Top States and Cities in Colombia by Population (2026)

Overview of Colombia’s Population by Departments and Cities

Colombia’s population is distributed across 33 departments and numerous cities, highlighting the country’s rich cultural, geographic, and demographic diversity. While a few departments and cities dominate in population, the full distribution reflects Colombia’s unique mix of urban centers, rural regions, and historically significant areas.

This page provides a comprehensive look at Colombia’s population by department and city, allowing readers to explore the demographic landscape in detail.

Quick Facts: Colombia States & Cities Population (2026)

Top Colombian Departments by Population

Colombia is divided into 33 departments, each with its own administrative capital and unique cultural identity. The most populous departments, such as Bogotá, Antioquia, Valle del Cauca, Cundinamarca, and Atlántico, account for a large portion of the national population. These regions are not only demographic hubs but also economic and cultural centers, contributing significantly to the country’s overall growth and urbanization trends.

Population of Colombian Departments (2018 Census)

Source: 2018 Colombian Census (DANE)

📌 Key Takeaways:

• Bogotá, the capital, is the most populous department.

• Most departments have populations under 3 million, reflecting a highly concentrated population in urban hubs.

• Smaller departments like Vaupés, Guainía, and Amazonas reflect Colombia’s sparsely populated regions in the Amazon and border areas.

Top Cities in Colombia

Colombia’s urban population is concentrated in several major cities, which serve as economic, cultural, and political centers. Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali dominate, but many mid-sized cities like Barranquilla, Cartagena, and Bucaramanga contribute to the country’s urban dynamism. These cities illustrate the diverse urban landscape, combining historical heritage with modern growth.

Population of Major Colombian Cities (Latest Estimates)

📌 Key Notes:

• Bogotá alone holds over 20% of the country’s urban population.

• Medellín, Cali, Barranquilla, and Cartagena are major economic and cultural hubs.

• Urbanization is highly concentrated, with a few cities dominating, while many smaller cities and towns reflect regional diversity.

Summary

Colombia’s population is unevenly distributed, with high concentrations in the capital, major urban centers, and northern/coastal departments. Meanwhile, Amazon, eastern, and border regions remain sparsely populated. Understanding the departmental and city-level population is essential for planning, development, and analyzing urbanization and demographic trends across the country.