a vibrant blend of British and Caribbean influences.
Visitors can explore historic locations such as Nelson’s Dockyard, where Admiral Horatio Nelson once stationed his fleet, as well as participate in world-class sailing and water sports.
In contrast, Barbuda is a pristine paradise noted for its pink sand beaches and bird sanctuaries.
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3. Dominica
Dominica, sometimes known as the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean,” is a small volcanic island republic with a population of about 72,000 people.
The rocky topography, beautiful rainforests, and abundance of waterfalls on this island make it a refuge for eco-tourism.
Also, Roseau, the island’s capital city, serves as a gateway to the island’s natural attractions, which include Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Despite the fact that Dominica has a small, close-knit population, it values environmental conservation and sustainable practices, as demonstrated by its commitment to preserving its unique ecosystems.
4. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
The fourth country on our list of the smallest countries in North America by population is Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, which consists of Saint Vincent and a chain of smaller islands known as the Grenadines, has a population of around 110,000 people.
The main island, Saint Vincent, is home to the majority of the people and serves as the country’s economic and cultural center.
Not just that, Saint Vincent is known for its rich landscapes, which include the La Soufrière volcano.
The Grenadines provide a more quiet and secluded way of life, attracting those seeking a peaceful escape.
Locals are proud of their rich culture, which includes music, dance, and traditional festivals such as Vincy Mas, which add to the island’s allure.
5. Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia, which has a population of over 183,000 people, is noted for its stunning landscape, which includes the iconic Pitons.
This small yet diversified country combines natural beauty with cultural riches. Castries, the bustling capital, is a commercial and tourist center.
Additionally, visitors can visit historic places like Pigeon Island National Park and participate in activities such as snorkeling, trekking, and sampling native Creole cuisine.
Because of Saint Lucia’s limited population, its natural treasures, such as lush rainforests and gorgeous beaches, remain relatively untouched.
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6. Grenada
Grenada, also known as the “Spice Isle,” has a population of about 112,000 people. This small yet close-knit population is proud of its heritage and contributes to the country’s unique charm.
The capital and gorgeous harbor town, St. George’s, is famed for its colorful architecture and bustling marketplaces.
Grenada’s economy is based on spice cultivation, notably nutmeg, and this has earned the island the name “Spice Isle.” You will agree that it is worthy of being on this list of the smallest countries in North America by population.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by exploring spice plantations, gorgeous beaches, and underwater sculpture parks.
7. Belize
Belize is located on Central America’s eastern coast and has a population of approximately 420,000 people.
Belize, while larger than the other countries on our list, is still small in comparison to its neighboring countries.
The diverse population of the country reflects its rich history and cultural heritage.
Belize City, on the coast, serves as the economic center, while inland cities such as San Ignacio provide access to lush jungles and historic Mayan ruins.
Also, Belize’s small but growing tourism industry attracts nature enthusiasts, divers, and adventurers because of its vibrant marine life, cave systems, and the Great Blue Hole, a world-renowned dive site.
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8. The Bahamas
The Bahamas is an archipelago of more than 700 islands and cays with a population of about 395,000 people. It is definitely one of the smallest countries in North America by population.
Despite being larger than many other countries in the region, its modest population means that the majority of its islands preserve a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere.
Nassau, the capital and cultural center of New Providence Island, is located on the island. Colonial architecture, historic forts, and colorful markets are all things visitors can explore.
The small population of the Bahamas contributes to its friendly and welcoming environment, making it a preferred destination for visitors looking for a tropical paradise.
9. Barbados
Barbados, with a population of approximately 287,000 people, is well-known for its vibrant culture and stunning beaches.
Despite its tiny size, the island’s diverse population adds to its lively environment, making it a center for music, art, and traditional cuisine.
The capital, Bridgetown, is famed for its colonial architecture and busy marketplaces.
Visitors can visit historic places such as the George Washington House and participate in lively festivities such as Crop Over, a colorful celebration of Barbadian culture.
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10. Bermuda
Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory with a population of approximately 62,000 people. Its distinct mix of British and Caribbean traditions makes it an intriguing destination to visit and live in.
Bermuda, with its pink-sand beaches, nautical heritage, and well-preserved architecture, provides a unique experience for both residents and tourists.
Hamilton, the capital city, is the economic center as well as a retail and dining destination.
