Thane, one of Maharashtra’s fastest-growing cities, continues to expand as part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Governed by the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC), the city has seen steady population growth over the past decades, making it one of the most significant urban hubs in India.
Thane Population in 2025
As per the latest estimates, the population of Thane city in 2025 stands at 2,691,000, while the Thane metropolitan population is estimated at 26,912,000. These numbers are based on projected growth rates since the last official census in 2011.
The scheduled 2021 census was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which means that these are provisional figures. Once the government conducts the official census in 2025, updated data will provide a more accurate picture.
For reference:
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2011 Census (City): 1,841,488
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2011 Census (Metro): 18,394,912
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2024 Estimate (City): 2,613,000
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2025 Estimate (City): 2,691,000
This steady rise highlights Thane’s rapid urbanization and its increasing importance within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
Literacy Rate and Sex Ratio
Thane has a strong record in education and literacy:
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Total literates (2011): 1,458,796 (797,342 males, 661,454 females)
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Average literacy rate: 89.41%
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Male literacy: 92.14%
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Female literacy: 86.33%
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The sex ratio in Thane is 888 females per 1,000 males, while the child sex ratio is 908 girls per 1,000 boys. Though lower than the national average, these figures underline the demographic structure of the city.
Slum Population in Thane
Like many Indian metropolitan cities, Thane also faces challenges of rapid urbanization.
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Total slum households: 76,072
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Slum population: 326,798
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Share of city’s population: Around 17.75%
This indicates the need for improved housing, infrastructure, and civic planning as the city continues to grow.
Religion in Thane
Thane is home to a diverse mix of communities and religions. As per census data:
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Hinduism: 73.91% (1,361,018)
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Islam: 17.96% (330,719)
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Christianity: 1.88% (34,665)
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Buddhism: 4.18% (76,916)
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Jainism: 1.40% (25,826)
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Sikhism: 0.32% (5,937)
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Others/Not Stated: 0.35%
This religious composition showcases Thane’s cultural diversity, making it a melting pot of traditions and festivals.
Population Growth Trend (2021–2031 Projections)
The following projections highlight the estimated growth of Thane’s population over the coming decade:
| Year | Thane City Population | Metro Population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2,393,000 | 23,913,000 |
| 2022 | 2,464,000 | 24,630,000 |
| 2023 | 2,537,000 | 25,368,000 |
| 2024 | 2,613,000 | 26,129,000 |
| 2025 | 2,691,000 | 26,912,000 |
| 2026 | 2,771,000 | 27,719,000 |
| 2027 | 2,854,000 | 28,550,000 |
| 2028 | 2,939,000 | 29,406,000 |
| 2029 | 3,027,000 | 30,288,000 |
| 2030 | 3,117,000 | 31,196,000 |
| 2031 | 3,210,000 | 32,131,000 |
The data clearly shows that Thane is on track to cross 3 million residents by 2029–2030, making it one of India’s most densely populated urban centers.
Thane in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region
Thane is an integral part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), which also includes Ambernath, Badlapur, Greater Mumbai, Kalyan-Dombivli, Mira-Bhayander, Navi Mumbai, and Ulhasnagar.
With its growing infrastructure, connectivity, and residential development, Thane has transformed from a satellite town into a standalone city with its own identity.
✅ Key Takeaway: Thane’s population is steadily rising, with an estimated 2.69 million residents in 2025. While the city boasts a high literacy rate and cultural diversity, challenges like slum housing and infrastructure demand careful planning. The upcoming census in 2025 will give a clearer picture, but one thing is certain—Thane is a city on the rise.