Development of the new town was approved in 1982, with the initial population intake occurring in 1988. As of 2016, the town is home to around 372,000 residents. The total development area of Tseung Kwan O, including its industrial estate, is about , with a planned population of 445,000. Major residential areas within the new town include Tsui Lam, Po Lam, Hang Hau, Tseung Kwan O Town Centre, Tiu Keng Leng (also known for its English name Rennie's Mill) and Siu Chik Sha.