In 1950, the world population was 2.5 billion, with only 20% living in urban areas. By 2050, two-thirds of global growth will occur in cities.
“Megacities” with populations of 10 million or more will continue to grow, while rural populations will decline, except in sub-Saharan Africa.
These insights are part of the Global Urbanization Outlook 2025: Summary of Findings released by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA).
This release coincides with climate action negotiations at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, emphasizing urbanization’s role in sustainable development and climate resilience.
“Urbanization is a defining force,” stated Li Junhua, head of UNDESA. “With inclusive and strategic management, it can drive climate action, economic growth, and social equity.”
Countries must integrate national policies for housing, land use, mobility, and public services in both urban and rural areas to achieve balanced development.
Since 1975, the number of megacities has grown from eight to 33, with 19 in Asia. Jakarta, Indonesia, is the most populous city, followed by Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Tokyo, Japan. Cairo is the sole non-Asian city in the top 10.
By 2050, the number of megacities is expected to reach 37, with Addis Ababa, Dar es Salaam, Hajipur, and Kuala Lumpur projected to surpass 10 million residents.
Globally, small and medium-sized cities are growing rapidly, especially in Africa and Asia. Out of the 12,000 cities analyzed, 96% have fewer than a million residents, and 81% have fewer than 250,000.
The total number of cities has more than doubled since 1975 and could exceed 15,000 by mid-century, most with populations under 250,000.
While many cities grow, some experience population decline. Some cities see population decreases even as their national populations rise, while others grow despite national declines. Most shrinking cities have fewer than 250,000 residents, with many in China and India.
Mexico City and Chengdu are among large cities seeing declines.
Cities with populations of at least 5,000 are the most common settlement type in over 70 countries, including Germany, India, Uganda, and the USA.
Rural areas remain predominant in 62 countries, down from 116 in 1975, and are expected to drop to 44 by 2050. Sub-Saharan Africa is the only region still seeing rural growth, expected to account for most future rural population increases.
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