Country Profile: Bermuda
Bermuda, first settled in 1609, is an archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean, notable for its subtropical climate and rich history as a British Overseas Territory with a population of approximately 72,800. The economy is primarily driven by international business, particularly offshore finance, along with tourism as a significant sector, attracting visitors seeking to escape colder climates. Bermuda operates a parliamentary democracy with limited self-governance under British rule, with Hamilton serving as its capital.
Geography
Bermuda is situated east of South Carolina in the North Atlantic Ocean and comprises over 170 coral islands and islets with an area of just 54 sq km. The terrain features low hills and fertile depressions, supporting a subtropical climate characterized by humidity and strong winter winds. While hurricanes pose a natural threat, Bermuda's strategic location and maritime resources contribute to its unique geographical importance.
- 103 km of coastline.
- 200 nm exclusive economic zone.
- 14.4% of land designated as forest.
- 5.6% of land used for agriculture (2023 est.).
- 0 km of land boundaries.
- Highest point is Town Hill at 79 m.
People and Society
Bermuda's population is diverse, with a mix of ethnicities including 52% of African descent and 31% White as per the 2010 estimates. The official language is English, and the predominant religion is Protestantism, which is practiced by 46.2% of the population. The society boasts a high urbanization rate, with 100% of residents living in urban areas and a median age of 43.9 years, indicative of a mature demographic landscape.
- An estimated 72,800 residents (2024 est.).
- 82.5 years is the life expectancy at birth (2024 est.).
- 10.82 births per 1,000 population (2025 est.).
- 2.1 deaths per 1,000 live births (2025 est.).
- 49.7% of women aged 15-49 are currently married (2016 est.).
- 64.1 total dependency ratio (2024 est.).
Economy
Bermuda's economy is characterized as small and primarily service-oriented, with a significant focus on international business and tourism. The GDP has shown robust growth, with a real GDP per capita reaching approximately $105,300 in 2024, indicating a high standard of living. The island is also known for being a hub for offshore banking, further bolstering its economic profile.
- 91.5% of GDP is derived from the services sector (2023 est.).
- $6.808 billion real GDP (PPP) estimated for 2024.
- 4.9% real GDP growth rate in 2023.
- Exports estimated at $1.599 billion in 2023.
- Imports estimated at $2.3 billion in 2023.
- 23.7% of GDP from remittances (2023 est.).
- Inflation rate was 2.8% in 2022.
Government
Bermuda functions as an Overseas Territory of the UK with a parliamentary democracy, enjoying a significant degree of self-governance. The political framework includes a bicameral parliament, consisting of a House of Assembly and a Senate. The Governor, appointed by the British monarch, acts as the chief of state, while the Premier serves as the head of government.
- Hamilton is the capital city.
- 36 seats in the House of Assembly, last elected in 2020.
- 11 seats in the Senate, with significant female representation at 63.6%.
- Citizens must be 18 years or older to vote.
- The current Premier is David Burt (since 2017).
Military and Security
Bermuda maintains a small military presence through the Royal Bermuda Regiment, which consists of about 350 personnel. The UK is responsible for Bermuda's defense, with the regiment handling maritime security and public order tasks, in collaboration with local police forces.
- The Royal Bermuda Regiment comprises approximately 350 troops (2025).
- Defense responsibilities are supported by the UK.
- The Regimental service period is a minimum of three years.
- Equipped mainly with small arms for defense.
Energy
Bermuda has achieved full electrification, ensuring that 100% of its population has access to electricity. The island primarily relies on fossil fuels for energy generation, with a small contribution from other sources like biomass and waste.
- Total installed electricity generating capacity is 172,000 kW (2023).
- 590.38 million kWh of electricity consumed (2023).
- 99% of energy generation capacity from fossil fuels (2023).
- 122.737 million Btu/person of total energy consumption per capita (2023).
Environment
Environmental challenges for Bermuda include air pollution, water resource scarcity, and solid waste management. The island’s ecological health is influenced by its subtropical climate, which fosters diverse flora and fauna, but also creates vulnerabilities to hurricanes.
- 577,000 metric tonnes of CO2 emissions recorded (2023).
- 5.6% of land used for agriculture (2023).
- 2% of municipal solid waste recycled (2012).
- Urban population accounts for 100% of total residents (2023).
Transportation
Bermuda possesses a single major airport and boasts a notable maritime presence with a merchant marine fleet, facilitating both international trade and tourism.
- 1 airport is operational (2025).
- 122 vessels in the merchant marine (2023).
- Major ports include Freeport and Hamilton.
- 4 total ports, with three equipped for oil terminals.
Communications
The communications infrastructure in Bermuda is advanced, with a high penetration of mobile phone usage and internet access among the population. This connectivity supports both the local economy and international business operations.
- Mobile cellular subscriptions total 68,164 (2022).
- Fixed-line telephone subscriptions are around 25,000 (2021).
- 98% internet penetration rate (2017).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 72,800 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 54 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $6.808 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Real GDP per capita | $105,300 | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 10.82 births/1,000 | 2025 estimate |
| Death Rate | 9.4 deaths/1,000 | 2025 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 82.5 years | 2024 estimate |
| Total Energy Consumption per Capita | 122.737 million Btu/person | 2023 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | Not specified |
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