The World’s Smallest and Most Exclusive Countries
From Vatican City to the Wealthy Principality of Monaco An Exploration of the World's 10 Smallest Countries by Population
Top 10 smallest countries by population, from Vatican City to Monaco
Monaco is one of the least populated countries in the world — and one of the richest. (Shutterstock.com/ostill)
World Atlas identified the least populated countries based on 2022 UN population estimates. And guess what? The luxurious principality of Monaco made the list. We’re talking about the playground of the rich and famous, where luxury yachts dock and extravagant parties never end. With an area of just 0.78 square miles, Monaco may be small, but it’s mighty in wealth.
Described as the billionaire’s playground, Monaco is synonymous with opulence. It’s where the ultra-wealthy come to bask in the sun, soak in the glamour, and flaunt their decadence. And who can blame them when Monaco has a wealth per capita of $234,317?! It’s no wonder that this tiny country has the highest GDP per capita in the world. They even have a zero-income tax policy that attracts the super-rich like moths to a shimmering chandelier.
But Monaco isn’t the only small and exclusive country on the list. Let’s dive into the world of the wealthiest minnows.
10. Dominica
Dominica. (Westend61/Getty Images)
Population: 75,748
Welcome to Dominica, the jewel of the Caribbean. With its magnificent hot springs, tropical rainforests, and the colorful capital city of Roseau, Dominica is a paradise for the senses. Don’t let its size fool you; this mountainous island packs a punch when it comes to natural beauty.
As an independent nation since 1978, Dominica offers an affordable lifestyle compared to other Caribbean islands. You won’t break the bank on food, rent, or transportation here. It’s like living in your own little slice of paradise without the hefty price tag.
9. Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Kitts And Nevis. (Xavier ROSSI/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)
Population: 57,713
Welcome to the exotic dual-island nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. This tropical paradise nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea boasts breathtaking beaches, mountain regions, and lush rainforests. It’s no wonder tourists flock here from all over the world.
But if you think becoming a citizen is as easy as sipping a piña colada on the beach, think again. To call this island paradise your own, you’ll have to open your wallet. According to the country’s citizenship website, you need to invest a minimum of $250,000 into the Sustainable Growth Fund or purchase real estate valued at no less than $400,000. All that beauty comes at a price, my friend.
8. The Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands. (Shilo Watts/Getty Images)
Population: 53,327
Welcome to the enchanting Marshall Islands, a chain of 29 coral atolls and five islands that shimmer like treasures in the central Pacific Ocean. But behind its natural wonders lies a darker history.
You see, one of these islands, Bikini Atoll, served as a testing ground for Cold War-era nuclear weapons. The United States government detonated 23 nuclear weapons there from 1946 to 1958, including 20 hydrogen bombs. The aftermath? Displaced indigenous people, radiation fallout, and the vaporization of three islands. Talk about a meltdown.
7. Monaco
Monaco. (Napoleonka/Shutterstock)
Population: 39,684
We revisit the crown jewel of exclusivity, Monaco, the country that redefines wealth and glamour. With fewer than 40,000 residents, Monaco is small but oh-so-mighty. It’s like a sparkling gem in the Mediterranean sea.
Monaco’s reputation precedes itself. It’s the playground of the rich, the kingdom of luxury, and the epitome of opulence. It’s where you rub shoulders with international celebrities and yacht hop with the elite. Plus, with a wealth per capita of $234,317, let’s just say the people here know a thing or two about the finer things in life.
6. Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein. (Arno Balzarini/AP Images)
Population: 39,135
Welcome to the picturesque and pricey paradise of Liechtenstein. Nestled between Austria and Switzerland, this small country offers stunning landscapes, historic architecture, and a high quality of life. But be prepared to dig deep into your pockets.
According to Living Cost, Liechtenstein is one of the most expensive countries to live in. But hey, with such breathtaking views and pristine air, who wouldn’t want to splurge a little? Luxury comes at a price, my friend.
5. San Marino
San Marino. (Veniamin Kraskov/Shutterstock)
Population: 34,037
Behold San Marino, the fifth-smallest country in the world both in terms of population and land area. Nestled in the heart of north-central Italy, San Marino is a hidden gem surrounded by mesmerizing landscapes.
But don’t let its size fool you; this little country packs a punch when it comes to wealth. With an estimated GDP of $1.855 billion, San Marino is considered one of the richest countries in the world. Talk about a big bang in a tiny package.
4. Palau
Palau. (REUTERS/Jackson Henry)
Population: 22,927
Welcome to Palau, a tropical paradise made up of over 500 islands in the Micronesia region. With its crystal-clear blue waters and mesmerizing jellyfish lakes, Palau is a bucket-list destination for every nature enthusiast.
But don’t be fooled by its beauty; Palau faces challenges unique to its geography. As an island nation heavily reliant on tourism, Palau struggles to produce enough goods to support its citizens due to compromised soil and a declining phosphate industry. They may have picture-perfect beaches, but a paradise isn’t without its problems.
3. Tuvalu
Tuvalu. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)
Population: 11,722
Welcome to Tuvalu, a collection of nine islands floating in the vastness of the Pacific Ocean. But this serene paradise faces some unsettling truths. Rising tides, flooding, and the overwhelming threat of disappearing beneath the ocean’s surface contribute to Tuvalu’s vulnerability.
Considered the poorest nation in the world, Tuvalu faces unique challenges due to its remote location, low population, and limited resources. But amidst the struggle lies a resilient spirit that embodies the true essence of paradise.
2. Nauru
Nauru. (U.S. Department of Energy’s Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program)
Population: 11,232
Nauru, the tiny island that stands as a testament to resilience. Its size may be small, but its story is mighty. Once a wealthy nation flourishing from phosphate mining, Nauru’s fortunes took a nosedive, leaving much of its land uninhabitable. The aftermath? Almost everything, from food to water, must be imported.
But Nauru’s strength lies in its people, who face adversity with unwavering determination. They know that true richness doesn’t come from the ground but from the spirit that refuses to be crushed.
1. Vatican City
St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City. (Pier Paolo Cito/AP)
Population: 799
Welcome to the smallest and holiest country in the world – Vatican City. This tiny city-state, nestled within Rome, serves as the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. It’s a place of faith, history, and reverence.
Gaining citizenship in Vatican City is no easy task. With no hospitals inside its borders, you won’t become a citizen by birth or blood. Citizenship is instead awarded to those who reside and work within the city limits for the Vatican office. Cardinals, clergy, and diplomats of the Holy See also hold the privilege of calling Vatican City home.
In Conclusion
As we marvel at the grandeur of these small yet mighty countries, we realize that size truly doesn’t matter when it comes to wealth, beauty, and exclusivity. From the glamorous shores of Monaco to the resilience of Nauru, each of these countries has its own unique story to tell. So whether you’re a billionaire seeking the lap of luxury or an adventurer craving untouched landscapes, consider these hidden gems in our vast world.
Which country would you like to visit and experience its charm? Share your thoughts with us!
