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Salem is a major city in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and ranks as the fifth-largest urban agglomeration in the state. Known for its steel industries and mango production, Salem is an important commercial and industrial hub of western Tamil Nadu.
As per the Census 2011, Salem city had a population of 8,29,267 (8.29 lakh). The city has witnessed steady urban expansion over the decades. The estimated population of Salem in 2026 is around 11 lakh, reflecting continued growth. Between 2001 and 2011, Salem recorded a population growth rate of 19.02%. Growth has moderated slightly in recent years but remains stable due to industrial development and urban migration.
👉 Projected Population of Salem City (2026): ~11 lakh
Salem City Census 2011 Highlights
| Category | Census 2011 |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 8,29,267 |
| Male Population | 4,17,317 |
| Female Population | 4,11,950 |
| Population Density | 9,079 per sq. km |
| Average Literacy Rate | 84.42% |
| Male Literacy | 89.30% |
| Female Literacy | 79.50% |
| Sex Ratio | 987 |
| Child Sex Ratio | 949 |
| Children (0–6 years) | 79,067 (9.53%) |
Salem City Key Takeaways
Salem had 8.29 lakh population in 2011, now approaching 11 lakh (2026 est.).
The city covers 92 sq. km, making it one of the denser cities in Tamil Nadu.
Literacy rate is 84.42%, above many national averages.
Sex ratio of 987 is higher than India’s average of 940.
Children (0–6 years) form 9.53% of the population.
Historical growth peaked between 1931–1971 due to industrial expansion.
Population growth during 2011–2021 is estimated at around 14%.
Salem Historical Population
As per Census 2011, Salem has a population growth rate of 19.02% during 2001-2011. It’s expected to have a population growth rate of 14% during 2011-2021.
Let’s look at population & percentage change from Year 1901 to 2021.
| Year | Population | Actual Change | Percentage Change |
| 1901 | 70,621 | – | – |
| 1911 | 59,153 | -11,468 | -16.24% |
| 1921 | 52,244 | -6,909 | -11.68% |
| 1931 | 102,179 | 49,935 | 95.58% |
| 1941 | 129,702 | 27,523 | 26.94% |
| 1951 | 202,335 | 72,633 | 56.00% |
| 1961 | 273,134 | 70,799 | 34.99% |
| 1971 | 398,200 | 125,066 | 45.79% |
| 1981 | 498,856 | 100,656 | 25.28% |
| 1991 | 551,803 | 52,947 | 10.61% |
| 2001 | 696,760 | 144,957 | 26.27% |
| 2011 | 829,267 | 132,507 | 19.02% |
| 2021 (estimate) | 945,000 | 115,733 | 13.96% |
Sources: Census 2011
Salem District Population
Salem District is one of the 38 districts of Tamil Nadu. As per Census 2011, the district had a population of 34,82,056 (34.82 lakh). The estimated population of Salem District in 2026 is around 38 lakh, indicating moderate demographic growth.
Census 2011 Highlights
| Category | Census 2011 |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 34,82,056 |
| Male Population | 17,81,571 |
| Female Population | 17,00,485 |
| Literacy Rate | 75.86% |
| Sex Ratio | 954 |
| Child Sex Ratio | 916 |
Religion in Salem District
Hinduism – 95.53%
Islam – 2.74%
Christianity – 1.55%
Others / Not Stated – 0.18%
Languages Spoken in Salem District
Tamil – 88.48%
Telugu – 6.08%
Kannada – 2.48%
Urdu – 1.58%
Other languages include Saurashtra.
Source: Census 2011
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