Top 10 Most Populous Mega-Cities in the World (2025). The world’s population is growing steadily and is expected to continue to grow until around 2100. After that, many experts believe it may start to decline. But for now, the number of people living on the planet is steadily increasing, and so are the world’s major cities.
Cities are expanding faster than ever before, with millions migrating from rural areas to cities in search of jobs, education, and a better quality of life. Some of these places now house more people than entire countries. Here are the 10 largest cities on the planet in 2025, based on population figures from the World Population Review. Together, all 10 cities have a population of about 257 million.
Mumbai, India – 22 Million
Mumbai is one of India’s busiest and most important cities, with around 22 million people.
It’s known for its financial markets, film industry and overcrowded commuter trains.
Population growth is expected to continue, although space remains limited due to the city’s coastal location.
Beijing, China – 22.5 Million
China’s capital city now has around 22.5 million people living in its metropolitan area.
It has expanded rapidly over the last three decades and now includes suburbs stretching into neighbouring provinces.
Beijing is home to famous sites like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, but it’s also known for its growing tech scene and busy street markets.
Mexico City, Mexico – 22.7 Million
The capital of Mexico has around 22.7 million residents across its metropolitan region.
It’s the biggest city in North America and continues to grow outwards into surrounding states.
Pollution, traffic and water supply remain key issues for the government to address.
São Paulo, Brazil – 22.9 Million
Brazil’s largest city is home to nearly 23 million people.
São Paulo covers almost 8,000 square kilometres and is known for its cultural diversity and booming economy.
While growth has slowed slightly, the city still sees steady expansion and high levels of migration.
Cairo, Egypt – 23 Million
Greater Cairo has around 23 million residents and is the largest city in the Arab world and in Africa.
Its urban area spreads far beyond the historic centre, with millions living in informal settlements.
The city faces challenges with transport, housing, and pollution as it continues to grow.
Dhaka, Bangladesh – 24.6 Million
The capital of Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, with 24.6 million people.
Dhaka continues to expand rapidly, with hundreds of thousands of new arrivals every year.
Many areas are overcrowded, and urban planning has struggled to keep up with demand.
Shanghai, China – 30.4 Million
Shanghai is the most populated city in China, home to around 30.4 million people in 2025.
The city has grown fast over the last 40 years, expanding both upwards and outwards.
It’s now a huge port and financial centre, and has strict plans in place to limit future growth.
Delhi, India – 34.6 Million
India’s capital region is growing at a rapid pace and now has around 34.6 million residents.
Delhi’s population has soared over the past few decades due to migration from rural areas and nearby states.
Some experts believe it could become the world’s most populated city before the end of the decade.
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Tokyo, Japan – 37 Million Population
Tokyo is the largest city in the world, with around 37 million people living across its metro area. It stretches over 13,500 square kilometres and includes several surrounding prefectures.
Growth has slowed in recent years, but Tokyo remains famous for its clean streets, efficient public transport, and world-leading infrastructure.
