Gabon: Population, Economy & Travel Facts

Essential data for planning your trip to Gabon — from population and demographics to economic indicators, healthcare infrastructure, tourism trends, and digital connectivity.

Population & Geography

Population
2,119,275
#143 of 197 countries
Area
267,667 km²
#77 of 248 countries
Density
7.9 / km²
#226 of 245 countries

Gabon has a population of 2,119,275 spread across 267,667 km², giving it an average density of 7.9 people per km². With such low density, expect wide open spaces and a sense of remoteness outside major cities.

Most Populous Cities

Stade Omar Bongo
846,090
4059 / km²
Port-Gentil
164,018
155 / km²
Franceville
132,895
293 / km²
Owendo
95,313
2137 / km²
Oyem
72,939
72 / km²
Moanda, Gabon
71,099
160 / km²
Ntoum
62,445
9 / km²
Lambaréné
46,605
48 / km²
Mouila
43,342
50 / km²
Tchibanga
36,108
33 / km²

Demographics

Median Age
22.3
Life Expectancy
70.4 yrs
Literacy Rate
88.9%
Government
presidential republic
Ethnic Groups
Religions
GDP by Sector

Economy & Cost of Living

Understanding the local economy helps travellers budget effectively and set expectations. Gabon is classified as an upper middle income country by the World Bank. Prices are roughly 38% of US levels, meaning your money goes significantly further here — accommodation, food, and transport are very affordable by Western standards.

Income Level
Upper middle income
GDP per Capita
$7,803
Cost of Living
38% of US
Inflation
3.6%
Inequality
38.0
Moderate