
Estonia
EuropeEN January 20, 2026




Background
After centuries of Danish, Swedish, German, and Russian rule, Estonia attained independence in 1918. Forcibly incorporated into the USSR in 1940 -- an action never recognized by the US and many other countries -- it regained its freedom in 1991 with the collapse of the Soviet Union. Since the last Russian troops left in 1994, Estonia has been free to promote economic and political ties with the West. It joined both NATO and the EU in 2004, formally joined the OECD in 2010, and adopted the euro as its official currency in 2011.
Geographic coordinates
59 00 N, 26 00 E
Natural hazards
sometimes flooding occurs in the spring
Area - comparative
about twice the size of New Jersey
Environmental issues
air pollution from sulfur dioxide from oil-shale-burning power plants; coastal seawater pollution
International environmental agreements
Party to: Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Heavy Metals, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Persistent Organic Pollutants, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands, Whaling
Signed, but not ratified: None of the selected agreements
Signed, but not ratified: None of the selected agreements
Climate
maritime; wet, moderate winters, cool summers
Coastline
3,794 km
Land boundaries
Total: 657 km
Border countries (2): Latvia 333 km; Russia 324 km
Border countries (2): Latvia 333 km; Russia 324 km
Land use
Agricultural land: 23.1% (2023 est.)
Arable land: 16.6% (2023 est.)
Permanent crops: 0.1% (2023 est.)
Permanent pasture: 6.4% (2023 est.)
Forest: 57.2% (2023 est.)
Other: 19.6% (2023 est.)
Arable land: 16.6% (2023 est.)
Permanent crops: 0.1% (2023 est.)
Permanent pasture: 6.4% (2023 est.)
Forest: 57.2% (2023 est.)
Other: 19.6% (2023 est.)
Maritime claims
Territorial sea: 12 nm
Exclusive economic zone: Limits as agreed to by Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Sweden, and Russia
Exclusive economic zone: Limits as agreed to by Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Sweden, and Russia
Natural resources
oil shale, peat, rare earth elements, phosphorite, clay, limestone, sand, dolomite, arable land, sea mud
Geography - note
the mainland terrain is flat, boggy, and partly wooded; over 1,500 islands lie offshore
Terrain
marshy, lowlands; flat in the north, hilly in the south
Location
Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Finland, between Latvia and Russia
Map references
Europe
Irrigated land
20 sq km (2016)
Total renewable water resources
12.806 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Population distribution
a fairly even distribution throughout most of the country, with urban areas attracting larger and denser populations
Elevation
Highest point: Suur Munamagi 318 m
Lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m
Mean elevation: 61 m
Lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m
Mean elevation: 61 m
Major lakes (area sq km)
Fresh water lake(s): Lake Peipus - 4,300 sq km (shared with Russia); Lake Võrtsjärv - 270 sq km
Area
Total : 45,228 sq km
Land: 42,388 sq km
Water: 2,840 sq km
Note: Includes 1,520 islands in the Baltic Sea
Land: 42,388 sq km
Water: 2,840 sq km
Note: Includes 1,520 islands in the Baltic Sea
Age structure
0-14 years: 15.2% (male 92,980/female 88,753)
15-64 years: 62.2% (male 373,989/female 368,113)
65 years and over: 22.6% (2024 est.) (male 96,110/female 173,846)
15-64 years: 62.2% (male 373,989/female 368,113)
65 years and over: 22.6% (2024 est.) (male 96,110/female 173,846)
Sex ratio
At birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.55 male(s)/female
Total population: 0.89 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.55 male(s)/female
Total population: 0.89 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Nationality
Noun: Estonian(s)
Adjective: Estonian
Adjective: Estonian
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
Total: 16 years (2023 est.)
Male: 15 years (2023 est.)
Female: 16 years (2023 est.)
Male: 15 years (2023 est.)
Female: 16 years (2023 est.)
Urbanization
Urban population: 69.8% of total population (2023)
Rate of urbanization: -0.03% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Rate of urbanization: -0.03% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Drinking water source
Improved:
Urban: 100% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 100% of population (2022 est.) NA
Total: 100% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 0% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 0% of population (2022 est.) NA
Total: 0% of population (2022 est.)
Urban: 100% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 100% of population (2022 est.) NA
Total: 100% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 0% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 0% of population (2022 est.) NA
Total: 0% of population (2022 est.)
