In this article, we will list the 15 least densely populated countries in the world. If you want to read our discussion regarding population density and how remote work is causing population dynamics in the US to shift, go to The 35 Least Densely Populated Countries in the World.
15 – Kazakhstan
Population Per Square Mile – 19
Kazakhstan is 15th on our list of the least densely populated countries in the world. The country has an area roughly equal to western Europe. Its interior regions particularly have low population density.
14 – Mauritania
Population Per Square Mile – 13
Mauritania’s vast land area consists of significant desert regions, making it sparsely populated. The country has an estimated population of more than 4.6 million.
13 – Botswana
Population Per Square Mile – 12
Botswana is a country located in the southern African region with one of the lowest population densities in the world. Its capital city, Gaborone, houses more than 10% of its population.
12 – Guyana
Population Per Square Mile – 11
The South American country of Guyana is 12th on our list of the 35 least densely populated countries in the world. A significant majority of its population resides along the coast, particularly in the city of Georgetown.
11 – Canada
Population Per Square Mile – 11
Canada is one of the least densely populated countries in the world. Despite being the second largest country in terms of total area, the country has a population of a little more than 38 million.
10 – French Guiana
Population Per Square Mile – 10
French Guiana is among the top 10 least densely populated countries in the world. Located on the northern coast of South America, the country has vast areas of uninhabitable land which contributes to uneven population distribution.
9 – Iceland
Population Per Square Mile – 10
Iceland is one of the least densely populated countries in the world. Its challenging environments, such as those with volcanic activities and cold winters, are some of the reasons for the low population density in the country.
8 – Suriname
Population Per Square Mile – 10
Suriname is another South American country on our list of least densely populated countries. About 63% of the population in the country resides in urban areas.
7 – Libya
Population Per Square Mile – 10
Libya is one of the top 20 largest countries by land area. However, the country only has a population of just over 6.7 million, making it one of the least densely populated countries in the world.
6 – Australia
Population Per Square Mile – 9
Australia is sixth on our list of the least densely populated countries in the world. Its population is predominantly urban.
5 – Namibia
Population Per Square Mile – 8
Namibia is among the top 5 least densely populated countries in the world. Its population growth rate has been relatively slow, with a fertility rate of just above 3 children per woman.
4 – Western Sahara
Population Per Square Mile – 6
Western Sahara is fourth on our list of the 35 least densely populated countries in the world. It is a disputed territory with a population of just above half a million.
3 – Mongolia
Population Per Square Mile – 6
Mongolia is among the top 3 least densely populated countries in the world. The country is situated in northern Asia and shares borders with Russia.
2 – Falkland Islands
Population Per Square Mile – 1
The Falkland Islands has a population of just above 3600 people, making it one of the least populous territories in the world. It is also the second least densely populated country in the world.
1 – Greenland
Population Per Square Mile – 0.36
The least densely populated country in the world is Greenland. It has a population of just above 56,600 and is also known as one of the emptiest countries in the world.
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