About Chennai
Chennai is a major metropolitan area located in India, in the Tamil Nadu region. According to the latest available data (2026), the population of Chennai is approximately 6,599,000 residents, making it the #15 most populous city in India.
Globally, Chennai ranks #114 among the world's most populated cities. With over 5 million residents, Chennai is considered a major metropolitan hub in the region.
It is located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. According to the 2011 Indian census, Chennai is the sixth-most-populous city in India and forms the fourth-most-populous urban agglomeration. Incorporated in 1688, the Greater Chennai Corporation is the oldest municipal corporation in India and the second oldest in the world after London.
Chennai City Statistics
| City | Chennai |
| Country |  India |
| Population | 6,599,000 |
| Global Rank | #114 |
| Rank in India | #15 of 1,225 cities |
| City Category | major metropolitan area |
| Region | Tamil Nadu |
| Latitude | 13.0825 |
| Longitude | 80.275 |
| Data Year | 2026 |
Chennai Overview
Chennai is a major metropolitan area in India, situated in the Tamil Nadu area. With a population of 6,599,000 people, it represents approximately 8.7% of the total urban population in India.
As one of the largest cities in the world, Chennai is a significant hub for commerce, culture, and transportation. The city's metropolitan area extends well beyond its official boundaries, encompassing numerous satellite cities and suburban areas.
Population Comparison
To put Chennai's population of 6,599,000 into perspective:
- Chennai's population is comparable to that of small European countries like Norway or Ireland.
- The city has more than 6 million inhabitants, making it a significant urban center globally.
Where is Chennai Located?
Chennai is located in India, in the Tamil Nadu region, at coordinates 13.0825° latitude and 80.275° longitude. Located near the equator, Chennai experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year.
Nearby Cities
Other Cities in India
Largest Cities in India
| # | City | Population |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Muzaffarpur district | 4,801,062 |
| 2 | Belagavi district | 4,779,661 |
| 3 | Moradabad district | 4,772,006 |
| 4 | Ghaziabad district | 4,681,645 |
| 5 | Nagpur division | 4,653,570 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of Chennai?
The population of Chennai is approximately 6,599,000 residents according to the latest available data (2026).
Where is Chennai located?
Chennai is located in India at approximately 13.0825° latitude and 80.275° longitude.
Is Chennai one of the largest cities in India?
With a population of 6,599,000, Chennai is one of the major urban areas in India. It ranks #15 out of 1,225 cities in the country.
