Abstract:

The metropolitan area is an essential model of spatial organization for the modern urban development. The formation of Shanghai metropolitan area is of special importance in China. It will powerfully promote economic developments and also district integration in the Yangtze Delta. The Shanghai metropolitan area has six demographic traits, based on the main data of the 5th population census: (1) The population scale is smaller; (2) It nearly enters into a zero increase stage or a negative increase stage; (3) The sex ratio decreases, while the aging accelerates; (4) The cultural quality of population is totally improved; (5) The migrant population has a significant gain; (6) The urbanization is quickly developing.

Key words: Shanghai metropolitan area, demographic trait