As of the 2011 Census, Tamil Nadu had a population of 72,147,030, making it the sixth most populous state in India. Projections place the current population well over 76 million. It is one of India's most urbanized states, with nearly 50% of its residents living in urban areas.
The demographic composition is predominantly Tamil, though significant Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Urdu-speaking minority communities exist. Hinduism is the majority religion (roughly 87%), with vibrant and deeply rooted Christian (6%) and Muslim (5%) populations contributing to the state's cultural fabric. Tamil Nadu boasts a high literacy rate of over 80%, well above the national average, and is recognized for its progressive social policies that have led to improved health, education, and employment outcomes.