As of January 2025, Martinique's population was estimated at 355,459 inhabitants. With a total area of 1,128 km² (436 sq. mi.), the island has a population density of approximately 329.12 inhabitants per km². Residents of Martinique are known as Martiniquais. The official language is French, while Martinican Creole—an Afro-Caribbean language shaped by the legacy of slavery—is also widely spoken. Though distinct, Creole shares many linguistic features with French and remains a vital part of the island’s cultural identity.
Distribution of Population
The three most populated municipalities in Martinique are all located in the central region of the island: Fort-de-France, the capital, with 81,006 inhabitants; Le Lamentin, with 40,481 inhabitants, and Le Robert with 22,928 inhabitants.
In contrast, the least populated municipalities are found in the north: Grand-Rivière with 731 inhabitants, Fonds-Saint-Denis with 742, and Macouba with 1,083.
The population of Martinique in numbers
Life expectancy at birth in Martinique is estimated at 78.6 years for men and 84.7 years for women—figures closely aligned with the French national average. According to INSEE, the infant mortality rate stood at 9.0 per 1,000 live births in 2010. Nearly 30% of the population falls within the 40 to 59 age bracket, making it the largest age group on the island. The average age of Martinicans was 45.7 years in 2020 and is projected to reach 57 by 2040 if current demographic trends continue unchecked. Women make up a majority of the population, accounting for 54%, compared to 46% for men.
The origins of the Martinican people
The Martinican population is very mixed. The vast majority are descendants of former African slaves from the 17th century and European settlers. Many Martinicans also descend from Indians who arrived at the end of the slavery era. Martinique has many metropolitan arrivals from France, as well as from Europe in more recent times. Some Martinicans are also descendants of Chinese and Syrians who arrived in the early 20th century. To better understand the different waves of population in Martinique, you can read our article on Martinique's history.
Immigration in Martinique
Martinique is one of the French departments with the lowest immigration rates. Less than 3% of its inhabitants were immigrants in 2010. However, many communities are present. About 115 people from foreign countries live in Martinique, mainly from the surrounding Caribbean islands. The two largest communities, St. Lucian and Haitian, represent nearly 60% of the immigrant population. The largest European community is Belgian.
Habitat in Martinique
Housing in Martinique consists mainly of individual houses built with reinforced concrete. There is little difference between urban and rural housing.
Martinique and religion
Martinicans are devout in their religious practice. Nearly 90% are practicing Christians, the large majority being Catholic. Main Protestant groups include Adventists, Evangelicals, Methodists, Baptists, and Pentecostals. Jehovah’s Witnesses are also very active.
Other minorities include Hindus, Muslims, and Jews, though their share is difficult to assess. In addition to officially recognized religions, there is also the belief in magical rites such as quimbois.