People of Karnataka

Karnataka, a southwestern state of India with Bengaluru as its capital, is known for its diverse population and rich cultural heritage. As of the 2021 Census, Karnataka's population stands at approximately 69 million people, representing a substantial growth rate over the last decade.

Karnataka, located in the southwestern part of India, is home to a vibrant and diverse population. According to the 2021 Census, the state's population is estimated to be around 69 million, reflecting a positive growth trajectory over the last decade. In the decade between 2011 and 2021, Karnataka experienced a population growth rate of approximately 15.6%, emphasizing its status as one of India's more rapidly expanding states. The demographic makeup of Karnataka showcases a substantial urban-rural divide, with about 39% of people living in rural areas while the remaining 61% are in urban centers. Major cities like Bengaluru, which serves as the capital, have attracted many residents due to economic opportunities in technology and other industries. Other significant urban populations can be found in Mysuru, Hubballi-Dharwad, and Mangaluru, contributing to a notable urban density of approximately 319 people per square kilometer. Language plays a crucial role in the identity of Karnataka's people. Kannada is the official language spoken by the majority of the population. However, the state is linguistically diverse, with many residents also fluent in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, and English. This multilingualism reflects Karnataka's cultural richness and historical interactions with neighboring states. Education and literacy indicators in Karnataka have shown improvement over the years. As of the 2011 Census, the literacy rate was recorded at 77.2%. The state government has implemented various educational reforms aimed at increasing accessibility and quality, especially in rural areas, to ensure a better quality of life for its residents, and subsequent surveys are expected to show further advancements. Migration patterns in Karnataka reveal significant trends. While there is a continuous in-migration to urban hotspots, owing largely to job opportunities in the Information Technology sector, there is also notable out-migration.

  • Population of approximately 69 million (2021 Census)
  • Urban areas comprise 61% of the population
  • Major cities include Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Hubballi-Dharwad
  • Official language: Kannada; multilingual population
  • Literacy rate of 77.2% (2011 Census)
  • Significant migration patterns to and from urban areas

Key facts

Population of Karnataka
Approximately 69 million
Source: Census of India · 2021
Urban Population Percentage
61%
Source: Census of India · 2021
Literacy Rate
77.2%
Source: Census of India · 2011
Population Density
319 people per square kilometer
Source: Census of India · 2021

Imported from the original Indias.com People page. Fact sources are named on each card.