The 10 Largest Cites In The World 2025

According to the United Nations, There are three criteria used to determine what constitutes a city. These include; city proper- that is a city by political location, a n urban area and a metropolitan region.

There are about 81 cities in the world according to the United States. They have a combined population of over 5 million. These cities continue to grow in population due to migration.

In this write up of the top 10 largest cities in the world. We are using the estimated population of the cities. In 2025, Tokyo is the largest city in the world with an estimated population of 37 million people. It is the capital of Japan.

Top 10 Largest Cities in the World 2025

Using the above criteria, We have ranked the cities from the largest to the least biggest in terms of population size.

Tokyo Japan – 37 million

The most populated and largest city on earth is Tokyo Japan with a population of 37 million. Howver, this number is expected to drop by 2030 according to the United States due to decreased in birth rate.

Research shows that while Tokyo continues to attract young adults and educated women from other prefectures, its overall growth has slowed and even slightly declined in recent years, driven by a low fertility rate of around 0.99 and a rapidly aging society.

Delhi India – 34 million

The second Largest city in the world is the capital of India New Delhi with a total population of 34 million.

Delhi is growing fast, but much of the growth comes from inward migration rather than just births. That growth is stressing infrastructure, environment, and urban services. Without strong planning, investment, and regulation, Delhi will face worsening issues with congestion, air quality, housing, and quality of life.

Shanghai – 31 million

Shanghai is a direct-administered municipality and the most populous urban area in China. Shanghai’s population research shows a city grappling with very low fertility, rapid aging, and stabilizing growth. The fertility rate among local residents has dropped to about 0.7, one of the lowest in the world, while the average age of first childbirth has risen into the early 30s. Natural growth has turned negative, with deaths now outpacing births, and the share of elderly residents steadily increasing.