city and suburb of Rio de Janeiro city, Rio de Janeiro estado (state), southeastern Brazil. It lies in the Guandu-Mirim River valley, at 92 feet (28 metres) above sea level. Originally situated 15 miles (24 km) northwest of Rio de Janeiro, Nilópolis experienced significant growth from the 1960s through the 1980s and became an integral part of the Greater Rio de Janeiro metropolitan area. Important industries include metallurgical and meat-packing plants, as well as ones manufacturing pharmaceuticals and chemicals, soaps, perfumes, candles, plastics, and leather products. Urban sprawl has made heavy inroads into the once extensive orange groves in the agricultural hinterland. Railroads and highways link Nilópolis to Rio de Janeiro and to communities farther inland, while electric commuter rail service provides residents of Nilópolis with rapid access to downtown Rio de Janeiro. Pop. (2005 est.) 151,000.