Country Profile: Anguilla
Anguilla is a small, British overseas territory located in the Caribbean, characterized by its flat and low-lying terrain made of coral and limestone. With a population of approximately 19,416, it is primarily urban, concentrated in the capital, The Valley. The economy is heavily dependent on tourism, further impacted by COVID-19, yet it is on a path to recovery thanks to its substantial timeshare properties. Anguilla operates as a parliamentary democracy with a legal system based on English common law.
Geography
Anguilla is situated in the Caribbean, positioned between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico. The island covers a total area of 91 square kilometers and features a coastline stretching 61 kilometers. Anguilla's flat terrain is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, especially between July and October.
- 91 sq km total area
- 61 km of coastline
- 73 m highest elevation at Crocus Hill
- 12 nm territorial sea
- 200 nm exclusive economic zone
People and Society
As of 2024, Anguilla's population is estimated at 19,416, with a predominant ethnic composition of African/Black descent (85.3%). English is the official language, and the population is largely Protestant. The age structure indicates a median age of 37.5 years, with a significant percentage (20.8%) of the population under 15 years old.
- 11.69 births/1,000 population (2025 est.)
- 82.6 years life expectancy at birth (2024 est.)
- 100% urban population (2023)
- 1.51 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
- 4.5% of the population identifies with no religion (2011)
Economy
Anguilla's economy is predominantly tourism-driven, exacerbated by high public debt and recent pandemic challenges. The estimated real GDP for 2024 is approximately $362.5 million, with a per capita GDP of $31,000. Although agriculture plays a minimal role, the island is exploring the reopening of its oil refinery to diversify the economy.
- $362.5 million real GDP in 2024 (PPP)
- $31,000 real GDP per capita (2024 est.)
- 3% inflation rate (2022 est.)
- 20.8% public debt to GDP ratio (2014 est.)
- 100% electrification of the population (2020)
Government
Anguilla is a self-governing territory under British sovereignty, governed through a parliamentary democracy. The House of Assembly consists of 11 members, and the Premier leads the government. The latest constitution was established on April 1, 1982, and universal suffrage is granted to residents from the age of 18.
- King Charles III is the head of state (since 2022)
- Cora Richardson-Hodge is the Premier (since 2025)
- 11 seats in the House of Assembly
- 27.3% representation of women in the legislature
- Anguilla Day is celebrated on May 30 (since 1967)
Military and Security
The defense of Anguilla is the responsibility of the United Kingdom, with no standing military forces of its own.
Energy
Anguilla boasts a 100% electrification rate, ensuring that all residents have access to electricity.
Environment
Anguilla faces environmental challenges, particularly concerning the supply of potable water. The island's climate is tropical, moderated by northeast trade winds, and it features a significant proportion of forested area.
- 61.1% forest cover (2022 est.)
- 0% of land used for agriculture (2022 est.)
Transportation
Anguilla has one airport serving civil aviation and a small merchant marine fleet comprising two vessels.
- 1 airport operational (2025)
- 2 merchant ships (2023)
Communications
The telecommunications infrastructure includes a range of mobile cellular subscriptions and internet access, with a significant majority of the population connected.
- 81.6% of the population are internet users (2021 est.)
- 25,870 mobile subscriptions in 2022
- 6,000 fixed-line subscriptions (2021 est.)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 19,416 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 91 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (PPP) | $362.5 million | 2024 estimate |
| Real GDP per capita | $31,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Inflation rate | 3% | 2022 estimate |
| Birth rate | 11.69 births/1,000 | 2025 estimate |
| Life expectancy | 82.6 years | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment rate | Not specified | N/A |
| Electrification | 100% | Total population (2020) |
| Urban population | 100% | 2023 estimation |
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