Maharashtra's population is projected to reach 12.8 crore by March 2025, a significant rise from 11.2 crore in 2011, according to the Economic Survey of Maharashtra. The state, second only to Uttar Pradesh in population, is witnessing a major demographic transformation driven by declining fertility rates, an aging population, and rapid urbanization.

A key shift is the declining share of children under 15, which is expected to drop from 26.7% in 2011 to 19.6% by 2026, while both the working-age (15-59 years) and elderly (60+) populations are on the rise. The elderly population, which stood at 10% in 2011, is projected to reach 13.1% by 2026, with women outnumbering men in this group due to improved life expectancy.

The working-age population is set to expand from 63.3% in 2011 to 67.3% by 2026, reaching nearly 8.7 crore individuals. By 2036, this group will constitute 66.2% of the population, reducing the dependency ratio to 33.8%. This shift underscores the growing economic responsibility of the workforce and the need for employment generation and skill development.

Urbanization is another major trend, with Maharashtra’s urban population catching up to rural areas. In 2011, rural Maharashtra had 6.2 crore residents, compared to 5.1 crore in urban centers. However, by 2025, the gap is expected to narrow significantly, with rural and urban populations reaching 6.5 crore and 6.3 crore, respectively. This surge in urbanization will demand stronger infrastructure, housing, and public services.