White Population in Jamaica: 2011 Census Data
According to the 2011 Jamaica Population and Housing Census, the ethnic composition was:
| Ethnic Group | Percentage | Population |
|---|
| Black / African Descent | 92.1% | ~2,622,000 |
| Mixed Race | 6.1% | ~174,000 |
| White / European Descent | 0.8% | ~22,800 |
| Chinese | 0.2% | ~5,700 |
| Other (incl. Indian, Middle Eastern, Indigenous) | 0.1% | ~2,800 |
| Not Stated | 0.7% | ~20,000 |
Total Population: 2,847,000 (2011)
Historical Context
- Peak White Population: ~30,000 (late 18th c., plantation era).
- Post-Emancipation (1838): Steady decline due to emigration, intermarriage, reclassification.
- 20th Century: Further decline post-independence (1962); many professionals left.
Who Are the White Jamaicans?
- Descendants of British, Irish, Scottish, German, Portuguese settlers.
- Concentrated in Kingston (St. Andrew), St. James (Montego Bay), St. Ann (Ocho Rios).
- Include expatriates, retirees, and return migrants (not counted in census if non-resident).
Limitations
- Self-identification; "Mixed" category growing (6.1% → likely higher now).
- 2021 Census delayed (COVID); next data expected 2025+.
- Tourists/short-term residents excluded.
Comparison
Jamaica's 0.8% white population contrasts with other Caribbean nations: Barbados (2.7%), Trinidad (0.6% white, but 22% Indian), Bahamas (4.7%), Cuba (64% white per 2012).
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