Antarctica does not have a permanent resident population, but it hosts a varying number of people mainly involved in scientific research. The population fluctuates seasonally:
- During the austral summer (roughly October to February), about 4,000 to 5,000 people live on the continent. This includes scientists and support staff working at around 66 research stations
- In the harsh winter months, the population drops to about 1,000 people who remain to continue year-round research
The largest research station, McMurdo Station, can accommodate about 1,000 people in summer and about 200 in winter
. There are also two small civilian settlements, Esperanza Base and Villa Las Estrellas, with populations ranging from about 80 to 150 people depending on the season
. In summary, Antarctica's population ranges from approximately 1,000 in winter to up to 5,000 in summer, with no indigenous or permanent residents, only temporary scientific and support personnel
