Why is coconut oil relatively saturated but often semiliquid at room temperature?

Coconut oil is indeed highly saturated, consisting of up to 90 percent saturated fat. While saturated fats are typically solid at room temperature, coconut oil’s physical state is influenced by its specific chemical composition.1

The oil is characterized by a high concentration of medium-chain fatty acids, particularly lauric acid, which makes up 45–50 percent of its content. Because these fatty acid chains are shorter than those found in many other fats, they have lower melting points. Consequently, coconut oil has a melting point of approximately 23 °C (74 °F).1

Because this melting point is very close to typical room temperatures, the substance exists in a state that is often described as a yellowish-white solid or semiliquid. Its unique profile allows it to remain stable and resist rancidity while maintaining a texture that is softer than many other highly saturated fats.12