Country Profile: Northern Mariana Islands

The Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. commonwealth located in the North Pacific Ocean, comprise 14 islands including Saipan, Rota, and Tinian. This tropical territory has a population of approximately 51,118 as of 2024, primarily residing on Saipan. The economy thrives on tourism, agriculture, and various industries, while governance is under the sovereignty of the United States. The region's strategic location and unique cultural history contribute to its distinct identity.

Geography

The Northern Mariana Islands consist of 14 islands with a total area of 464 sq km, featuring both limestone and volcanic terrains. The climate is tropical marine, with a marked dry season from December to June and a rainy season from July to October. The islands are strategically located about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to the Philippines, offering a rich coastal environment.

1,482 km of coastline
965 m is the highest point (Agrihan Volcano)
0 km of land boundaries
53% of land is forested (2023)
1 sq km of irrigated land (2012)

People and Society

As of 2024, the Northern Mariana Islands are home to 51,118 people, with a demographic primarily composed of Asian and Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander ethnic groups. The official languages are Chamorro and English, reflecting the territory's mixed heritage. The population is predominantly Roman Catholic, with a variety of traditional beliefs also present.

32.4 years is the median age (2024)
11.9 deaths/1,000 live births infant mortality rate (2024)
77.1 years is life expectancy at birth (2024)
92.1% of the population is urban (2023)
-0.34% population growth rate (2024)

Economy

The Northern Mariana Islands' economy is heavily reliant on tourism and imports, with $1.096 billion in GDP reported in 2022. The region has seen fluctuations in growth, with a notable 16.6% growth rate in 2022 following a severe downturn in 2020 due to the pandemic. The territory benefits from a range of industries including banking, construction, and agriculture while remaining exempt from some U.S. labor laws.

$244 million in exports (2022)
$777 million in imports (2022)
$389.6 million in revenues (2016 est.)
$666 million in imports (2021)
63% of imports from Singapore (2023)

Government

The Northern Mariana Islands operate as a commonwealth under U.S. sovereignty, with a republican form of governance featuring separate branches of government. The capital, Saipan, is the political and administrative center of the islands. The CNMI's constitution became fully effective in 1986, and U.S. laws predominantly govern the territory.

Governed under a republican form of government
Saipan is the capital
All citizens are U.S. citizens but do not vote in presidential elections
18 years is the voting age
4 municipalities exist within the territory

Military and Security

The defense of the Northern Mariana Islands is the responsibility of the United States, ensuring that the territory benefits from U.S. military support despite its geographical isolation.

Energy

The entire population enjoys 100% access to electricity as of 2022, highlighting the region's commitment to providing essential services and infrastructure.

Environment

Environmental concerns in the Northern Mariana Islands include groundwater contamination and the protection of endangered species. The islands have also faced challenges from natural disasters such as typhoons, particularly from August to November.

53% of land is forested (2023)
36% of municipal solid waste recycled (2016)
32,800 tons of municipal solid waste generated annually (2024 est.)

Transportation

Transportation in the Northern Mariana Islands includes 4 airports and 3 ports, facilitating travel and trade, with Saipan being the primary hub.

7 heliports (2025)
1 port with oil terminals
Key ports include Rota, Saipan, and Tinian

Communications

The Northern Mariana Islands have a relatively developed communication infrastructure, including fixed and mobile telephony services, with approximately 25.1% of the population using the internet as of 2021.

20,000 fixed line subscriptions (2021 est.)
20,474 mobile cellular subscriptions (2004 est.)
1 TV station and 9 licensed radio stations (2009)

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	51,118 (2024 est.)	Total population
Area	464 sq km	Total area
GDP	$1.096 billion (2022 est.)	Gross Domestic Product at official exchange rate
Electricity Access	100% (2022 est.)	Electrification status
Birth Rate	15.7 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)	Birth rate per 1,000 people
Unemployment	-	Data not provided
Life Expectancy	77.1 years (2024 est.)	Average life expectancy
Infant Mortality Rate	11.9 deaths/1,000 live births (2024 est.)	Infant mortality rate