What is the population of Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka has approximately 23.3 million inhabitants according to United Nations projections for 2026. This population is mainly concentrated in the island's urban and coastal areas.
Current Population of Sri Lanka
The Sri Lankan population stands at 23.3 million inhabitants according to the latest demographic projections from the United Nations. This estimate reflects moderate population growth compared to previous decades.
Geographic Distribution
Population density varies considerably across the island:
- Colombo Urban Area: highest concentration with over 2 million inhabitants
- Central Provinces: average density around cities like Kandy
- Northern and Eastern Regions: less densely populated
- Coastal Areas: high concentration due to economic activities
Key Takeaways
This population of 23.3 million makes Sri Lanka a medium-sized country in South Asia, with an area of 65,610 km². Current demographic growth is relatively stable, with a declining birth rate.