Puerto Rico

La Isla del Encanto (The Island of Enchantment)

Basic Information

Puerto Rico combines Caribbean culture with American influences as a U.S. territory.

Capital

  • San Juan

Largest City

  • San Juan

Area

  • 3,515 sq mi (9,104 km²)

Population

  • 3.2 million (2020)

Demographics

Puerto Rico's population reflects its Spanish colonial heritage and modern American influence.

Ethnic Composition

  • Hispanic or Latino:98.7%
  • White alone:0.8%
  • Black alone:0.3%
  • Other:0.2%

Languages

  • Spanish:95.5%
  • English and Spanish:4.3%
  • English only:0.2%

Age Distribution

  • Under 18:19.8%
  • 18-64:61.5%
  • 65+:18.7%

Economy

Puerto Rico's economy is closely tied to the United States, with a focus on manufacturing and services.

Economic Indicators

  • GDP:$104.2 billion
  • Per Capita Income:$32,000
  • Unemployment Rate:8.5%

Major Industries

  • Manufacturing
  • Tourism
  • Agriculture
  • Pharmaceuticals

Trade

  • Main Export Partners:US Mainland
  • Key Exports:Pharmaceuticals, Electronics
  • Tourism Revenue:$7 billion annually

Territory Symbols

Official symbols that represent Puerto Rico's heritage and culture.

Official Symbols

  • Bird:
    Puerto Rican Spindalis
  • Tree:
    Silk Cotton Tree (Ceiba)
  • Flower:
    Puerto Rican Hibiscus
  • Musical Instrument:
    Cuatro
  • Colors:
    Red, White, and Blue

Territory Facts

Puerto Rico holds many unique distinctions within the United States territories.

Historical Facts

  • Discovery:
    November 19, 1493
  • Spanish Colony:
    1493-1898
  • U.S. Territory:
    Since 1898
  • U.S. Citizenship:
    1917

Geographic Facts

  • Largest Caribbean U.S. Territory
  • Easternmost Point of Greater Antilles
  • Contains El Yunque Rainforest
  • Surrounded by Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea

Cultural Facts

  • Oldest City Under U.S. Flag (San Juan)
  • Rich Musical Heritage (Salsa, Reggaeton)
  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
    2
  • Vibrant Festival Traditions