Chapter 1: The Rise of Urban Centers

Where do the majority of people reside in the world today? At least 20 million individuals call each of these colossal metropolises home. Below is a current overview of the five largest cities globally.

In 2022, the world's population reached a significant milestone with the birth of its 8-billionth inhabitant, likely occurring in one of the major urban areas. The continuous growth of our global population is predominantly due to increased life expectancy and changing living environments. The mass migration to urban areas began in earnest during the 19th and 20th centuries. Two centuries ago, fewer than 3 percent of the global population lived in cities. Presently, approximately 60 percent of individuals either reside in or were born in urban settings. A staggering 101 of the largest cities now account for 11 percent of the world's population. Research from the University of Toronto indicates that by the century's end, the epicenter of global life is expected to shift from the Far East to Africa, where urban areas are anticipated to evolve into massive metropolises.

Determining the largest cities in 2022 is complex, depending on whether one considers area, population density, or the total number of residents. The title of "largest city" could equally apply to an entire metropolitan area rather than just a single city. Furthermore, these urban centers are experiencing rapid growth, with increases in population and expansion of industrial sectors. Consequently, the rankings of the most populous cities are in constant flux.

Here are the five largest cities worldwide, ranked by population:

1. Tokyo, Japan: Approximately 37,435,191 residents.

   

The Japanese capital is home to roughly one in ten citizens of Japan. When considering the broader metropolitan area, which includes Kanagawa, Saitama, and Chiba, the total population of Tokyo swells to around 42 million—equivalent to half of Germany's population. Notably, during business hours, Tokyo's population surges by an additional 2.5 million commuters from nearby municipalities. The famed Shibuya Crossing is renowned as the busiest intersection globally. Compared to other major cities, Tokyo is predominantly homogeneous, with less than 3% of its residents being foreign nationals, primarily from Korea, the Philippines, the UK, and the US.

2. Delhi, India: Home to about 29,399,141 residents.

   

As the capital of India, Delhi serves as the hub of political and cultural activity, attracting numerous tourists. The city is administratively divided into 12 zones and spans an area of 1,483 square kilometers. The rapid growth of Delhi, especially in the 21st century, has led to a population increase of approximately 285,000, making it one of the fastest-growing cities. However, this expansion has not been accompanied by adequate improvements in social and sanitary conditions, with nearly half the population residing in slums. A report indicates that 22% of residents lack proper sanitation facilities.

3. Shanghai, China: Approximately 26,317,104 inhabitants.

   

In Shanghai, four out of ten residents were born outside the city, primarily migrating from provinces like Anhui and Jiangsu. This influx of migrants has fueled Shanghai's demographic growth, which, until 2010, was among the slowest globally. The population is predominantly Han Chinese, making up 98.2%, while the foreign population, predominantly Japanese and Americans, was officially recorded at just 150,000 in 2009. Shanghai boasts the highest life expectancy in mainland China at 83 years and is home to some of the tallest buildings worldwide.

4. São Paulo, Brazil: Approximately 21,846,507 residents.

   

As Brazil's largest city and the most populous Portuguese-speaking city globally, São Paulo is estimated to host around 110 different ethnic groups. Its long-standing tradition of welcoming migrants contributes to its vibrant diversity. Described by the Encyclopedia Britannica as a metropolis that embodies the highs and lows of modern megacities, São Paulo, affectionately known as Sampa, is recognized for its industrious spirit. A popular saying captures the essence of the city: "You earn in São Paulo to enjoy in Rio de Janeiro."

5. Mexico City, Mexico: Approximately 21,671,908 residents.

   

The metropolitan area of Mexico City encompasses 60 municipalities from the State of Mexico and one from Hidalgo. It not only has the highest population in North America but also boasts the greatest population density. Contrary to common perceptions, many municipalities within the State of Mexico exhibit high levels of human development. Nonetheless, stark contrasts exist between affluent neighborhoods and impoverished suburbs. A significant portion of the population (82%) identifies as Catholic, and the city hosts a large number of migrants from both North and South America, including the largest concentration of US citizens outside the United States, with nearly half a million Americans residing there.

Source: World Population Review

Chapter 2: Visual Insights into Global Urbanization

Explore the top five largest cities by population in 2023 and the dynamics shaping urban living in this informative video.

Delve into the characteristics and unique aspects of the world's largest cities in this engaging presentation.

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