The GDP per capita is calculated by dividing a country's GDP by its population. Thus, the richest countries in the world are those with the highest GDP per capita. Currently, the richest country in the world in terms of GDP per capita is Luxembourg, with a GDP per capita of $135,700.

As of 2026, Luxembourg remains the richest country in the world when measured by GDP per capita (PPP), which adjusts for the cost of living and purchasing power. With a GDP per capita exceeding $140,000, Luxembourg's wealth is driven by its massive financial services sector, its role as a hub for international corporations, and its small population of approximately 660,000 people. Its strategic location in the heart of Europe and its stable political environment make it a magnet for global wealth. Other contenders for the top spot include Ireland, which has seen a massive surge in GDP due to the presence of multinational tech and pharma giants (though some economists argue this "leprechaun economics" doesn't reflect the actual wealth of citizens), and Singapore, which serves as the premier financial gateway to Asia. Qatar and Norway also rank in the top five, primarily due to their vast natural gas and oil reserves combined with small, highly educated populations. While the United States has the largest overall economy by nominal GDP, it ranks lower (typically around 8th or 9th) on a per-capita basis due to its much larger and more diverse population.