Country Profile: Anguilla
Anguilla is a small Caribbean island located east of Puerto Rico, characterized by a tropical climate and flat, low-lying terrain primarily composed of coral and limestone. With a population of approximately 19,416 in 2024, the island has a diverse demographic mainly of African descent, and English is the official language. The economy is predominantly dependent on tourism, which has been recovering since the impacts of COVID-19, though it also faces challenges with high public debt. Anguilla operates as a parliamentary democracy and is a self-governing overseas territory of the United Kingdom.
Geography
Anguilla is situated in the Caribbean Sea, part of the Lesser Antilles, and boasts a total area of 91 sq km, making it roughly half the size of Washington, D.C. The island features a 61 km coastline and is known for its flat landscape, with the highest point being Crocus Hill at 73 m. The climate is tropical, moderated by northeast trade winds, and the island is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms from July to October.
- 0 km of land boundaries.
- 200 nm exclusive economic zone.
- 12 nm territorial sea.
People and Society
As of 2024, Anguilla has a total population of 19,416, with a slight majority of female residents. The population is primarily of African descent, making up 85.3%, while the rest includes various ethnic groups. English is the official language spoken by the population. Urbanization is complete, with 100% of residents living in urban areas, and a life expectancy at birth is reported at 82.6 years.
- 11.69 births per 1,000 population (2025 estimate).
- 2.9 deaths per 1,000 live births (2025 estimate).
- 1.51 physicians per 1,000 population (2018).
Economy
Anguilla has a small, tourism-dependent economy that was significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic but is gradually recovering. The estimated GDP at purchasing power parity for 2024 is approximately $362.5 million. The economy has a high public debt, with a reliance on tourism and offshore financial services to drive growth. The government is considering reopening an oil refinery to bolster the economy further.
- $31,000 GDP per capita (2024 estimate).
- 3% inflation rate reported in 2022.
- $81.9 million in revenues (2017 estimate).
Government
Anguilla is governed as a parliamentary democracy and is an overseas territory of the UK. The island has a unicameral legislature known as the House of Assembly, consisting of 11 members. The Premier, currently Cora Richardson-Hodge, leads the government, with the chief of state being King Charles III, represented locally by a Governor. The island participates in various international organizations including CARICOM and UNESCO.
- 18 years is the minimum voting age for suffrage.
- 7 seats held by Anguilla Progressive Movement (APM) in the 2020 election.
- National holiday celebrated on May 30 each year, known as Anguilla Day.
Energy
Anguilla boasts a high electrification rate, with 100% of the population having access to electricity as of 2020. This widespread access reflects significant infrastructure development on the island.
Transportation
The transportation system in Anguilla includes 1 airport and a small merchant marine fleet of 2 vessels. The primary civil aircraft registration code for the island is VP-A, facilitating connections with other regions.
Communications
Anguilla has a developed telecommunications system with a total of 25,870 mobile cellular subscriptions, reflecting a high penetration rate of 163 subscriptions per 100 inhabitants. The island provides internet access to approximately 81.6% of its population, supporting a robust communication network.
Military and Security
The defense of Anguilla is the responsibility of the United Kingdom, with no standing military forces present on the island.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 19,416 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 91 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $362.5 million | 2024 estimate |
| GDP per capita | $31,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Life expectancy at birth | 82.6 years | 2024 estimate |
| Birth rate | 11.69 births/1,000 population | 2025 estimate |
| Death rate | 4.76 deaths/1,000 population | 2025 estimate |
| Electricity access | 100% | 2020 data |
| Mobile cellular subscriptions | 25,870 | 2022 estimate |
| Urban population | 100% | 2023 estimate |
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