Palestinian Population in Jordan: Demographics and Distribution
Determining the exact number of Palestinians living in Jordan is a complex task, as there is no official census data specifically categorizing inhabitants by this identity. The total population figure often fluctuates depending on the specific definition used to identify who is considered a Palestinian.
Key Facts
- Approximately 2.18 million Palestinians were registered as refugees in 2016.
- Minority Rights Group International estimates the total Palestinian population in Jordan to be around 3 million.
- About 370,000 people reside in ten designated refugee camps as of 2014.
- The population is primarily concentrated in the northern and central regions of the country.
Population Estimates and Refugee Status
Because official census data is unavailable, researchers rely on registration figures and external estimates. In 2016, the number of registered refugees reached 2.18 million. However, broader estimates from the Minority Rights Group International suggest a higher total of roughly 3 million Palestinians residing within Jordan's borders.
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Refugee Camp Demographics
A significant portion of the population lives in specialized settlements. As of 2014, roughly 370,000 individuals lived across ten different refugee camps. Among these, the Baqa'a refugee camp is the largest, housing over 104,000 residents, while the Al-Wehdat refugee camp follows with more than 51,500 residents.
Geographic Distribution
Palestinians in Jordan are not evenly distributed across the country. Instead, they are overwhelmingly concentrated in the central and northern governorates. The primary areas of residence include the Amman Governorate, the Zarqa Governorate, and the Irbid Governorate.
| Category | Statistic/Location | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Refugees (2016) | 2.18 Million | Official registration count |
| Estimated Total Population | ~3 Million | Minority Rights Group International estimate |
| Camp Residents (2014) | 370,000 | Distributed across 10 camps |
| Largest Camp | Baqa'a | 104,000+ residents |
| Second Largest Camp | Al-Wehdat | 51,500+ residents |
| Primary Regions | North & Central | Amman, Zarqa, and Irbid Governorates |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an official census for Palestinians in Jordan?
No, there is no official census data that specifically counts how many inhabitants of Jordan are Palestinians.
How many Palestinians are estimated to live in Jordan?
While 2.18 million were registered as refugees in 2016, Minority Rights Group International estimates the total number to be around 3 million.
Which is the largest Palestinian refugee camp in Jordan?
The Baqa'a refugee camp is the largest, with a population exceeding 104,000 residents.
Where are most Palestinians located within Jordan?
They are primarily concentrated in the northern and central parts of the country, specifically within the governorates of Amman, Zarqa, and Irbid.
How many people live in Jordan's refugee camps?
As of 2014, approximately 370,000 people lived in ten different refugee camps.