Major urban areas - population
454,000 TALLINN (capital) (2023)
Physician density
3.47 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Hospital bed density
4.5 beds/1,000 population (2020 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth
28.2 years (2020 est.)
Sanitation facility access
Improved:
Urban: 99.7% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 100% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 99.8% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 0.3% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 0% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 0.2% of population (2022 est.)
Urban: 99.7% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 100% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 99.8% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 0.3% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 0% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 0.2% of population (2022 est.)
Ethnic groups
Estonian 69.1%, Russian 23.7%, Ukrainian 2.1%, other 4.6%, unspecified 0.5% (2021 est.)
Religions
Orthodox 16.5%, Protestant 9.2% (Lutheran 7.7%, other Protestant 1.5%), other 3% (includes Roman Catholic, Muslim, Jehovah's Witness, Pentecostal, Buddhist, and Taara Believer), none 58.4%, unspecified 12.9% (2021 est.)
Languages
Estonian (official) 67.2%, Russian 28.5%, other 3.7%, unspecified 0.6% (2021est.)
Health expenditure
6.9% of GDP (2022)
13.2% of national budget (2022 est.)
13.2% of national budget (2022 est.)
Gross reproduction rate
0.66 (2025 est.)
Currently married women (ages 15-49)
54.1% (2021 est.)
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
Total: 20.9% (2024 est.)
Male: 21.9% (2024 est.)
Female: 20% (2024 est.)
note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Male: 21.9% (2024 est.)
Female: 20% (2024 est.)
note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Net migration rate
0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2025 est.)
Median age
Total: 42.9 years (2025 est.)
Male: 41.9 years
Female: 48.2 years
Male: 41.9 years
Female: 48.2 years
Maternal mortality ratio
5 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Total fertility rate
1.36 children born/woman (2025 est.)
Infant mortality rate
Total: 2 deaths/1,000 live births (2025 est.)
Male: 3.2 deaths/1,000 live births
Female: 3.4 deaths/1,000 live births
Male: 3.2 deaths/1,000 live births
Female: 3.4 deaths/1,000 live births
Tobacco use
Total: 23.7% (2025 est.)
Male: 29.9% (2025 est.)
Female: 18.3% (2025 est.)
Male: 29.9% (2025 est.)
Female: 18.3% (2025 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
21.2% (2016)
Death rate
12.57 deaths/1,000 population (2025 est.)
Birth rate
7.86 births/1,000 population (2025 est.)
Alcohol consumption per capita
Total: 11.65 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Beer: 4 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Wine: 1.92 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Spirits: 4.6 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Other alcohols: 1.13 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Beer: 4 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Wine: 1.92 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Spirits: 4.6 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Other alcohols: 1.13 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Life expectancy at birth
Total population: 78.4 years (2024 est.)
Male: 73.8 years
Female: 83.2 years
Male: 73.8 years
Female: 83.2 years
Education expenditure
5.2% of GDP (2022 est.)
13% national budget (2022 est.)
13% national budget (2022 est.)
Population growth rate
-0.47% (2025 est.)
Dependency ratios
Total dependency ratio: 57.5 (2025 est.)
Youth dependency ratio: 24.8 (2025 est.)
Elderly dependency ratio: 32.7 (2025 est.)
Potential support ratio: 3.1 (2025 est.)
Youth dependency ratio: 24.8 (2025 est.)
Elderly dependency ratio: 32.7 (2025 est.)
Potential support ratio: 3.1 (2025 est.)
Population
Total: 1,340,478 (2025 est.)
Male: 634,988
Female: 705,490
Male: 634,988
Female: 705,490
Total water withdrawal
Municipal: 64.998 million cubic meters (2022)
Industrial: 1.135 billion cubic meters (2022)
Agricultural: 5 million cubic meters (2022)
Industrial: 1.135 billion cubic meters (2022)
Agricultural: 5 million cubic meters (2022)
Waste and recycling
Municipal solid waste generated annually: 489,500 tons (2024 est.)
Percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 39.1% (2022 est.)
Percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 39.1% (2022 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
6.6 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
4.607 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From coal and metallurgical coke: -19,814 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From petroleum and other liquids: 3.977 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From consumed natural gas: 649,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From coal and metallurgical coke: -19,814 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From petroleum and other liquids: 3.977 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From consumed natural gas: 649,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Energy consumption per capita
73.679 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Roman PIPKO (since 26 November 2025)
Embassy: Kentmanni 20, 15099 Tallinn
Mailing address: 4530 Tallinn Place, Washington DC 20521-4530
Telephone: [372] 668-8100
FAX: [372] 668-8265
Email address and website:
Acstallinn@state.gov
https://ee.usembassy.gov/
Embassy: Kentmanni 20, 15099 Tallinn
Mailing address: 4530 Tallinn Place, Washington DC 20521-4530
Telephone: [372] 668-8100
FAX: [372] 668-8265
Email address and website:
Acstallinn@state.gov
https://ee.usembassy.gov/
Administrative divisions
15 urban municipalities (linnad, singular - linn), 64 rural municipalities (vallad, singular - vald)
Urban municipalities: Haapsalu, Keila, Kohtla-Jarve, Loksa, Maardu, Narva, Narva-Joesuu, Paide, Parnu, Rakvere, Sillamae, Tallinn, Tartu, Viljandi, Voru
Rural municipalities: Alutaguse, Anija, Antsla, Elva, Haademeeste, Haljala, Harku, Hiiumaa, Jarva, Joelahtme, Jogeva, Johvi, Kadrina, Kambja, Kanepi, Kastre, Kehtna, Kihnu, Kiili, Kohila, Kose, Kuusalu, Laane-Harju, Laane-Nigula, Laaneranna, Luganuse, Luunja, Marjamaa, Muhu, Mulgi, Mustvee, Noo, Otepaa, Peipsiaare, Pohja-Parnumaa, Pohja-Sakala, Poltsamaa, Polva, Raasiku, Rae, Rakvere, Räpina, Rapla, Rouge, Ruhnu, Saarde, Saaremaa, Saku, Saue, Setomaa, Tapa, Tartu, Toila, Tori, Torva, Turi, Vaike-Maarja, Valga, Viimsi, Viljandi, Vinni, Viru-Nigula, Vormsi, Voru
Urban municipalities: Haapsalu, Keila, Kohtla-Jarve, Loksa, Maardu, Narva, Narva-Joesuu, Paide, Parnu, Rakvere, Sillamae, Tallinn, Tartu, Viljandi, Voru
Rural municipalities: Alutaguse, Anija, Antsla, Elva, Haademeeste, Haljala, Harku, Hiiumaa, Jarva, Joelahtme, Jogeva, Johvi, Kadrina, Kambja, Kanepi, Kastre, Kehtna, Kihnu, Kiili, Kohila, Kose, Kuusalu, Laane-Harju, Laane-Nigula, Laaneranna, Luganuse, Luunja, Marjamaa, Muhu, Mulgi, Mustvee, Noo, Otepaa, Peipsiaare, Pohja-Parnumaa, Pohja-Sakala, Poltsamaa, Polva, Raasiku, Rae, Rakvere, Räpina, Rapla, Rouge, Ruhnu, Saarde, Saaremaa, Saku, Saue, Setomaa, Tapa, Tartu, Toila, Tori, Torva, Turi, Vaike-Maarja, Valga, Viimsi, Viljandi, Vinni, Viru-Nigula, Vormsi, Voru
Capital
Name: Tallinn
Geographic coordinates: 59 26 N, 24 43 E
Time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
Etymology: The name derives from the Old Estonian term tan-linn, meaning "Danish fort," a reference to Danish King VALDEMAR II founding the city in 1219
Geographic coordinates: 59 26 N, 24 43 E
Time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
Etymology: The name derives from the Old Estonian term tan-linn, meaning "Danish fort," a reference to Danish King VALDEMAR II founding the city in 1219
Constitution
History: Several previous; latest adopted 28 June 1992, entered into force 3 July 1992
Amendment process: Proposed by at least one-fifth of Parliament members or by the president of the republic; passage requires three readings of the proposed amendment and a simple majority vote in two successive memberships of Parliament; passage of amendments to the "General Provisions" and "Amendment of the Constitution" chapters requires at least three-fifths majority vote by Parliament to conduct a referendum and majority vote in a referendum
Amendment process: Proposed by at least one-fifth of Parliament members or by the president of the republic; passage requires three readings of the proposed amendment and a simple majority vote in two successive memberships of Parliament; passage of amendments to the "General Provisions" and "Amendment of the Constitution" chapters requires at least three-fifths majority vote by Parliament to conduct a referendum and majority vote in a referendum
Executive branch
Chief of state: President Alar KARIS (since 11 October 2021)
Head of government: Prime Minister Kristen MICHAL (since 23 July 2024)
Cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the prime minister, approved by Parliament
