Changde has a permanent population of 5.845 million, which is a megacity.

Changde's comprehensive strength is firmly in the forefront of Hunan province. In 217, the city's GDP reached 323.81 billion yuan, up 8.4% over the previous year, ranking third in the province, giving full play to its functions as a central city, a comprehensive transportation hub city and an ecologically livable city in northwest Hunan. In 217, Changde City reviewed and confirmed that it would continue to retain the honorary title of National Civilized City.

On October 25th, 218, Changde won the title of "International Wetland City" in the world.