The small population of Bermuda maintains a close-knit communal atmosphere, with a particular emphasis on conserving the island’s natural beauty and cultural legacy.
11. Greenland
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is home to about 56,000 people. Despite its huge area, the majority of its people live in coastal towns.
This small yet resilient community has adapted to the Arctic environment and maintains a unique way of life. The capital, Nuuk, is home to cultural institutions as well as the political center.
Greenland’s small population fosters a strong sense of community, with customs like dog sledding and kayaking remaining important parts of their daily lives.
12. Aruba
Aruba is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with a population of approximately 116,000 people.
Aruba is known for its white-sand beaches, active nightlife, and Dutch-Caribbean culture. One thing its citizens enjoy is a high standard of living. Its capital, Oranjestad, is a vibrant city with colourful buildings and a bustling harbor.
Aruba’s small population adds to a warm and welcoming environment, with inhabitants frequently embracing visitors with open arms.
13. Cayman Islands
The thirteenth country on our list of smallest countries in North America is the Cayman Islands.
The Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory with a population of approximately 65,000 people.
These islands are well-known for their thriving financial services industry, which helps to maintain their economic stability.
Because of the small population, inhabitants enjoy a close-knit community feel and a great quality of life.
The capital, George Town, is a significant financial center and a popular site for travelers exploring the Caribbean Sea’s undersea attractions.
Despite their economic success, the Cayman Islands maintain a calm and welcoming atmosphere.
14. Saint Martin
Saint Martin is a French overseas collectivity that shares an island with Sint Maarten and has a population of approximately 76,000 people.
The island’s limited population adds to its distinctive cultural blend, with French and Dutch influences coexisting peacefully.
Marigot, the French side’s capital, provides a taste of French-Caribbean culture with its charming streets and bistros.
Visitors can enjoy duty-free shopping in Philipsburg on the Dutch side, as well as relaxing on magnificent beaches and immersing themselves in the rich local culture.
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15. Sint Maarten
Sint Maarten is a component country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and they share the same island with Saint Martin.
It has a population of about 43,000, making it the least populated country on our list of the smallest countries in North America by population.
Sint Maarten is well-known for its thriving tourism industry, which offers visitors a taste of Dutch-Caribbean hospitality. Philipsburg, the Dutch capital, is a bustling harbor town with a lively atmosphere.
The island’s small population allows inhabitants and visitors alike to enjoy the island’s gorgeous beaches, water sports, and busy nightlife while retaining its unique culture and customs.
Economic and Cultural Significance of Smaller-Populated Countries
In North America, there are numerous economic and cultural significance of smaller-populated countries and these include;
Cultural and Historical Landmarks
Smaller populations in North America often have a strong cultural and historical legacy.
This uniqueness can be a key appeal for tourists while also helping to preserve local traditions.
Saint Kitts and Nevis, for example, offers visitors a look into its legendary history through colonial-era architecture and historical attractions.
These countries often celebrate their cultural diversity through festivals, music, and cuisine
By doing so, they not only attract tourists but also instill a sense of pride and identity in their citizens.
Tourism
Tourism is vital to the economies of many of North America’s less populous countries. Visitors from all over the world are drawn to the appeal of pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and one-of-a-kind cultural experiences.
Tourism is an important source of income, employment, and foreign exchange profits for several countries.
The reliance on tourism, on the other hand, has issues such as seasonality and vulnerability to global economic changes.
However, these smaller countries’ economies must diversify to lessen reliance on this sector and ensure long-term survival.
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Conclusion
While small in population, each of these 15 North American countries offers a rich culture, natural beauty, and history.
Their modest size ensures that life here remains closely connected, allowing citizens to enjoy a slower pace while preserving the natural landscapes that make these nations unique North American gems.
These smallest countries in North America by population provide a plethora of experiences to explore and enjoy, whether you’re a traveler looking for adventure or a citizen proud of your heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following are commonly asked questions about the smallest countries in North America by population:
What are the top 10 smallest countries in North America by population?
Saint Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Lucia, Grenada, Belize, The Bahamas, Barbados, and Bermuda are among the top ten smallest countries in North America by population.
Which country has the most people in North America?
The country with the most people in North America is the United States.
How many countries are in North America?
North America has a total of 23 recognized countries.
So, what did you think? Has this piece been helpful? Let’s have your comments.