Tokyo tops the list of the world’s biggest cities (Image: Getty)
The world’s population is steadily rising and is expected to keep growing until around 2100. After that, many experts believe it could start to decline. But for now, the number of people living on the planet continues to grow, and so do the world’s biggest cities.
Cities are expanding faster than ever, with millions moving from rural towns in search of jobs, education, and better living standards. Some of these places now hold more people than entire countries. Here, the Express looks at the 10 biggest cities on the planet in 2025, based on population numbers from the World Population Review. Combined together, all 10 cities have a population of around 257 million.
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Tokyo is the largest city in the world, with around 37 million people (Image: Getty)
Tokyo, Japan – 37 million
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.
Delhi’s population has soared over the past few decades (Image: Getty)
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.
Shanghai is the most populated city in China (Image: Getty)
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.
Dhaka is one of the most densely populated cities in the world (Image: Getty)
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.
Greater Cairo has around 23 million residents (Image: Getty)
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.
Sao Paulo is home to nearly 23 million people (Image: Getty)
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.
Mexico City has around 22.7 million residents (Image: Getty)
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.
Beijing has around 22.5 million people living in its metropolitan area (Image: Getty)
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.
Mumbai is one of India’s busiest and most important cities (Image: Getty)
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.
Osaka rounds off the list with around 18.9 million people (Image: Getty)
Osaka, Japan – 18.9 million
Osaka rounds off the list with around 18.9 million people living across its wider metro area, which includes Kyoto and Kobe.
While population growth in Japan has slowed overall, Osaka remains an important industrial and commercial centre.
It’s also known for its food, history and lively culture.