In fact, many of the town's homes and streets retain their original stones and colonial architecture, with the classic Mediterranean courtyard. Although the Durango-Mexico City route has long since bypassed the town, Chalchihuites' 4,000 inhabitants have maintained their traditional economy of agriculture, cattle ranching, and mining. The Church and the family have provided a stable social structure throughout many social and economic upheavals. Unlike other areas in Mexico, the population of Chalchihuites has not grown in recent years, due in part to a static economy and limited career opportunities.