Santiago de Leon de Caracas – or just Caracas as it is known around the globe – is a city that is located in Venezuela. It is not only the capital city but is also the largest by population. The city has a population of 1,943,901 people per the city’s last Census. The metro area has a million more inhabitants, with a total population of 2.9 million.
City Size and Population Density
The city covers a total area of 300 square miles, giving it a density of almost 11,000 residents per square mile.
Demographics of Caracas
Most of the population of Caracas is mixed race, primarily from European, African and Indigenous ancestry. The 20th century brought an influx of immigrants from all over Eurasia, including people of German, Portuguese, Chinese and Italian descent, to name a few. There is also a growing community of Afro-Venezuelans residing in Caracas. The city has attracted immigrants through its role as a cultural center, as well as its employment opportunities, particularly in the service industry.
However, there is a dark side to Caracas. It has been named one of the most dangerous cities in the entire world and has one of the highest murder rates. Many of the city’s violent crimes – as much as 98% to be exact – go unresolved, and the US has even issued travel warnings for traveling to this city.
Population Growth
Despite this, however, the city has experienced rapid population growth, which is only expected to continue in the coming years.