Amid rapid urbanization, megacities continue to expand at a dizzying pace. Here is a list of the world's 10 most populous cities based on the latest data from United Nations (UN) , and World Population Review, as of 2024. Figures reflect metro area population, including suburban and satellite areas.
1. Tokyo, Japan
- Population: 37,1 million people
- Although Japan's population is aging and shrinking, Tokyo retains its number one spot thanks to its high density. The city is Asia's financial, technological and cultural hub, despite facing challenges with housing and pollution.
2. Delhi, India
- Population: 33,8 million people
- India’s capital is experiencing rapid growth due to massive rural migration. Delhi faces severe air pollution and infrastructure pressures, but remains a major economic engine.
3. Shanghai, China
- Population: 29,9 million people
- China's largest financial center, attracting global workers. Shanghai is famous for its modern skyline but is also subject to strict population controls.
4. Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Population: 23,9 million people
- One of the world's fastest growing cities, Dhaka struggles with flooding and high poverty despite being a global textile hub.
5. São Paulo, Brazil
- Population: 22,8 million people
- South America's most multicultural city, home to multinational corporations. Social inequality and crime are serious problems.
6. Cairo, Egypt
- Population: 22,6 million people
- The “City of a Thousand Towers” possesses the heritage of the Nile civilization, but overpopulation causes traffic chaos and slum expansion.
7. Mexico City, Mexico
- Population: 22,5 million people
- The capital sits on a plateau prone to earthquakes and air pollution. Mexico City is the cultural and historical heart of Latin America.
8. Beijing, China
- Population: 22,2 million people
- China's political and cultural capital, home to historical sites such as the Forbidden City. Air pollution and urban planning are major challenges.
9. Mumbai, India
- Population: 21,7 million people
- India's “City of Dreams” is famous for its Bollywood industry, but is also famous for its Dharavi slums and extreme wealth gap.
10. Osaka, Japan
- Population: 19,0 million people
- Japan's industrial and culinary center, Osaka has a stable population thanks to its high quality of life, but is aging rapidly.
Trends and challenges:
- Asia dominates: Nine out of ten cities are located in these two continents, reflecting the rapid pace of urbanization.
- Infrastructure pressure: Pollution, traffic jams, lack of housing and health services are common problems.
- Climate change: Coastal cities like Shanghai and Mumbai are vulnerable to rising sea levels.
By 2030, Delhi is expected to overtake Tokyo as the world's most populous city, while African cities such as Lagos (Nigeria) and Kinshasa (DR Congo) will join the top 10.
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