Senegal: Population, Economy & Travel Facts

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

Population & Geography

Population
15,854,360
#72 of 197 countries
Area
196,722 km²
#89 of 248 countries
Density
80.6 / km²
#132 of 245 countries

Senegal has a population of 15,854,360 spread across 196,722 km², giving it an average density of 80.6 people per km².

Most Populous Cities

Dakar
2,646,503
14790 / km²
Touba
1,120,824
2255 / km²
Pikine
874,062
19608 / km²
Guédiawaye
329,659
15934 / km²
Kaolack
298,904
3042 / km²
Rufisque
295,459
3130 / km²
M'Bour
284,189
3298 / km²
Saint-Louis, Senegal
254,171
6374 / km²
Thiès Nones
252,320
1181 / km²
Ziguinchor
214,874
1743 / km²

Demographics

Median Age
19.4
Life Expectancy
70.6 yrs
Literacy Rate
50.4%
Government
presidential republic
Ethnic Groups
Religions
GDP by Sector

Economy & Cost of Living

Understanding the local economy helps travellers budget effectively and set expectations. Senegal is classified as a lower middle income country by the World Bank. Prices are roughly 36% of US levels, meaning your money goes significantly further here — accommodation, food, and transport are very affordable by Western standards.

Income Level
Lower middle income
GDP per Capita
$1,698
Cost of Living
36% of US
Inflation
5.9%
Inequality
36.2
Moderate