Discover the largest cities in the world 2024, including the Top 10 largest cities in the world by population 2024. Explore the Most populated cities in the world, Largest urban areas in the world, and get insights into World’s largest cities by population 2024 trends.
A city is a large human colony, typically characterized by high population density, a diverse population, and a developed urban infrastructure. The Top 10 Largest Cities in the World are usually considered centers of culture, economy, politics, area, and population. The criteria used to determine the top ten biggest cities in the world can vary depending on the different sources.
Some sources use population figures to rank cities, while others use the size of the urban area or metropolitan region. Some sources also take into account factors such as economic activity, political significance, and cultural importance. Additionally, different sources may use different methods to measure and define these factors for the top ten largest cities in the world, leading to variations in rankings.
Let’s get a closer look at the world’s largest city.
List of largest Cities in the World
Here is the list of the largest cities in the world as of 2024:
Table of Content
Top 10 Largest Cities in the World by Population 2024
Here is the list of the top 10 largest cities in the world with population and land area:
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Largest Cities in the World by Population |
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Rank |
City |
Country |
Largest Cities in the World by Population 2024 |
Largest Cities in the World by Population 2023 |
Growth Rate |
Land Area (km2area) |
| 1 | Tokyo | Japan | 37,115,035 | 37,194,105 | -0.21% | 2,190 |
| 2 | Delhi | India | 33,807,403 | 32,941,309 | 2.63% | 1,483 |
| 3 | Shanghai | China | 29,867,918 | 29,210,808 | 2.25% | 6,340 |
| 4 | Dhaka | Bangladesh | 23,935,652 | 23,209,616 | 3.13% | 300 |
| 5 | Sao Paulo | Brazil | 22,806,704 | 22,619,736 | 0.83% | 1,521 |
| 6 | Cairo | Egypt | 22,623,874 | 22,183,201 | 1.99% | 214 |
| 7 | Mexico City | Mexico | 22,505,315 | 22,281,442 | 1% | 1,495 |
| 8 | Beijing | China | 22,189,082 | 21,766,214 | 1.94% | 1,641 |
| 9 | Mumbai | India | 21,673,149 | 21,296,517 | 1.77% | 603 |
| 10 | Osaka | Japan | 18,967,459 | 19,013,434 | -0.24% | 2,230 |
Tenth Largest City in the World – Osaka, Japan
Osaka, a vibrant Japanese city, boasts rich culture, modern architecture, and lively street scenes. As the capital of Osaka Prefecture, it holds significance as a financial and cultural hub. Osaka Castle stands as a historic icon, while the Dotonbori district offers a lively nightlife with renowned street food. Takoyaki and okonomiyaki are Osaka’s famous dishes. Universal Studios Japan adds to its appeal as a major tourist hotspot. With friendly locals and a lively atmosphere, Osaka is a must-visit destination in Japan.
Osaka has a estimated population of 19.1 million and covers the land area of 736 square miles.
- Actual Location: Western Japan, basically on the Osaka Bay
- Transportation System: The most common public transit network for people and visitors, which includes the Osaka Metro, regional buses, trains, and private taxis, plays a crucial role in this city.
- Food: A special and popular gourmet haven with a focus on takoyaki, okonomiyaki,shellfish, Osaka-style ramen, and kushikatsu are famous foods for the people in this city.
- Tradition and culture: Basically a fusion of contemporary and global elements with traditional Japanese culture, Osaka is renowned for its delectable cuisine, warm residents for the people and visitors, and distinct sense of humour.
- Nightlife and Safety: There is a thriving nighttime culture in Namba and Umeda, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues, but it’s safe for visitors.
Read: What is the Capital of Japan?
Ninth Largest City in the World – Mumbai, India
Mumbai, India’s financial hub, boasts vibrant culture, colonial architecture, and Bollywood. Despite its global significance, congestion and infrastructural challenges persist. Explore UNESCO sites like Elephanta Caves and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, attracting visitors to this dynamic city.
Over 20 million people live in Mumbai, which is known as the “City of Dreams” and has a total area of about 233 square miles.
- Actual Location: Western India, basically on the Arabian Sea coast
- Transportation System: An efficient public transit network that comprises local trains, buses, and taxis is available in the city. Also, the very well-known and popular Mumbai metro transport communication system plays a crucial role in this city.
- Food: A special type of food, including Mughlai, Gujarati, South Indian, and Maharashtrian, Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, and Misal Pav, is available for the people and visitors in this city.
- Tradition and culture: A complex fusion of Portuguese, Islamic, Hindu, and Marathi elements is much more traditional in this city, which attracts visitors. The city is well-known for its welcoming populace system, rich cultural diversity in the overall aspect, and energetic dance and music customs throughout the city.
