The bustling metropolises of the world are unique with their history, heritage, culture, and identity. While the world population is growing fast, some cities are larger than others. The population growth in a city depends on various factors, including infrastructure, job opportunities, and the environment. As of 2023, Japan’s Tokyo is the largest city in the world. The list of the world’s largest cities is full of astonishing facts. To know why, stay tuned to this article.
According to the United Nations, the largest city in the world can be defined by geographical, urban, or metropolitan area. New York is the biggest city as per the geographical area operated under the local government. And as per the population of a metropolitan area, Tokyo is the largest one. It’s also the largest in its urban area and primary commuter areas.
If we look at the list of the largest cities in the world, eight are in the USA, based on their built-up land area.
The Biggest City in the World
With a 12,903 km² land area, 20,902,000 residents, and 1728 per km² urban population density, the biggest city in the world is New York.
However, the largest city in the world by population is Tokyo.
Biggest Cities in the World
There are more or less eighty-one cities across the globe with over five million people. The list of the top 10 biggest cities in the world by population includes most of the populated Asian cities. While China and India have some most populous cities, Sao Paolo and Mexico City are also highly populated. Surprisingly, Japan has two on the list of largest cities in the world.
Top 10 Largest Cities in the World
Tokyo, Japan
Interestingly, when Japan is losing its population rapidly, its capital is the largest city in the world. The overall population of Japan is only around 12.57 crore, not even 11% of the Indian and Chinese populations. But Tokyo has over 39 million population and an area of 2188 km², which makes it the largest city around the globe. Despite being so populous, Tokyo is also one of the world’s wealthiest places. Tokyo is known for its culture, modern technology, and fashion.
Earlier known as Edo, the population of this metropolitan grew too fast between 1500 and 1700.
However, Tokyo is not the globe’s most densely populated city. The male of Maldives is the most densely populated city in the world.
Delhi, India
With more than 28 million population and a 1,484 km² area, Delhi is the second biggest city in the world. Apart from being India’s capital, it’s the country’s financial, political, and cultural hub. The city is colorful with its culture and cuisine, which perfectly signifies India’s unity in diversity.
Shanghai, China
Being the third largest city in the world by population, with more than 26 million residents, China’s Shanghai has an area of 6,340 km². Shanghai is not only China’s biggest political hub but a significant business and financial center. The city’s architecture and nightlife are enough to boggle your mind.
The population of this city grew mainly in the 90s. People here have no language or grammar of their own for writing.
Sao Paulo, Brazil
Sao Paulo is the fourth among the largest cities in the world, homing more than 23 million people. South America’s largest city with a 1,520 km² area is famous for its culture, lifestyle, and developed architecture. However, the most populous South American city is full of immigrants.
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City, the fifth of the top 10 biggest cities in the world, homes 22 million people and has an area of 1,485 km². The Mexican capital never fails to amaze with its lifestyle, culture, and infrastructure.
Cairo, Egypt
The sixth biggest city in the world is Egypt’s Cairo, a culturally and historically rich city. Although the city also homes around 21 million people, its size of only 453 km² has led it to sixth place in this list. From ancient monuments to vibrant markets, Cairo is a lovely city to stay and travel to.
Mumbai, India
India’s business capital Mumbai has a population of more than 20 million as well. However, its size is only 603 km², making it densely populated.
Beijing, China
The capital city of the largest country in the world by population is the 8th largest city in the world. Its population is around 20 million, and its size is 16,807 km².
This city is one of the world’s oldest and has one of the oldest restaurants too.
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Outside the Middle East, Dhaka is the biggest Muslim city. Earlier known as the City of Mosques, it is also among the most densely populated cities. The population of Dhaka is roughly 19 million currently, though it’s as tiny as 360 km² in area. You will love this city for its diverse culture, history, food habits, markets, and educational environment.
Osaka, Japan
Japan’s Osaka is the tenth largest city in the world, with a population of over 15 million and an area of 2,214 km². From mouthwatering cuisine to vibrant nightlife, the city is full of pleasure along with the advancement of technology.
Conclusion
The largest city in the world is different if determined by its area; as one may consider a metropolitan area, another may include administrative boundaries.
Hulunbuir in China has an area of 101,725 km², whereas its population is only 2.6 million. On the other hand, New York is home to more than 8 million people and covers a 1,214 km² area.
Finally, the lists may differ based on essential factors. But every list, as we provided in this article, offers interesting facts and statistics.
