2055 Megacities

By 2055, the world’s megacities—urban areas with populations exceeding 10 million—are projected to be even more populous and diverse than today, with the majority located in Asia and Africa. Cities like Lagos, Dhaka, and Kinshasa are expected to surpass 40 million residents each, outpacing traditional giants such as Tokyo and New York due to rapid urbanization and high birth rates. While Tokyo, historically the world’s largest city since the late 20th century, may see its population stabilize or decline due to Japan’s aging demographic, cities like Mumbai and Jakarta will continue expanding, fueled by migration and economic growth. In contrast, older megacities in Europe and North America, such as London and Los Angeles, will experience slower growth, focusing instead on sustainability and technological innovation to manage their dense populations. The histories of these megacities reveal patterns of industrialization, migration, and adaptation, with newer megacities often grappling with infrastructure challenges and informal settlements, while established ones leverage their long-standing institutions to reinvent urban living for the mid-21st century.

Data from UN World Urbanization Prospects