Income Per Capita

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Definition of 'Income Per Capita'

Income per capita is a measure of the average income earned by a person in a given country or region. It is calculated by dividing the total national income by the total population. Income per capita is often used to compare the economic well-being of different countries or regions.

There are a number of factors that can affect income per capita, including the level of economic development, the size of the population, and the distribution of income. In general, countries with a higher level of economic development have a higher income per capita. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, some countries with a high level of economic development, such as Norway and Switzerland, have relatively low income per capita due to the high cost of living.

The size of the population can also affect income per capita. In general, countries with a larger population have a lower income per capita. This is because the total national income is divided among a larger number of people. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, some countries with a small population, such as Qatar and Luxembourg, have a high income per capita due to the high concentration of wealth.

The distribution of income can also affect income per capita. In general, countries with a more equal distribution of income have a higher income per capita. This is because the total national income is more evenly distributed among the population. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, some countries with a more unequal distribution of income, such as the United States, have a high income per capita due to the high level of economic output.

Income per capita is a useful tool for comparing the economic well-being of different countries or regions. However, it is important to keep in mind that it is only one measure of economic well-being. Other factors, such as the cost of living and the quality of life, are also important to consider.

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