- Nightlife and Safety: A very thriving scene in the nighttime culture in some places, especially Bandra and South Mumbai, featuring live music venues, bars, and clubs, is included in this city, but it’s safe for visitors.
Eighth Largest City in the World – Beijing, China
Beijing, China, seamlessly blends ancient charm and modern marvels. Iconic sites like the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square highlight its rich history, while the Temple of Heaven and the Great Wall showcase cultural heritage. Modernity shines through with landmarks like the Bird’s Nest stadium from the 2008 Olympics. The city offers a vibrant arts scene, delectable street food, and tranquil parks like the Summer Palace, creating a captivating fusion of past and present.
Over 21 million people live in Beijing, which covers approximately 6,336 square miles.
- Actual Location: Northern China, basically on the North China Plain
- Transportation System: Beijing has a systemically advanced public transportation network that includes the government and private buses, taxis, and the Beijing subway facility, which plays a crucial role in the transport system in this city.
- Food: The most popular foods include Xiaolongbao, Jidanbing, and Zhajiangmian, which are highly demanded in this city. People love to eat this type of food, and the visitors also like it.
- Tradition and culture: A complex fusion of historical and contemporary elements is the tradition in this city. The city is well-known for its martial arts demonstrations, acrobatics, and traditional Chinese opera.
- Nightlife and Safety: A very thriving scene in the nighttime culture in some places, especially Sanlitun and Wudaokou, featuring live music venues, bars, and clubs, is included in this city, but it’s safe for visitors.
Seventh Largest City in the World – Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, Egypt’s vibrant capital on the Nile River, boasts a rich history seen in iconic landmarks like the Giza Pyramids. Islamic Cairo showcases ancient mosques and lively markets, revealing the city’s diverse cultural heritage. Despite challenges like traffic, Cairo thrives as a cultural and economic hub, home to institutions like Al-Azhar College. The Egyptian Museum, housing treasures like Tutankhamun’s artifacts, highlights Egypt’s historical wealth. Nile cruises offer a unique view of Cairo’s skyline, providing residents and visitors with a fresh perspective.
Cairo covers an area of about 606 square miles and has a population of more than 20 million people.
- Actual Location: Northeastern Egypt, basically on the Nile River Delta
- Transportation System: An efficient government and private transport network that comprises the Cairo Metro, buses, and taxis plays a crucial role for the people in this city.
- Food: A wide range of special dishes with a focus on rice, meat, veggies, and spices are available in this city. Falafel, koshari, ful medames, and baba ghanoush are a few popular meals for the people and visitors in this city.
- Tradition and culture: A complex fusion of Islamic, contemporary, and Egyptian elements is the tradition in this city. Also, the city is renowned for its lively culture, rich history, and amiable people.
- Nightlife and Safety: A very thriving scene featuring live music venues, bars, and clubs is included in this city, but it’s safe for visitors.
Read: Capital of Egypt
Sixth Largest City in the World – Dhaka, Bangladesh
Dhaka, Bangladesh’s bustling capital along the Buriganga Stream, blends historical richness with modern challenges. Landmarks like Lalbagh Fort and Ahsan Manzil reflect Dhaka’s Mughal past, while areas like Sadarghat showcase its vibrant commerce. However, the city faces issues like overpopulation, inadequate infrastructure, and traffic congestion due to rapid urbanization. Despite challenges, Dhaka remains the cultural and economic hub of Bangladesh, with the University of Dhaka fostering intellectual development in a vibrant academic environment.
Dhaka, is about 306 square miles in size and home to more than 18 million people.
- Actual Location: Central Mexico, basically in the Valley of Mexico
- Transportation System: A well-functioning network of government and private buses, ferries, and rickshaws for public transit plays a crucial role for the transport system in this city.
- Food: Special vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes are available for people or visitors in this city.
- Tradition and culture: A very complex fusion of Mughal, Islamic, and Bengali elements is the tradition in this city, which has significance in Indian history. The city is renowned for its great cuisine, welcoming residents, and exciting dance and music customs as a culture to provide entertainment.
- Nightlife and Safety: A very thriving scene in the nighttime culture in the Gulshan and Banani neighborhoods, featuring live music venues, bars, and clubs, is included in this city, but it’s safe for visitors.
Read:
Fifth Largest City in the World – Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City, the capital, boasts rich history, vibrant culture, and a bustling metropolitan life. With UNESCO Heritage status, its historic center features iconic landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace. The city thrives as an art hub, hosting top museums such as the Museum of Modern Art and Frida Kahlo Historical Center. Renowned for delicious street food, especially tacos and mole, Mexico City seamlessly blends old and new, making it a dynamic and charming destination.
