The state of Coahuila, located on the US border in the North-East meso-region, is the third largest state in terms of surface area. But with only 2.5 million inhabitants, it is the16th state in terms of population and one of the least densely populated. The state has a much lower share of its population in rural areas, only 10% in cities with under 2 500 inhabitants versus 23.5% nationally. The state population is growing somewhat above the national average at 1.5% versus 1.0% nationwide. The state also has a very small indigenous ethnic population. In terms of educational attainment, it is ahead the national averages with 19% having a tertiary education (fifth ranked).