Cap Vert Population : an Overview of the Islands’ Demographic Landscape

The Republic of Cape Verde (Cap Vert) is an archipelago of ten volcanic islands located off the coast of West Africa. Despite its modest land area of 4 033 km², the country hosts a dynamic and growing population that shapes its social, economic, and cultural life. As of the latest national census (2023), the resident population stands at approximately 580 000 inhabitants, making Cape Verde one of the most densely populated island nations in the Atlantic.

Historical Population Growth

Since independence from Portugal in 1975, Cape Verde has experienced a steady rise in inhabitants. The post‑colonial era saw a population increase of around 2 % per year, driven by natural growth and a gradual decline in emigration. The 1990 census recorded 350 000 people; by 2020 the figure had already surpassed 540 000. This upward trend reflects improvements in health care, higher life expectancy (now about 73 years), and a youthful demographic structure.

Age Structure and Urban Concentration

The age pyramid remains youthful: roughly 38 % of the population is under 15 years old, while the 15‑64 age group accounts for about 55 %. The proportion of seniors (65 +) is still below 7 %, but it is expected to rise as life expectancy continues to improve.

Urbanisation is pronounced. The capital city, Praia, located on Santiago Island, concentrates more than 150 000 residents, representing the largest urban centre. Mindelo, on São Vicente, follows with around 70 000 inhabitants. Together, these two cities host nearly half of the national population, illustrating a clear shift from rural villages to coastal urban hubs.

Key Demographic Indicators

Migration Patterns

Historically, Cape Verde has been a nation of emigrants, with sizable diaspora communities in Portugal, the United States, and the Netherlands. Recent data, however, shows a modest reversal: return migration is increasing as young professionals seek opportunities at home, attracted by the expanding tourism sector and digital‑nomad initiatives. This trend contributes to the steady rise in the resident population.

Population and Tourism: A Symbiotic Relationship

Besoin de partir au soleil ? Direction le Cap Vert, un archipel connu en tant