Mexico City, has a estimated population of 21.9 million with a land area of 577 square miles.
- Actual Location: Central Mexico, basically in the Valley of Mexico
- Transportation System: A sophisticated public transit network that includes government and private buses, taxis, and the Sao Paulo Metro plays a crucial role for the transport system in this city.
- Food: A spicy, varied gastronomic scene featuring Italian, Portuguese, and Japanese dishes is available for the people in this city.
- Tradition and culture: A well-known fusion of African and Portuguese elements, with a focus on cultural activities like dance, music, and art, are very attractive in this city.
- Nightlife and Safety: A very thriving scene featuring live music venues, bars, and clubs is included in this city, but it’s safe for visitors.
Read: Capital of Mexico
Fourth Largest City in the World – Sao Paulo, Brazil
Sao Paulo, Brazil, boasts a diverse cultural scene, modern skyline, and vibrant social life. However, it faces challenges like traffic congestion and social disparities despite economic success. As a key global city, Sao Paulo drives Brazil’s economy, but grapples with typical metropolitan issues in urbanization and public services.
The largest city in South America, Sao Paulo covers 1,521 square miles and is home to approximately 22 million people.
- Actual Location: Southeastern Brazil, basically on the Tiete River
- Transportation System: A sophisticated public transit network that includes some buses, taxis, and the Sao Paulo Metro plays a crucial role for the transport system in this city.
- Food: A special, varied gastronomic scene featuring Italian, Portuguese, and Japanese dishes is available for the people in this city.
- Tradition and culture: A well-known fusion of African and Portuguese elements, with a focus on cultural events like dance, music, and art, are very attractive in this city.
- Nightlife and Safety: A very thriving scene featuring live music venues, bars, and clubs is included in this city, but it’s safe for visitors.
Read: What is the Capital of Brazil?
Third Largest City in the World – Shanghai, China
Shanghai, China’s financial hub, blends tradition and modernity. Pudong’s skyscrapers meet the Bund’s colonial architecture. Home to landmarks like the Shanghai Pinnacle and Yuyuan Garden, the city is a global financial powerhouse, shaping China’s economy. Rapid growth has led to environmental and social challenges. Shanghai symbolizes China’s incredible transformation and serves as a key international gateway, showcasing progress and global engagement.
Shanghai, is home to in excess of 27 million individuals and ranges an area of around 2,448 square miles.
- Actual Location: Eastern China, basically on the Yangtze River Delta
- Transportation System: A sophisticated public transport network that includes public buses, the Shanghai Metro, and maglev trains plays a crucial role for the transport system in this city.
- Food: The special Shanghainese and seafood-focused dishes are highly valued by the people in this varied culinary landscape in this city.
- Tradition and culture: A fusion of contemporary strategies and traditional Chinese elements is very useful for the people in this city.
- Nightlife and Safety: A very diverse, decent, and vibrant life that offers something for all, and it’s generally safe for the visitors in this city.
Read: Fastest Growing Cities in China
Second Largest City in the World – Delhi, India
Delhi, India’s capital, boasts a rich blend of history and modernity with landmarks like the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and India Gate. It serves as a hub for political, social, and business activities, featuring a mix of traditional markets and upscale shopping centers. However, the city faces challenges like pollution and overpopulation, impacting its development and sustainability.
Delhi, has a population of 31 million and covers an area of around 573 square miles.
- Actual Location: Northern India, basically on the Yamuna River
- Transportation System: An advanced government and private transportation network that includes buses, autorickshaws, and the Delhi Metro plays crucial roles in the transportation system.
- Food: A wide range of tasty cuisines, with a focus on street food, and hotels are also included.
- Tradition and culture: A complex fusion of modern and traditional elements is available in this city, which is very attractive.
- Nightlife and Safety: A very diverse, decent, and vibrant life that offers something for all, and it’s the safest city in the world.
Read: Capital of India
Largest City in the World – Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo, Japan’s vibrant capital, seamlessly fuses tradition and innovation. With neon-lit streets, towering skyscrapers, and efficient public transport, Tokyo reflects modernity. Yet, ancient temples, serene gardens, and tea houses reveal its deep historical roots. The city offers diverse cultural experiences, from sumo wrestling to high-fashion districts, captivating a global audience with its unique charm and blend of rich past and modern aspirations.
Tokyo, has a population surpassing 37 million and an area of approximately 2,194 square miles.
- Actual Location: Honshu Island, Japan
- Transportation system: A sophisticated network of buses, trains, and subways for public transportation is the proper support for the transport system.
- Food: A wide range of cuisines that appeal to all palates is the most attractive thing for all.
