Vatican City Tops List: World's 8 Least Populated Nations in 2025

• Several countries, predominantly island nations or microstates, have fewer inhabitants than many towns, known for their peaceful life, landscapes, and unique cultures.
• Vatican City is the world's least populated country with ~800-880 residents, also the smallest by land area, serving as the spiritual heart of the Roman Catholic Church.
• Niue (~1,800-1,900 people) and Tuvalu (~10,000-11,000 people) are South Pacific island nations known for natural beauty, marine biodiversity, and calm island life.
• Nauru (~12,000-13,000 people) and Cook Island (~14,000-17,000 people) offer unique sights like Moqua Caves and vibrant tropical scenery with lagoon cruises.
• Palau (~18,000 residents), San Marino (~34,000 people), and Marshall Islands (~42,800 people) are also among the least populated, featuring diverse attractions from rock islands to historic fortresses.

Why It Matters: Population size doesn't define a nation's character or significance.