Mexico >> Mexican States >> Colima
Colima Population Overview
Colima is a state located in western Mexico, bordered by the states of Jalisco and Michoacán and the Pacific Ocean to the south. It is one of the smallest states in the country by area and the least populated among Mexico’s 32 federal entities. According to the Censo de Población y Vivienda 2020, Colima had a total population of 731,391, accounting for about 0.6% of Mexico’s population.
During the 2010–2020 decade, Colima recorded a population growth rate of 12.43%, reflecting steady demographic expansion driven by urban development and economic activity, particularly in coastal and industrial areas. The state has a high level of urbanization, with around 90% of residents living in cities and towns.
Based on recent trends, Colima’s population is projected to reach around 0.77 million by 2026.
Colima Census 2020 – Quick Facts
| Indicator | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 731,391 |
| Male Population | 360,622 |
| Female Population | 370,769 |
| Population Rank | 32nd |
| Total Land Area | 5,627 km² (2,173 sq mi) |
| Area Rank | 28th |
| Population Density | 130/km² (337/sq mi) |
| Capital City | Colima City |
| Male–Female Ratio | 97.2 men per 100 women |
| Life Expectancy | 75.5 years |
| Median Age | 30 years |
| Urban Population | 90% |
Source: Censo de Población y Vivienda 2020
Colima Historical Population
Colima recorded a population growth rate of 12.43% between 2010 and 2020. From 1921 to 1930, the state experienced a significant population decline, mainly due to economic and social disruptions. After this period, population growth remained steady, supported by urbanization and improved living conditions.
Overall, Colima’s population has increased consistently since the mid-20th century, reflecting long-term demographic stability.
Population & Percentage Change (1900–2020)
| Census Year | Population | Absolute Change | Percentage Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1900 | 40,041 | — | — |
| 1910 | 42,512 | +2,471 | +6.17% |
| 1921 | 91,749 | +49,237 | +115.82% |
| 1930 | 61,923 | -29,826 | -32.51% |
| 1940 | 78,806 | +16,883 | +27.26% |
| 1950 | 112,321 | +33,515 | +42.53% |
| 1960 | 164,450 | +52,129 | +46.41% |
| 1970 | 241,153 | +76,703 | +46.64% |
| 1980 | 346,293 | +105,140 | +43.60% |
| 1990 | 428,510 | +82,217 | +23.74% |
| 2000 | 542,627 | +114,117 | +26.63% |
| 2010 | 650,555 | +107,928 | +19.89% |
| 2020 | 731,391 | +80,836 | +12.43% |
Source: Censo de Población y Vivienda 2020
Largest Cities and Towns in Colima (2020)
Colima’s population is mainly concentrated in a few major urban centers, particularly along the Pacific coast and in the central valley region. Cities such as Manzanillo, Villa de Álvarez, and Colima City serve as the state’s main economic, administrative, and commercial hubs.
Based on the Censo de Población y Vivienda 2020, the largest cities and towns in Colima are:
| Rank | City/Town | Municipality | Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Manzanillo | Manzanillo | 159,853 |
| 2 | Villa de Álvarez | Villa de Álvarez | 147,496 |
| 3 | Colima | Colima | 146,965 |
| 4 | Tecomán | Tecomán | 88,337 |
| 5 | Ciudad de Armería | Armería | 15,368 |
| 6 | Coquimatlán | Coquimatlán | 14,892 |
| 7 | Quesería | Cuauhtémoc | 9,931 |
| 8 | Cuauhtémoc | Cuauhtémoc | 9,746 |
| 9 | El Colomo | Manzanillo | 9,664 |
| 10 | Comala | Comala | 9,649 |
Source: Censo de Población y Vivienda 2020
Also read about: Top Cities in Mexico by Population
Religion in Colima
Christianity is the dominant religion in Colima, with Roman Catholicism remaining the largest faith. The strong Catholic presence reflects the state’s historical and cultural traditions. In recent years, Protestant and evangelical churches have shown gradual growth, while a small share of residents identify with no religion.
According to the Censo de Población y Vivienda 2020, the religious composition of Colima is as follows:
Catholic: 83.5%
Protestant / Evangelical Christian: 7.9%
No Religion: 7.3%
Unaffiliated Religion: 0.8%
Other Religions: 0.1%
Source: Censo de Población y Vivienda 2020
Also read about: Religion in Mexico
Indigenous Languages in Colima (2020)
Although Colima has a relatively small indigenous-speaking population, several native languages continue to be spoken across the state, reflecting Mexico’s cultural diversity. Most indigenous language speakers are concentrated in urban and semi-urban areas due to migration from other regions.
According to the Censo de Población y Vivienda 2020, there are 5,210 people aged 3 years and above in Colima who speak an indigenous language.
The most widely spoken indigenous languages in the state are:
Nahuatl: 2,364 speakers
Mixteco: 1,326 speakers
Tarasco (Purépecha): 376 speakers
Zapoteco: 290 speakers
Source: Censo de Población y Vivienda 2020
✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the population of Colima in 2026?
The population of Colima in 2026 is projected to be around 0.76 million, based on recent growth trends and census data.
2. What is Colima’s population rank in Mexico?
Colima is the least populated state in Mexico, ranking 32nd among the country’s 32 federal entities.
3. What is the main religion in Colima?
Christianity is the dominant religion in Colima. About 83.5% of the population follows Roman Catholicism, while 7.9% are Protestant or Evangelical Christians. Around 7.3% of residents report having no religion.
4. Which indigenous languages are spoken in Colima?
In Colima, about 5,210 people aged 3 and above speak an indigenous language. The most widely spoken languages are Nahuatl, Mixteco, Tarasco (Purépecha), and Zapoteco.
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