The León metropolitan area (Spanish: Zona Metropolitana de León) is the seventh most populous metropolitan area in Mexico, located in the state of Guanajuato. It comprises the core city of León, Guanajuato, and the municipality of Silao de la Victoria.
Population
According to the 2020 census, the metropolitan area had a total population of 1,936,733 inhabitants (978,025 males and 946,746 females). The core city of León had a population of 1,436,733. Other sources cite a figure of approximately 1,609,717, depending on the definition and year. The age distribution shows a relatively young population, with 507,250 people aged 0–14 years, 1,292,529 aged 15–64 years, and 120,760 aged 65 years and older.
Geography and Composition
The metropolitan area is situated in the Bajío region of the Mexican Plateau, roughly in the center of the country. It includes the following municipalities:
- León – the largest city and economic core
- Silao de la Victoria (Silao) – a secondary municipality within the metropolitan zone
Economy
In 2023, the metropolitan area's GDP (PPP, constant 2015 values) was estimated at $39.4 billion, with a per capita GDP of approximately $20,800. The economy is diversified, with León being historically known as a major center for footwear manufacturing, as well as leather goods, automotive parts, and services.
Demographics
The population is predominantly Roman Catholic (1,740,550 people in 2020), with smaller groups of Protestants (77,941), adherents of other religions (2,408), and those reporting no religion (95,689). The vast majority of residents (1,721,480) were born in the state of Guanajuato, while 184,912 were born in other Mexican states, and 5,915 were born in the United States.
Time Zone
The León metropolitan area operates on Central Standard Time (UTC−6), with no daylight saving time adjustments observed.
