Largest City in the World By Population, List of Top-10

In the ever-evolving tapestry of human civilization, cities represent the heartbeat of progress and development. As we step into the year 2024, the world continues to witness unprecedented urbanization, with cities growing larger and more populous than ever before. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 largest cities in the world by population in 2024, showcasing the diverse and dynamic urban landscapes that define our planet.

World’s Largest City By Population 2024

In 2024, Tokyo, Japan, stands as the world’s largest city, with an astonishing population of 37.4 million—four times that of New York City. Covering an extensive area of 13,452 square kilometers, the Greater Tokyo Area has an average density of 2,642 people per square kilometer. Housing shortages drive the popularity of small 9-square-meter apartments. Despite its efficient and punctual public transport, residents face challenges due to traffic congestion and crowded streets, reflecting the complex realities of urban life in Tokyo.

Top-10 Largest Cities in the World By Population

Tokyo city of Japan with the population of 37,194,105 holds the title of the largest city in the world, followed by Delhi (India), Shanghai (China), Dhaka (Bangladesh) and Sao Paulo (Brazil).

Here is the list of top-10 largest cities in the world by population:

Largest City in the World – Tokyo, Japan

• 2023 Population: 37,194,105
• 2022 Population: 37,274,002
• Growth Rate: -0.21%

Tokyo, world’s largest city in 2024, teems with 37.4 million inhabitants, surpassing New York City’s population fourfold. Spanning 13,452km2, the Greater Tokyo Area averages 2,642 people per square kilometer, fostering housing shortages and fueling the popularity of tiny 9m2 apartments. Navigating the metropolis poses challenges with congested roads and crowded, albeit punctual, yet expensive public transport. Tokyo epitomizes the dynamic but demanding essence of the world’s largest city.

Second Biggest City in the World – Delhi, India

• 2023 Population: 32,941,309
• 2022 Population: 32,065,760
• Growth Rate: 2.73%

As the world’s second-largest city, the National Capital Territory of Delhi encompasses New Delhi and several regional states. With a rich history spanning over 2,000 years, Delhi grapples with outdated infrastructure despite recent road projects to alleviate traffic. The city battles significant pollution from roads and industry, coupled with housing challenges, where approximately 50% of the population resides in sub-standard accommodations.

Third Biggest City in the World – Shanghai, China

• 2023 Population: 29,210,808
• 2022 Population: 28,516,903
• Growth Rate: 2.43%

Shanghai, now the world’s third-largest city, evolved from a small fishing village, thriving due to its strategic location at the southern estuary of the Yangtze River. Boasting the colossal Nanjing Road shopping district, a blend of modern malls and traditional Chinese outlets, the city’s 5.5km commercial streets rival global hubs like Oxford Street in London and the Champs-Élysées in Paris, attracting one million daily shoppers.