About Shantou
Shantou is a major metropolitan area located in People's Republic of China, in the Guangdong region. According to the latest available data (2026), the population of Shantou is approximately 5,502,031 residents, making it the #71 most populous city in People's Republic of China.
Globally, Shantou ranks #154 among the world's most populated cities. With over 5 million residents, Shantou is considered a major metropolitan hub in the region.
However, its built-up area is much bigger with 12,543,024 inhabitants including Rongcheng and Jiedong districts, Jiexi county and Puning city in Jieyang plus all of Chaozhou city largely conurbated. This is de facto the 5th built-up area in mainland China between Hangzhou-Shaoxing, Xi'an-Xianyang and Tianjin.
Shantou City Statistics
| City | Shantou |
| Country |  People's Republic of China |
| Population | 5,502,031 |
| Global Rank | #154 |
| Rank in People's Republic of China | #71 of 2,667 cities |
| City Category | major metropolitan area |
| Region | Guangdong |
| Latitude | 23.3202 |
| Longitude | 116.5397 |
| Data Year | 2026 |
Shantou Overview
Shantou is a major metropolitan area in People's Republic of China, situated in the Guangdong area. With a population of 5,502,031 people, it represents approximately 8.1% of the total urban population in People's Republic of China.
As one of the largest cities in the world, Shantou 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 Shantou's population of 5,502,031 into perspective:
- Shantou's population is comparable to that of small European countries like Norway or Ireland.
- The city has more than 5 million inhabitants, making it a significant urban center globally.
Where is Shantou Located?
Shantou is located in People's Republic of China, in the Guangdong region, at coordinates 23.3202° latitude and 116.5397° longitude. Located near the equator, Shantou experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year.
Nearby Cities
Other Cities in People's Republic of China
Largest Cities in People's Republic of China
| # | City | Population |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kaifeng | 4,824,016 |
| 2 | Yuncheng | 4,774,508 |
| 3 | Chenzhou | 4,667,134 |
| 4 | Yibin | 4,588,804 |
| 5 | Huai'an | 4,556,230 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of Shantou?
The population of Shantou is approximately 5,502,031 residents according to the latest available data (2026).
Where is Shantou located?
Shantou is located in People's Republic of China at approximately 23.3202° latitude and 116.5397° longitude.
Is Shantou one of the largest cities in People's Republic of China?
With a population of 5,502,031, Shantou is one of the major urban areas in People's Republic of China. It ranks #71 out of 2,667 cities in the country.