Election/appointment process: President indirectly elected by Parliament for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); if a candidate does not secure two thirds of the votes after 3 rounds of balloting, then an electoral college consisting of Parliament members and local council members elects the president, choosing between the 2 candidates with the most votes; if a president is still not elected, the process begins again; prime minister nominated by the president and approved by Parliament
Most recent election date: 30-31 August 2021
Election results:
2021: Alar KARIS (independent) elected president; won second round of voting in parliament with 72 of 101 votes
2016: Kersti KALJULAID elected president; won sixth round of voting in parliament with 81 of 98 votes (17 ballots blank); KALJULAID sworn in on 10 October 2016 - first female head of state of Estonia
Expected date of next election: 2026
Head of government: Prime Minister Kristen MICHAL (since 23 July 2024)
Cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the prime minister, approved by Parliament
Election/appointment process: President indirectly elected by Parliament for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); if a candidate does not secure two thirds of the votes after 3 rounds of balloting, then an electoral college consisting of Parliament members and local council members elects the president, choosing between the 2 candidates with the most votes; if a president is still not elected, the process begins again; prime minister nominated by the president and approved by Parliament
Most recent election date: 30-31 August 2021
Election results:
2021: Alar KARIS (independent) elected president; won second round of voting in parliament with 72 of 101 votes
2016: Kersti KALJULAID elected president; won sixth round of voting in parliament with 81 of 98 votes (17 ballots blank); KALJULAID sworn in on 10 October 2016 - first female head of state of Estonia
Expected date of next election: 2026
Flag
Description: Three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), black, and white
Meaning: Blue stands for faith, loyalty, and devotion, and also the sky, sea, and lakes; black for the country's soil and the Estonian people's past suffering; white for striving for enlightenment and virtue and also for birch bark, snow, and summer nights illuminated by the midnight sun
Meaning: Blue stands for faith, loyalty, and devotion, and also the sky, sea, and lakes; black for the country's soil and the Estonian people's past suffering; white for striving for enlightenment and virtue and also for birch bark, snow, and summer nights illuminated by the midnight sun
Independence
24 February 1918 (from Soviet Russia); 20 August 1991 (declared from the Soviet Union); 6 September 1991 (recognized by the Soviet Union)
Judicial branch
Highest court(s): Supreme Court (consists of 19 justices, including the chief justice, and organized into civil, criminal, administrative, and constitutional review chambers)
Judge selection and term of office: The chief justice is proposed by the president of the republic and appointed by the Riigikogu; other justices proposed by the chief justice and appointed by the Riigikogu; justices appointed for life
Subordinate courts: Circuit (appellate) courts; administrative, county, city, and specialized courts
Judge selection and term of office: The chief justice is proposed by the president of the republic and appointed by the Riigikogu; other justices proposed by the chief justice and appointed by the Riigikogu; justices appointed for life
Subordinate courts: Circuit (appellate) courts; administrative, county, city, and specialized courts
Legal system
civil law system
Legislative branch
Legislature name: The Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu)
Legislative structure: Unicameral
Number of seats: 101 (all directly elected)
Electoral system: Proportional representation
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 4 years
Most recent election date: 3/5/2023
Parties elected and seats per party: Reform Party (37); Conservative People's Party (EKRE) (17); Centre Party (16); Estonia 200 (Eesti 200) (14); Social Democratic Party (9); Pro Patria (Isamaa) (8)
Percentage of women in chamber: 28.7%
Expected date of next election: March 2027
Legislative structure: Unicameral
Number of seats: 101 (all directly elected)
Electoral system: Proportional representation
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 4 years
Most recent election date: 3/5/2023
Parties elected and seats per party: Reform Party (37); Conservative People's Party (EKRE) (17); Centre Party (16); Estonia 200 (Eesti 200) (14); Social Democratic Party (9); Pro Patria (Isamaa) (8)
Percentage of women in chamber: 28.7%
Expected date of next election: March 2027
International organization participation
