Demographic shifts signal aging populations in Saltillo and Guanajuato

Demographic projections indicate that several regions in Mexico are facing rapid population aging. In Saltillo, Coahuila, the elderly population is expected to grow significantly. According to data from INEGI and CONAPO, the number of residents aged 65 or older is projected to rise from 58,077 in 2020 to approximately 109,354 by 2040, representing an 88.3 percent increase.

This shift presents challenges regarding economic security, as many seniors may lack sufficient pensions to cover housing, food, and healthcare, particularly those from informal sectors or unpaid domestic work.

Similarly, Guanajuato is experiencing a sharp decline in fertility rates. Eduardo Sojo Garza-Aldape of Fundación NovaGob México noted that the state's fertility rate has fallen to 1.25 children per woman, well below the 2.1 required for population replacement. This decline places Guanajuato's demographic indicators near those of countries like Japan and Italy, though the transition is occurring at a much faster pace, leaving less time for structural societal preparation.