ChinaCensus
Chengdu’s Population Nears 21.5 Million in 2025, Fueled by Economic Boom and Livability
Chengdu, one of China’s fastest-growing megacities, continues to attract residents with its booming economy and improving quality of life, according to the latest population data released in early 2025. As of the start of the year, the city’s permanent resident population reached 21.474 million, a notable increase from 21.403 million at the end of 2024, reflecting steady growth despite nationwide demographic challenges.
The data, sourced from the 2024 Statistical Bulletin, also showed that the registered household population, or “hukou,” rose to 16.236 million in early 2025, up from 15.982 million a year earlier. This growth highlights the city’s success in integrating migrants into its social system, a key priority for urban planners. With a jurisdiction area of 14,312 square kilometers, Chengdu’s population density stands at approximately 1,500 people per square kilometer, solidifying its status as one of China’s most populous cities—ranked fourth nationally and first within Sichuan province.
Economic vitality has been a driving force behind population influx. Chengdu’s GDP reached 2.35113 trillion yuan in 2024, underpinning its appeal as a hub for technology, manufacturing, and services. The city’s urbanization rate also climbed to 80.8% in early 2025, with 17.352 million residents living in urban areas, up from 80.5% the previous year. This steady urban expansion signals ongoing migration from rural to urban zones, a trend fueled by job opportunities and improved public services.
Looking back at historical data, Chengdu’s population has grown remarkably over the past decade. The Seventh National Census in 2020 recorded 20.937757 million permanent residents, showing a surge from 14.047625 million in the 2010 census. Such growth was partly driven by the city’s “talent 新政” (talent policy), which by 2020 had attracted over 330,000 university-educated young professionals, boosting the labor force and innovation capacity.
Demographically, Chengdu maintains a relatively balanced age structure. In 2020, 68.74% of residents were between 15 and 59 years old, the prime working-age group, while 17.98% were over 60, indicating moderate aging. The gender ratio stood at 101.03 males per 100 females, reflecting a slight male majority that has narrowed from 103.33 in 2010, suggesting evolving social demographics.
Health indicators also paint a positive picture. The average life expectancy in Chengdu rose to 82 years in 2023, with men living an average of 79.25 years and women 84.99 years, showcasing improvements in healthcare and living standards. This figure has steadily increased from 79.33 years in 2016, demonstrating the city’s success in enhancing public health services.
However, challenges remain. While the working-age population remains robust, the aging trend requires continued investment in elderly care and social security. Additionally, balancing rapid urban growth with environmental sustainability and infrastructure development will be crucial for Chengdu’s long-term livability.
As China navigates a changing demographic landscape, Chengdu’s ability to attract and retain talent, coupled with its economic resilience, positions it as a model for urban development in the country’s southwestern region. The city’s population dynamics, marked by both quantitative growth and qualitative improvements in living standards, highlight its role as a magnet for those seeking opportunities and a higher quality of life.
With careful planning and policy adjustments, Chengdu is poised to maintain its status as a vibrant, growing metropolis, addressing demographic shifts while fostering inclusive development for its diverse population.
More population information please check:2025 Chengdu City Population Data and Population Census data and AGE PYRAMID - ChinaCensus-ChinaCensus
reference content:2025年[四川]成都市人口总人数口多少和第七次人口普查结果 年龄金字塔结构 民族组成情况-红黑人口库