- Tradition and Culture: A complex fusion of modern and traditional elements is very attractive in this city.
- Nightlife and Safety: A very diverse and vibrant life that offers something for all, and it’s the safest city in the world.
Read: Interesting Facts About Tokyo
Most Populated Cities in the World
- These cities are characterized by their vibrant cultures, economies, and diverse populations, making them key players on the global stage.
World’s Largest Cities by Population 2024
- Predictions for 2024 suggest continued growth in these megacities, with urbanization and migration driving population increases.
Biggest Cities in the World by Population
- The size of these cities not only reflects their population but also their impact on global economics, politics, and culture.
Top 10 Most Populous Cities
- This list reflects the dynamic changes in global population distribution, with Asian cities prominently featuring due to rapid urbanization.
Largest Urban Areas in the World
- These urban areas encompass not just the city cores but also the surrounding suburbs and exurbs, contributing to their massive populations.
Conclusion – Most Populated Cities in the World
The world’s largest cities, both in terms of population and region, stand as demonstrations of human resourcefulness, flexibility, and the charm of metropolitan life. From the old underlying foundations of Cairo to the modern skylines of Shanghai, every city tells an interesting story of development, improvement, and the interlacing of geology, culture, and history.
Asurbanization keeps on changing our planet, these megacities serve as reminders of the complex relationships that link our past, present, and future, as well as offering experiences into the difficulties and chances of our consistently changing worldwide scene.
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Largest Cities in the World – FAQs
What are the top 10 largest cities in the world by population as of 2024?
- Tokyo, Japan – 37,435,191
- Delhi, India – 29,399,141
- Shanghai, China – 26,317,104
- São Paulo, Brazil – 21,846,507
- Mexico City, Mexico
- Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Cairo, Egypt
- Beijing, China
- Mumbai, India
- Osaka, Japan
Which city is the largest in the world by population in 2024?
Tokyo, Japan, remains the largest city by population, with over 37 million residents.
How has the ranking of the largest cities changed from previous years?
The rankings have seen slight shifts, mainly due to population growth in fast-developing cities like Delhi and Shanghai.
What factors contribute to the growth of these megacities?
Factors include urbanization, migration, and birth rates, contributing to the rapid population growth in these cities.
Are there any US cities in the top 10 largest cities by population?
As of the latest data, no US cities are listed in the top 10 largest cities by population for 2024.
How do these cities manage their large populations?
Management strategies include infrastructure development, public transportation systems, and urban planning to accommodate the growing population and ensure sustainability.
What challenges do these largest cities face due to their size?
Challenges include congestion, pollution, housing shortages, and the provision of services like healthcare and education to an ever-growing population.
What are the 10 biggest cities?
- Tokyo, Japan.
- Delhi, India.
- Shanghai, China.
- Sao Paulo, Brazil.
- Ciudad de México (Mexico City), Mexico.
- Dhaka, Bangladesh.
- Al-Qahirah (Cairo), Egypt.
- Beijing, China
- Mumbai, India
- Osaka, Japan
Which city is the biggest in India?
The biggest city in India is Delhi. With a total area of 1,484 square kilometers, it is the largest city in India, as per record.
What are the three largest cities in the world?
The 3 largest city in the world is Tokyo, Delhi and Shanghai. Tokyo has a population of 37,435,191, Delhi has 29,399,141, and Shanghai has 26,317,104.
Which is the largest city in the world by area?
The largest city in the world by area is Moscow, Russia. Moscow has a total area of 2,511 square kilometers (965 square miles), which makes it larger than many small countries. It is also one of the most densely populated cities in the world, with a population of over 12 million people.
How is the population of a city determined?
The population of a city is typically determined through a census, which is a count of all the residents within a specific geographic area. The census can be conducted by the government or other authorized organizations and is usually conducted every few years.
How does the population of a city change over time?
The population of a city can change over time due to a variety of factors such as migration, birth rates, and death rates. If more people move into a city than leave it, the population will increase. Conversely, if more people leave a city than move into it, the population will decrease. Birth rates and death rates also play a role in a city’s population growth or decline.
Which city will have the highest population in the world in 2022?
With a population of 37,274,000, Tokyo tops the list of world cities. Despite a respectable amount of people residing in the megacity, Tokyo’s population growth has recently slowed. The population of the city decreases by 0.09 percent from 2018 to 2019 to 0.18 percent from 2021 to 2022.
Which is the biggest city in the world?
Tokyo, Japan, is Earth’s biggest city, home to 37.4 million people—over four times New York City’s population. It spans 13,452km², with an average of 2,642 people per square kilometer across the Greater Tokyo Area.