Formentera is the smallest inhabited island in the Balearics and one of the Mediterranean’s most unique destinations. Its limited size and strong tourist appeal mean the population varies significantly throughout the year, particularly during the summer season. Discover Formentera’s population and how the island’s numbers change during the busiest months.
Formentera's population
According to the Spanish Statistics Institute's (INE) official data for 2025, Formentera has a population of 11,690 residents. This makes it the least populated of the Balearic Islands, well behind Mallorca (971,068), Menorca (102,821) and Ibiza (164,265).
In a national context, Formentera’s population is comparable to that of El Hierro in the Canary Islands and to mainland municipalities such as Lardero (La Rioja), Cocentaina (Alicante), Quintanar de la Orden (Toledo) and Pulpí (Almería).
How many inhabitants are there on Formentera in summer?
Formentera's population increases sharply during the summer months. According to IBESTAT data from recent years, the island’s population regularly exceeds 30,000 people during this period – effectively tripling its resident population.
In summer 2024, the highest figure was recorded on 9 August, when 34,499 people were present on the island. Even so, this remained below the all-time record set on 11 August 2017, when 40,994 people were counted in Formentera.
At the opposite end of the scale, the lowest population levels are recorded during winter. On 31 December 2024, for example, the island’s population stood at just 9,208 people.
Which is the most populated town on Formentera?
The most populated settlement on the island is Sant Francesc de Formentera – the administrative capital, with around 3,000 residents. It is home to the island’s main public services, shops and government buildings.
Other important population centres include Sant Ferran de ses Roques, traditionally associated with the island’s cultural and tourism scene; Es Pujols, the main area for hotels and holiday apartments; and La Savina, the island’s maritime gateway thanks to its port.
Living on Formentera
Living on Formentera means adapting to a small island environment shaped by seasonality. During the winter months, the island returns to a quieter pace of life, with lower levels of economic activity and less pressure on local services and infrastructure.
Access to housing and the cost of living are among the main challenges for residents, particularly due to strong tourism demand. In contrast, the island’s environmental quality, the proximity of its towns and villages, and its strong sense of community are advantages that many residents greatly value.