Australia Group, BA, BIS, CBSS, CD, CE, EAPC, EBRD, ECB, EIB, EMU, ESA (cooperating state), EU, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NATO, NIB, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OIF (observer), OPCW, OSCE, PCA, Schengen Convention, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNTSO, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
National holiday
Independence Day, 24 February (1918)
Note: 24 February 1918 was the date Estonia declared its independence from Soviet Russia and established its statehood; 20 August 1991 was the date it declared its independence from the Soviet Union and restored its statehood
Note: 24 February 1918 was the date Estonia declared its independence from Soviet Russia and established its statehood; 20 August 1991 was the date it declared its independence from the Soviet Union and restored its statehood
Political parties
Conservative People's Party of Estonia (Konservatiivne Rahvaerakond) or EKRE
Estonia 200 or E200
Estonia Centre Party of (Keskerakond) or EK
Estonian Free Party or VAP
Estonian Freedom Party - Farmers' Assembly or V-PK
Estonian Greens or EER
Estonian Nationalists and Conservatives or ERK
Estonian Reform Party (Reformierakond) or RE
Fatherland or I
Left Alliance or VL
Social Democratic Party or SDE
The Right or PP
TOGETHER organization points to sovereignty or KOOS
Estonia 200 or E200
Estonia Centre Party of (Keskerakond) or EK
Estonian Free Party or VAP
Estonian Freedom Party - Farmers' Assembly or V-PK
Estonian Greens or EER
Estonian Nationalists and Conservatives or ERK
Estonian Reform Party (Reformierakond) or RE
Fatherland or I
Left Alliance or VL
Social Democratic Party or SDE
The Right or PP
TOGETHER organization points to sovereignty or KOOS
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal; age 16 for local elections
Government type
parliamentary republic
Country name
Conventional long form: Republic of Estonia
Conventional short form: Estonia
Local long form: Eesti Vabariik
Local short form: Eesti
Former: Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic (while occupied by the USSR)
Etymology: Derives from the name of the people who lived along the eastern Baltic Sea in the first centuries A.D., which came from the Baltic word aueist, meaning "waterside dwellers"
Conventional short form: Estonia
Local long form: Eesti Vabariik
Local short form: Eesti
Former: Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic (while occupied by the USSR)
Etymology: Derives from the name of the people who lived along the eastern Baltic Sea in the first centuries A.D., which came from the Baltic word aueist, meaning "waterside dwellers"
Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Kristjan PRIKK (since 7 July 2021)
Chancery: 2131 Massachusetts Ave, NW
Washington, DC, 20008
Telephone: [1] (202) 588-0101
FAX: [1] (202) 588-0108
Email address and website:
Embassy.Washington@mfa.ee
https://washington.mfa.ee/
Consulate(s) general: New York, San Francisco
Chancery: 2131 Massachusetts Ave, NW
Washington, DC, 20008
Telephone: [1] (202) 588-0101
FAX: [1] (202) 588-0108
Email address and website:
Embassy.Washington@mfa.ee
https://washington.mfa.ee/
Consulate(s) general: New York, San Francisco
National anthem(s)
Title: "Mu isamaa, mu onn ja room" (My Native Land, My Pride and Joy)
Lyrics/music: Johann Voldemar JANNSEN/Fredrik PACIUS
History: Adopted 1920, but banned between 1940 and 1990 under Soviet occupation; unofficially in use since 1869, it has the same melody as Finland's anthem, but with different lyrics
Lyrics/music: Johann Voldemar JANNSEN/Fredrik PACIUS
History: Adopted 1920, but banned between 1940 and 1990 under Soviet occupation; unofficially in use since 1869, it has the same melody as Finland's anthem, but with different lyrics
International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
National symbol(s)
barn swallow, cornflower
Citizenship
Citizenship by birth: No
Citizenship by descent only: At least one parent must be a citizen of Estonia
Dual citizenship recognized: No
Residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Citizenship by descent only: At least one parent must be a citizen of Estonia
Dual citizenship recognized: No
Residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
National heritage
Total World Heritage Sites: 2 (both cultural)
Selected World Heritage Site locales: Historic Center (Old Town) of Tallinn; Struve Geodetic Arc
Selected World Heritage Site locales: Historic Center (Old Town) of Tallinn; Struve Geodetic Arc
National color(s)
blue, black, white
Population below poverty line
22.5% (2022 est.)
note: % of population with income below national poverty line
note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Household income or consumption by percentage share
Lowest 10%: 2.8% (2022 est.)
