The World’s New Megacities: Developing countries will dominate megacity growth over the next two decades
Table of Contents
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
In the grand tapestry of human civilization, megacities stand as towering monuments to the ingenuity, complexity, and sheer scale of urban life. Defined as urban areas with populations exceeding 10 million inhabitants, megacities are not merely geographic entities but thriving ecosystems of culture, economy, and diversity. Let’s embark on a journey to explore some of the world’s current megacities and speculate on the emerging giants that are poised to shape the future.
Key Facts
- Chicago will be the next city in the United States to reach 10 million+ in population.
- The population of Angola’s largest city (Luanda) is projected to increase by 60% by 2030.
- Jakarta is projected to be the world’s largest megacity in 2030.
- Japan’s largest cities are expected to experience a population decline.
Current Megacities: Titans of Today
Currently, there are 33 megacities on Earth: New York City, Los Angeles, Mexico, Lima, Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Rio, London, Paris, Moscow, Istanbul, Tehran, Cairo, Lagos, Tokyo, Osaka, Shanghai, Seoul, Tianjin, Beijing, Wuhan, Shenzen, Guangzhou, HCM, Bangkok, Dhaka, Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Karachi, Bangalore, Manika, Jakarta.
The map below shows the main megacity regions of the world, including population density and GDP created by Parag Khanna.
Top 5 largest megacities worldwide
- Tokyo, Japan: With a population exceeding 37 million in its metropolitan area, Tokyo is the undisputed king of megacities. It seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, pulsating with energy day and night.
- Delhi, India: India’s capital is a microcosm of the nation’s diversity, home to over 30 million people. Its vibrant streets teem with life, echoing centuries of history and culture.
- São Paulo, Brazil: South America’s largest city, São Paulo, is a sprawling metropolis of over 22 million residents. It serves as the economic engine of Brazil, bustling with trade, industry, and innovation.
- Shanghai, China: China’s financial hub, Shanghai, dazzles with its futuristic skyline and a population exceeding 27 million. It epitomizes the country’s rapid urbanization and economic growth.
- New York City, USA: The Big Apple, with its iconic skyline and the melting pot of cultures, boasts a population of over 20 million. It remains a global center for finance, media, and the arts.
Future Megacities: Rise of the Urban Giants
Another six megacities are on the way by 2030: Chicago, Bogota, Baghdad, Dar Es Salaam, Luanda, and Chennai. The map below, created by Visualcapitalist.com, using Euromonitor International Data shows the world’s new megacities in the near future.
Top 5 largest megacities in the near future
- Lagos, Nigeria: Africa’s largest city is on track to become a megacity in the coming decades, with its population projected to surpass 30 million by 2030. Its dynamic energy and entrepreneurial spirit are driving its ascent.
- Dhaka, Bangladesh: Dhaka’s population is rapidly increasing due to migration and high birth rates, with over 21 million residents currently.
- Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo: As one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities, Kinshasa is expected to exceed 20 million residents by 2030. Its strategic location along the Congo River positions it as a vital economic and cultural hub.
- Karachi, Pakistan: Pakistan’s largest city is already home to over 20 million people, and its population is projected to continue surging.
- Jakarta, Indonesia: With over 10 million residents currently, Jakarta is rapidly urbanizing, driven by migration and economic development. It faces significant challenges such as flooding and congestion but remains a beacon of opportunity for many Indonesians.
Interested in delving deeper into megacities? Explore these books for more insight.
Which, of course, will bring about a horde of blame-the-victim Racist actions against the Third World.