Top 11 Largest Cities in the World by Population in 2025

As urbanization accelerates across the globe, cities have become the epicenters of economic activity, cultural exchange, and human settlement. By 2025, the world’s most populous cities continue to grow, driven by migration, birth rates, and economic opportunities. From Asia to South America, these megacities are not only expanding in size but also influencing global trends in infrastructure, sustainability, and governance.

Top Largest Cities in World

In this article, we delve into the top 11 largest cities in the world by population in 2025, based on estimated urban agglomeration data. This list is derived from reliable sources, including United Nations projections and current demographic trends, with the primary reference being a detailed breakdown by JagranJosh.

1. Tokyo, Japan — 37.1 million

Despite experiencing a slight decline in population due to Japan’s aging demographics, Tokyo remains the most populous city in the world in 2025. Tokyo’s metropolitan area encompasses more than just the city core; it includes nearby prefectures like Saitama, Chiba, and Kanagawa.

• Key Features: Efficient public transport, low crime rate, advanced technology integration.
• Challenges: Declining birth rate, aging population, limited housing space.

Tokyo’s blend of tradition and innovation makes it an enduring global city.

2. Delhi, India — 33.8 million

Delhi continues its rapid urban expansion and population growth, placing it firmly as the second-largest city globally. High birth rates and rural-to-urban migration are primary drivers.

• Key Features: Political capital of India, growing IT and service sectors.
• Challenges: Air pollution, traffic congestion, housing shortages.

Delhi’s infrastructure projects, such as metro expansion and smart city initiatives, aim to address urban challenges.

3. Shanghai, China — 29.9 million

As China’s commercial capital, Shanghai is a city of towering skyscrapers, global finance, and booming commerce. It has consistently seen steady population growth due to its global economic pull.

• Key Features: World’s busiest container port, financial hub, smart city leader.
• Challenges: High living costs, environmental concerns.

Shanghai blends rich history with ultramodern architecture, drawing residents and visitors from across the world.

4. Dhaka, Bangladesh — 24.9 million

Dhaka has emerged as one of the fastest-growing cities globally. A hub for the textile industry, it attracts millions from rural Bangladesh seeking jobs and opportunities.

• Key Features: Center of Bangladesh’s economy, major garment manufacturing base.
• Challenges: Traffic congestion, poor urban planning, pollution.

With significant investments in metro rail and expressways, Dhaka is gradually evolving into a better-connected metropolis.

5. São Paulo, Brazil — 22.6 million

The most populous city in South America, São Paulo serves as Brazil’s financial and cultural heart. It continues to grow due to economic migration from rural regions and neighboring countries.

• Key Features: Financial powerhouse, diverse culture, vibrant arts scene.
• Challenges: Urban inequality, traffic congestion, crime in certain areas.

São Paulo’s dynamic economy keeps it on the map as one of the world’s leading global cities.

6. Cairo, Egypt — 22.6 million

Cairo, Africa’s largest city by population, combines historical legacy with modern-day hustle. Its proximity to the Nile and role as a political center make it a magnet for internal migration.

• Key Features: Historical significance, educational institutions, industrial sectors.
• Challenges: Overcrowding, housing crisis, environmental degradation.

Egypt’s government is developing a New Administrative Capital to ease Cairo’s population burden.

7. Mexico City, Mexico — 22.3 million

Mexico City has held a place among the world’s largest urban areas for decades. Its role as Mexico’s political, cultural, and economic center keeps attracting millions.

• Key Features: Rich cultural heritage, extensive metro network, financial hub.
• Challenges: Air quality, water scarcity, seismic risks.

Despite these issues, Mexico City thrives with vibrant street life and strong infrastructure.

8. Beijing, China — 21.8 million

The capital of the world’s most populous country, Beijing remains a megacity of global significance. It’s a central node in China’s political, academic, and cultural ecosystem.

• Key Features: Government headquarters, tech innovations, cultural landmarks.
• Challenges: Air pollution, overpopulation, urban sprawl.

Major initiatives in clean energy and public transit aim to enhance livability in Beijing.

9. Mumbai, India — 21.7 million

India’s financial capital, Mumbai, is the country’s most cosmopolitan city. From Bollywood to banking, Mumbai exerts a tremendous influence both nationally and globally.

• Key Features: Financial hub (home to NSE & BSE), entertainment capital.
• Challenges: Slums, housing shortage, coastal flooding.

Urban projects like Mumbai Metro expansion and coastal road development are designed to manage population pressures.

10. Osaka, Japan — 19.0 million

Osaka, part of the Keihanshin metropolitan region (Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto), continues to be a major industrial and commercial hub in Japan.

• Key Features: Manufacturing industries, tech firms, cultural landmarks.
• Challenges: Aging population, land scarcity.

With upcoming developments for Expo 2025 Osaka, the city is set to draw global attention.

11. Karachi, Pakistan — 17.7 million

Karachi, Pakistan’s economic backbone, is its most populous city. With its bustling ports, industries, and diverse culture, Karachi continues to attract new residents.

• Key Features: Main seaport, industrial hub, financial capital of Pakistan.
• Challenges: Infrastructure strain, law enforcement issues, public health.

Infrastructure investments, including the Green Line BRT, aim to modernize Karachi’s transit and connectivity.

Emerging Urban Trends in 2025

The cities on this list reflect broader global urbanization patterns:

1. Asia Dominates

With 7 out of 11 cities in Asia, the continent continues to lead in urban population. This is largely due to:

• High birth rates
• Rural-to-urban migration
• Economic development hubs

2. Megacities and Overcrowding

A megacity is defined as a city with a population over 10 million. The pressure on infrastructure, housing, and environment is immense. Many of these cities struggle with:

• Traffic congestion
• Pollution
• Inadequate public services

3. Sustainability Challenges

From managing waste to reducing emissions, cities are finding it increasingly important to invest in:

• Green buildings
• Electric public transit
• Smart city technologies

4. Migration and Urban Inequality

Rapid urbanization often leads to income disparity and housing issues, especially in cities like Dhaka, Karachi, and Mumbai. Governments must address slum rehabilitation, urban poverty, and access to resources.

Conclusion

The top 11 largest cities in the world by population in 2025 reveal a mix of economic opportunity, cultural diversity, and urban challenges. Cities like Tokyo and Shanghai represent advanced infrastructure and development, while others like Dhaka and Karachi symbolize the pressures of rapid growth and inadequate planning.

Understanding these urban giants is crucial for anyone interested in economics, geopolitics, urban planning, or global development. As urban centers continue to evolve, the focus must shift to sustainable growth, resilience, and inclusivity, ensuring that cities remain liveable for future generations.