What We're Showing
This infographic tracks how the world's 50 largest cities by population have changed across four different periods in time—1975, 2000, 2025, and 2050—using data from the United Nations.
Key Takeaways
- Since 1975, the world’s largest cities have shifted decisively from developed economies to Asia and Africa.
- By 2050, Asia and Africa are projected to account for 37 of the world’s 50 largest cities, reshaping the global urban hierarchy.
- Dhaka is projected to be the world's largest city in 2050, followed closely by Jakarta.
- Several cities that once dominated the rankings are projected to see slow growth—or fall sharply in rank—by mid-century.