Highest 10%: 24.4% (2022 est.)
note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Highest 10%: 24.4% (2022 est.)
note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Exports - commodities
cars, wood, broadcasting equipment, refined petroleum, prefabricated buildings (2023)
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Exports - partners
Finland 14%, Latvia 10%, Lithuania 9%, Sweden 7%, Russia 6% (2023)
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Agricultural products
milk, wheat, barley, rapeseed, peas, oats, potatoes, rye, pork, triticale (2023)
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Budget
Revenues: $15.784 billion (2023 est.)
Expenditures: $16.721 billion (2023 est.)
note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Expenditures: $16.721 billion (2023 est.)
note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Imports - commodities
cars, refined petroleum, broadcasting equipment, natural gas, packaged medicine (2023)
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Exchange rates
euros (EUR) per US dollar -
Exchange rates:
0.924 (2024 est.)
0.925 (2023 est.)
0.95 (2022 est.)
0.845 (2021 est.)
0.876 (2020 est.)
Exchange rates:
0.924 (2024 est.)
0.925 (2023 est.)
0.95 (2022 est.)
0.845 (2021 est.)
0.876 (2020 est.)
Industries
food, engineering, electronics, wood and wood products, textiles; information technology, telecommunications
Economic overview
High-income, service-based EU and eurozone economy; rebound in exports playing a role in economic recovery; rising food prices contributing to inflation; decrease in labor force participation and rising unemployment rate; recovery depends on boosting private investment and productivity rates
GDP (official exchange rate)
$42.765 billion (2024 est.)
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate
GDP - composition, by end use
Household consumption: 52.3% (2023 est.)
Government consumption: 20.6% (2023 est.)
Investment in fixed capital: 27.9% (2023 est.)
Investment in inventories: -0.2% (2023 est.)
Exports of goods and services: 77.9% (2023 est.)
Imports of goods and services: -77% (2023 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Government consumption: 20.6% (2023 est.)
Investment in fixed capital: 27.9% (2023 est.)
Investment in inventories: -0.2% (2023 est.)
Exports of goods and services: 77.9% (2023 est.)
Imports of goods and services: -77% (2023 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Imports - partners
Finland 11%, Germany 11%, China 10%, Lithuania 6%, Poland 6% (2023)
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Average household expenditures
On food: 19.9% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
On alcohol and tobacco: 6.7% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
On alcohol and tobacco: 6.7% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Remittances
1.2% of GDP (2024 est.)
1.2% of GDP (2023 est.)
1.2% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
1.2% of GDP (2023 est.)
1.2% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Labor force
756,200 (2024 est.)
note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
$2.075 billion (2024 est.)
$2.593 billion (2023 est.)
$2.217 billion (2022 est.)
note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
$2.593 billion (2023 est.)
$2.217 billion (2022 est.)
note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Public debt
28.3% of GDP (2023 est.)
note: central government debt as a % of GDP
note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Unemployment rate
7.9% (2024 est.)
6.4% (2023 est.)
5.6% (2022 est.)
note: % of labor force seeking employment
6.4% (2023 est.)
5.6% (2022 est.)
note: % of labor force seeking employment
Taxes and other revenues
21.4% (of GDP) (2023 est.)
note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$57.001 billion (2024 est.)
$57.15 billion (2023 est.)
$58.931 billion (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
$57.15 billion (2023 est.)
$58.931 billion (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
Inflation rate (consumer prices)
3.5% (2024 est.)
9.2% (2023 est.)
19.4% (2022 est.)
note: annual % change based on consumer prices
9.2% (2023 est.)
19.4% (2022 est.)
note: annual % change based on consumer prices
Current account balance
-$489.659 million (2024 est.)
-$722.668 million (2023 est.)
-$1.496 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
-$722.668 million (2023 est.)
-$1.496 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Real GDP per capita
$41,500 (2024 est.)
$41,700 (2023 est.)
$43,700 (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
$41,700 (2023 est.)
$43,700 (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
Imports
$32.375 billion (2024 est.)
$31.796 billion (2023 est.)
$33.655 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
$31.796 billion (2023 est.)
$33.655 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports
$32.637 billion (2024 est.)
$32.147 billion (2023 est.)
$33.178 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
$32.147 billion (2023 est.)
$33.178 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Real GDP growth rate
-0.3% (2024 est.)
-3% (2023 est.)
0.1% (2022 est.)
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency
-3% (2023 est.)
0.1% (2022 est.)
