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Malegaon is a major city located in Nashik district of Maharashtra, India. The city is popularly known as the Textile Hub of Maharashtra and is the second-largest city in Nashik district after Nashik city. It is also one of the important urban centers in North Maharashtra.
According to Census 2011, Malegaon had a population of about 4.73 lakh, which is estimated to grow steadily and reach nearly 6.50 lakh by 2026.
👉 Projected Population of Malegaon (2026): ~6.50 Lakh
Malegaon City: Census 2011
| Category | Total | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 4,71,312 | 2,38,868 | 2,32,444 |
| Children (0–6) | 76,585 | 39,332 | 37,253 |
| Literacy Rate (%) | 87.61% | 90.35% | 84.81% |
| Sex Ratio | 973 | — | — |
| Child Sex Ratio | 947 | — | — |
Key Takeaways
• Malegaon has emerged as a major textile and powerloom center in northern Maharashtra.
• The city shows strong educational development, reflected in its high literacy rate.
• A high proportion of young population supports industrial and workforce growth.
• Balanced gender composition indicates relatively stable social conditions.
• Textile-based employment continues to attract workers from nearby regions.
• Urban density reflects compact settlement and active commercial activity.
Religion in Malegaon
Islam is the most widely practiced religion in Malegaon, forming a large majority of the population. Hinduism is the second-largest religion, while Buddhism and Jainism are followed by smaller communities, reflecting the city’s diverse social structure.
| Religion | Population 2011 | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Islam | 3,79,927 | 78.95% |
| Hinduism | 89,011 | 18.50% |
| Buddhism | 6,830 | 1.42% |
| Jainism | 3,933 | 0.82% |
| Others | — | — |
Languages in Malegaon
Hindi, Marathi, and Urdu are the most commonly spoken languages in Malegaon. Urdu is widely used in daily communication and business, especially in textile markets, while Marathi serves as the official administrative language. Hindi acts as a link language among migrant workers and traders.
Economy of Malegaon
Malegaon’s economy is primarily driven by the textile and powerloom industry, which employs a large portion of the local workforce. The city is well known for its low-cost garment manufacturing and fabric trading.
In addition to textiles, wholesale markets, retail trade, transport services, and small-scale industries contribute to economic activity. Its strategic location within Nashik district and good road connectivity further support commercial growth and employment opportunities.
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