Nearly 45% of the world’s 8.2 billion people live in cities, doubling urban population share since 1950. This rapid growth changes how societies develop, how resources are used, and challenges governments to build sustainable, livable spaces for all, according to the World Urbanization Prospects 2025: Summary of Results, released by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA)
Since 1975, megacities with over 10 million residents have quadrupled from 8 to 33, mainly across Asia. Jakarta tops the list with nearly 42 million residents, followed by Dhaka and Tokyo. Projections estimate 37 megacities by 2050, adding urban giants in Africa and Asia like Addis Ababa and Dar es Salaam. Megacities influence global economics but face challenges like congestion and pollution.
Small and Medium Cities Grow Sharply
While megacities grab attention, most urban dwellers live in smaller cities under one million population, which grow faster especially in Africa and Asia. Of 12,000 cities studied, 96% have fewer than one million residents. These smaller urban centers often act as hubs for innovation and services, supporting diverse economic and social needs beyond megacity limits.
Diverse Urban Trends: Growth vs Decline
Some cities face population decline despite national growth, often under 250,000 residents, especially in China and India. Larger cities like Mexico City and Chengdu also shrink. Towns of 5,000+ connect rural and urban areas, providing vital services and economic opportunities in 71 countries, highlighting diverse urbanization pathways worldwide.
Rural Areas and Towns: Vital Links
Rural populations dominate in 62 countries today, down from 116 in 1975, with sub-Saharan Africa showing rural growth. Towns act as vital connectors providing services and supporting economies between urban and rural regions. This balance is crucial for integrated development strategies addressing urban and rural needs inclusively.
Urbanization’s Role in Climate and Development
Urbanization can accelerate climate action and economic growth when managed inclusively. Li Junhua of the UN underscores integrated national policies aligning housing, land use, and services to balance urban-rural development. Cities are pivotal arenas for implementing sustainable solutions and social equity in the 21st century.
Q&A Section
Q: How much of the global population lives in cities today?
A: About 45%, or roughly 3.7 billion people, live in urban areas in 2025.
Q: How many megacities exist and where are they mainly located?
A: There are 33 megacities, with 19 in Asia, including Jakarta, Dhaka, and Tokyo.
Q: Why are small and medium cities important in urban development?
A: They house the majority of urban residents, grow faster, and support local innovation and services.
Q: What roles do towns play in linking rural and urban populations?
A: Towns provide essential services and economic links, fostering balanced regional development in many countries.
FAQ
What is the Degree of Urbanization?
A spatial method classifying settlements into cities, towns, and rural areas to support nuanced urban studies and policies.
Are rural populations growing worldwide?
Rural populations decrease globally except in sub-Saharan Africa, where growth persists.
What will urban growth look like by 2050?
By 2050, two-thirds of global population growth will be in cities, and total cities may exceed 15,000.
Can urbanization help fight climate change?
Yes, with strategic governance, urbanization supports sustainable development and enhances climate resilience.
The UN’s World Urbanization Prospects 2025 report provides critical insights into how cities evolve as hubs of population, economy, and sustainability. The lowered threshold for city analysis to 50,000 inhabitants offers richer data on urban growth and land use changes. Navigating this urban age requires balanced policies that harness cities’ potential to drive inclusive, climate-friendly progress worldwide.
