What is the World Bank high-income economy threshold for 2024?
The World Bank set a specific line in 2024 at US$13,935. This number represents the gross national income per capita required for classification.
Questions about World Bank high-income economy
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did the World Bank start classifying countries by income levels?
Income thresholds have shifted repeatedly since the system began in 1987. In 1989 the initial threshold stood at US$6,000 in 1987 prices.
How many countries and territories hold high-income status for the 2026 fiscal year?
Eighty-seven countries and territories hold high-income status for the 2026 fiscal year. The list includes sovereign states as well as dependent territories such as the Channel Islands.
Why does Vatican City remain excluded from the World Bank high-income economy list?
Vatican City remains excluded despite its sovereignty because it lacks a standard economy. The World Bank updates this roster annually using fresh financial reports.
Does being a World Bank high-income economy automatically mean a country is developed?
High-income does not automatically mean developed in technical terms. The United Nations notes that some high-income nations remain developing countries.