It is located about one kilometre south-east of the centre of Willemstad,[3] and has the highest population density of the island.

[4] The booming oil and phosphate industry of the early 20th century, resulted in a population increase, and the transformation of Steenrijk into a residential zone.

[3] The Dutch word "steenrijk" translates to "filthy rich", however Steenrijk is a poor neighbourhood[5] with an average income of 22% below the average for Curaçao.

[6] Steenrijk has a large amount of shops, supermarkets, bars, restaurants and hotels.

[6] During World War II, a coastal battery was built in Steenrijk to protect the island from U-boats.