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency
Industrial production growth rate
-7% (2024 est.)
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
Agriculture: 1.9% (2024 est.)
Industry: 20.5% (2024 est.)
Services: 65.1% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Industry: 20.5% (2024 est.)
Services: 65.1% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Electricity access
Electrification - total population: 100% (2022 est.)
Coal
Consumption: 800 metric tons (2023 est.)
Exports: 7,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Imports: 800 metric tons (2023 est.)
Exports: 7,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Imports: 800 metric tons (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
Fossil fuels: 52.2% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Solar: 9.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Wind: 10.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Hydroelectricity: 0.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Biomass and waste: 27.2% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Solar: 9.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Wind: 10.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Hydroelectricity: 0.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Biomass and waste: 27.2% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Natural gas
Consumption: 334.748 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
Exports: 675.708 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
Imports: 1.01 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
Exports: 675.708 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
Imports: 1.01 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
Petroleum
Total petroleum production: 24,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Refined petroleum consumption: 27,000 bbl/day (2024 est.)
Refined petroleum consumption: 27,000 bbl/day (2024 est.)
Electricity
Installed generating capacity: 3.225 million kW (2023 est.)
Consumption: 8.636 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Exports: 4.355 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Imports: 7.66 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Transmission/distribution losses: 1.164 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Consumption: 8.636 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Exports: 4.355 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Imports: 7.66 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Transmission/distribution losses: 1.164 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Internet users
Percent of population: 93% (2023 est.)
Internet country code
.ee
Broadcast media
the publicly owned broadcaster, Eesti Rahvusringhaaling (ERR), operates 3 TV channels and 5 radio networks; growing number of private commercial radio stations broadcasting nationally, regionally, and locally; fully transitioned to digital television in 2010; national private TV channels expanding service, with a range of channels aimed at Russian-speaking viewers; in 2016, there were 42 on-demand services available in Estonia, including 19 pay TVOD and SVOD services; roughly 85% of households accessed digital television services
Broadband - fixed subscriptions
Total: 516,000 (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 38 (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 38 (2023 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular
Total subscriptions: 2.06 million (2024 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 151 (2024 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 151 (2024 est.)
Telephones - fixed lines
Total subscriptions: 227,000 (2024 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 17 (2024 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 17 (2024 est.)
Railways
Total: 1,441 km (2020) 225 km electrified
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
ES
Airports
34 (2025)
Merchant marine
Total: 72 (2023)
By type: General cargo 3, oil tanker 3, other 66
By type: General cargo 3, oil tanker 3, other 66
Heliports
10 (2025)
Military service age and obligation
18-27 for compulsory military or governmental service for men; conscript service requirement 8-11 months depending on education; non-commissioned officers, reserve officers, and specialists serve 11 months; women can volunteer, and as of 2018 could serve in any military branch (2025)
Note 1: Conscripts comprise approximately 3,000-3,300 of the Estonian military's active-duty personnel and serve in all branches, except for the Air Force; after conscript service, reservists are called up for training every 5 years; Estonia has had conscription since 1991
Note 2: In 2024, women comprised about 8% of the full-time professional military force; the Defense League includes a Women's Voluntary Defense Organization
Note 1: Conscripts comprise approximately 3,000-3,300 of the Estonian military's active-duty personnel and serve in all branches, except for the Air Force; after conscript service, reservists are called up for training every 5 years; Estonia has had conscription since 1991
Note 2: In 2024, women comprised about 8% of the full-time professional military force; the Defense League includes a Women's Voluntary Defense Organization
Military expenditures
3.4% of GDP (2025 est.)
3.4% of GDP (2024 est.)
3% of GDP (2023 est.)
2.2% of GDP (2022 est.)
2% of GDP (2021 est.)
3.4% of GDP (2024 est.)
3% of GDP (2023 est.)
2.2% of GDP (2022 est.)
2% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military and security forces
Estonian Defense Forces: Land Forces, Navy, Air Force; Estonian Defense League
Ministry of Interior: Police and Border Guard Board, Internal Security Service (2025)
Note: The Estonian Defense League is a voluntary national defense organization that operates under the Estonian Ministry of Defense
Ministry of Interior: Police and Border Guard Board, Internal Security Service (2025)
Note: The Estonian Defense League is a voluntary national defense organization that operates under the Estonian Ministry of Defense
Military - note
Estonia’s defense policy aims to guarantee the country’s independence and sovereignty, protect its territorial integrity, including waters and airspace, and preserve constitutional order; Estonia’s main defense goals are developing and maintaining a credible deterrent to outside aggression and ensuring the Estonian Defense Forces (EDF) can fulfill their commitments to NATO and interoperate with the armed forces of NATO and EU member states; the EDF’s primary external focus is Russia; since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Estonia has boosted defense spending, sent arms to Ukraine, and sought to boost the EDF’s capabilities in such areas as air defense, artillery, personnel readiness, and surveillance
Estonia has been a member of NATO since 2004, is fully integrated within the NATO structure, and relies on its NATO partners for defense; since 2017, Estonia has hosted a UK-led multinational NATO ground force battlegroup as part of the Alliance’s Enhanced Forward Presence initiative; as the EDF Air Force does not have any combat aircraft, NATO has provided airspace protection for Estonia since 2004 through its Baltic Air Policing mission; NATO member countries that possess air combat capabilities voluntarily contribute to the mission on four-month rotations; NATO fighter aircraft have been hosted at Estonia’s Ämari Air Base since 2014; Estonia also hosts a NATO cyber security center; it cooperates closely with the EU on defense issues through the EU Common Security and Defense Policy and is a member of the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force, a pool of high-readiness military forces from 10 Baltic and Scandinavian countries designed to respond to a wide range of contingencies in the North Atlantic, Baltic Sea, and High North regions; Estonia also has close defense ties with its Baltic neighbors and has bilateral military agreements with a number of European countries, as well as Canada and the US (2025)
Estonia has been a member of NATO since 2004, is fully integrated within the NATO structure, and relies on its NATO partners for defense; since 2017, Estonia has hosted a UK-led multinational NATO ground force battlegroup as part of the Alliance’s Enhanced Forward Presence initiative; as the EDF Air Force does not have any combat aircraft, NATO has provided airspace protection for Estonia since 2004 through its Baltic Air Policing mission; NATO member countries that possess air combat capabilities voluntarily contribute to the mission on four-month rotations; NATO fighter aircraft have been hosted at Estonia’s Ämari Air Base since 2014; Estonia also hosts a NATO cyber security center; it cooperates closely with the EU on defense issues through the EU Common Security and Defense Policy and is a member of the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force, a pool of high-readiness military forces from 10 Baltic and Scandinavian countries designed to respond to a wide range of contingencies in the North Atlantic, Baltic Sea, and High North regions; Estonia also has close defense ties with its Baltic neighbors and has bilateral military agreements with a number of European countries, as well as Canada and the US (2025)
Military and security service personnel strengths
approximately 7,500 active-duty military personnel (2025)
Note: The Estonian Defense Forces rely largely on reservists who have completed compulsory conscription in the previous 10 years to fill out its active duty and Territorial Defense units during a crisis; there are more than 40,000 trained reservists, and approximately 230,000 Estonians are enrolled in the mobilization registry
Note: The Estonian Defense Forces rely largely on reservists who have completed compulsory conscription in the previous 10 years to fill out its active duty and Territorial Defense units during a crisis; there are more than 40,000 trained reservists, and approximately 230,000 Estonians are enrolled in the mobilization registry
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the Estonian military has a mix of Soviet-era and more modern, Western-origin weapons and equipment; suppliers in recent years include France, Israel, South Korea, Sweden, Türkiye, and the US (2025)
Refugees and internally displaced persons
Refugees: 42,439 (2024 est.)
Stateless persons: 63,944 (2024 est.)
Stateless persons: 63,944 (2024 est.)
Ports
Total ports: 20 (2024)
Large: 4
Medium: 1
Small: 4
Very small: 11
Ports with oil terminals: 5
Key ports: Muuga - Port of Tallin, Paldiski Lounasadam, Paljassaare, Sillamae, Vanasadam - Port of Tallinn
Large: 4
Medium: 1
Small: 4
Very small: 11
Ports with oil terminals: 5
Key ports: Muuga - Port of Tallin, Paldiski Lounasadam, Paljassaare, Sillamae, Vanasadam - Port of Tallinn
Methane emissions
Energy: 11.9 kt (2022-2024 est.)
Agriculture: 27.3 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Waste: 23.7 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Other: 2.2 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Agriculture: 27.3 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Waste: 23.7 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Other: 2.2 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
32.3 (2022 est.)
note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality