WILLEMSTAD - The population of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands has grown by 8 percent since 2011, according to the latest figures from the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). The increase is most notable on Bonaire, which has seen the fastest population growth of all the islands.

At the same time, the demographic makeup of the region is changing, with significant aging observed across the islands — particularly on Curaçao.

Sharp rise in elderly population on Curaçao

The share of residents aged 65 and older on Curaçao has risen dramatically:

25% of the population is now 65 or older 

Compared to 14% in 2011

This marks one of the most substantial demographic shifts in the region over the past decade.

Lower unemployment across all islands

CBS also reports that unemployment has declined on all islands of the Dutch Caribbean, reflecting a broader trend of economic recovery and labor market improvement.

Total population in 2025

As of 2025, the Caribbean part of the Kingdom counts over 330,000 residents:

Curaçao: 156,000 

Aruba: 108,000 

Sint Maarten: 43,000 (based on the most recent 2023 data)

The report highlights ongoing demographic changes that will play a major role in shaping future policy decisions involving healthcare, labor, pensions, and economic planning in the Dutch Caribbean.