Exploring Cologne: Population And Its Significance

Cologne, Germany's fourth-largest city, has nearly 1.1 million inhabitants in the city proper and over 3.1 million in the Cologne-Bonn urban region. The city's population has grown steadily in recent years, with the latest estimates for 2024 putting the figure at 1,149,014. Cologne is the largest city in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia and is part of the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region, the second-biggest in the European Union by GDP.

Cologne's population in 2024

Cologne, Germany's fourth-largest city, is estimated to have a population of 1,149,014 in 2024. This figure represents the urban agglomeration of Cologne, which typically includes the city's population and adjacent suburban areas. The city proper is estimated to have nearly 1.1 million inhabitants, with over 3.1 million in the larger Cologne-Bonn urban region.

Cologne has experienced significant population growth throughout its history, dating back to the Middle Ages. The construction of the Medieval wall in 1180 marked the beginning of the city's expansion, and by 1300, the population had reached 50,000-55,000. The city's population continued to grow, and by 1840, it had surpassed 75,000. However, there were periods of population decline as well, particularly during the 1930s to 1950s and the late 1970s through 1990.

In recent years, Cologne has seen a steady population increase, with a growth rate of 1.9% in 2016 compared to the previous year. The city's total area of over 156 square miles (405 square kilometres) gives it a population density of 6,800 people per square mile (2,700 per square kilometre).

Cologne is known for its diverse population, with over 36% of its residents being migrants. The city has significant populations from Turkey, Italy, Poland, and other European and Middle Eastern countries. Women slightly outnumber men in Cologne, with 1,046 females for every 1,000 males.

The city is also notable for its religious diversity, with 35.5% of the population belonging to the Roman Catholic Church and 15.5% to the Evangelical Church. Additionally, about 11.2% of the population is Muslim, and there is a small but significant Jewish community, comprising 0.3% of the population.

Population growth since 1950

Cologne is the fourth-largest city in Germany by population, with nearly 1.1 million inhabitants in the city proper and over 3.1 million in the Cologne-Bonn urban region. The city's population has grown steadily since 1950, when it stood at 597,725.

Cologne's population reached 1 million in 1975, but then fell back below this figure until the mid-2010s. The population exceeded 1 million again in 2010 and has continued to grow since then. The current metro area population of Cologne is estimated to be between 1,149,000 and 1,149,014, a 0.44% to 0.46% increase from 2023.

Cologne has a long history of population growth, dating back to the 15th century when it had a total of 40,000 residents. By 1840, this number had grown to over 75,000, and just forty years later, the population had doubled to over 144,000.

However, there have also been periods of decline, particularly between the 1930s and 1950s, and again in the late 1970s through to 1990. Despite these fluctuations, Cologne's population has generally trended upwards, and the city continues to draw residents from around the world.

Cologne's position as Germany's fourth-largest city

Cologne is Germany's fourth-largest city, with a population of over a million inhabitants in the city proper and over 3 million in the wider Cologne-Bonn urban region. It is the largest city in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and the largest in the Rhineland.

Cologne's population has grown steadily in recent years, with the 2024 population estimated at 1,149,014, representing a 0.46% annual increase. This is a continuation of a long-term trend, with the population growing by 5,299 from 2023 to 2024. The city's total area is over 156 square miles (405 square kilometres), giving it a population density of 6,800 people per square mile (2,700 per square kilometre).

Cologne has a rich history, founded by the Romans in 50 CE as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium. It was a major trade hub in medieval and Renaissance times and was one of the largest European cities during these periods. The city was heavily bombed during World War II, resulting in the evacuation and displacement of most of its population. However, it has since recovered and grown, becoming a cultural and economic centre in Germany.

Cologne is known for its vibrant Carnival celebrations, with traditional parades and music taking over the city streets. It is also a leading trade fair and convention centre, with important media and insurance sectors. The city boasts over 40 museums and more than 130 galleries, contributing to its reputation as a cultural hub.

The number of foreign residents

Cologne, Germany's fourth-largest city, is home to a diverse population, including a significant number of foreign residents. As of 2021, the number of people with a migration background in the city was approximately 40.5%, or 436,660 individuals. This diverse population contributes to the cultural richness of Cologne, making it a leading trade fair and convention centre, with strong media and insurance sectors.

Among the foreign residents in Cologne, the largest group is from Turkey, with a population of around 90,000 people. The city's "Little Istanbul" in Keupstraße is a vibrant hub of Turkish culture, with numerous restaurants and markets. Other significant foreign resident populations include those from Italy, with over 25,000 residents, and Poland, with a population of over 18,000. Additionally, there are communities from Greece, Serbia, Bulgaria, Iraq, Syria, and Russia, adding to the multicultural fabric of the city.

The presence of foreign residents in Cologne is not a recent phenomenon. As early as 321 CE, Emperor Constantine approved the settlement of a Jewish community in the city, granting them the rights of Roman citizens. This long history of migration has shaped Cologne's identity as a cosmopolitan and inclusive city.

In recent years, the city has experienced steady population growth, attracting residents from around the world. As of 2024, the estimated population of Cologne is 1,149,014, with a density of 6,800 people per square mile (2,700 per square kilometre). This growth is expected to continue, solidifying Cologne's position as a cultural melting pot and a major urban centre in Germany.

The diverse population of Cologne enhances the city's appeal, making it a desirable destination for visitors and new residents alike. The city's rich history, vibrant culture, and thriving economy contribute to its attractiveness, ensuring that Cologne remains a sought-after location for people from all walks of life.

Cologne's status as a trade fair and convention centre

Cologne is Germany's fourth-largest city and the largest in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. It has nearly 1.1 million inhabitants in the city proper and over 3 million in the Cologne-Bonn urban region. The city has a rich history as a trade hub, dating back to its establishment as a Roman colony in the 1st century CE. During the Middle Ages, it was located on one of the most important trade routes between eastern and western Europe, and it was a member of the Hanseatic League, a powerful trade union.

Today, Cologne continues to thrive as a trade fair and convention centre. The Koelnmesse, founded in 1924, is Germany's biggest trade fair venue for 25 industries and one of the world's leading providers of trade fairs. It hosts around 80 trade fairs, guest events, and special events annually, attracting over 54,000 exhibiting companies from 122 countries and around 3 million visitors from more than 200 nations. The Koelnmesse exhibition centre is the third-largest in Germany and among the top ten worldwide.

Cologne's convenient location and strong transport connections contribute to its success as a trade fair and convention centre. The city is situated on the River Rhine and is well connected to national and international transport networks. The Cologne Trade Fair grounds lie in the right-Rhenish district of Deutz, adjacent to the Köln Messe/Deutz station, which offers ICE connections to the Cologne/Bonn Airport and other major cities.

The range of industries represented at the Koelnmesse is diverse, including food and beverage, digital, vending, gaming, furniture, motorcycle and scooter, confectionery, and photography. In addition to trade fairs, the Koelnmesse also hosts conferences, congresses, and special events, making it a versatile and attractive destination for businesses and visitors alike.

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