Jakarta has officially surpassed Tokyo to become the world’s most populous city, according to the United Nations’ World Urbanisation Prospects 2025 report. With a population of 42 million, the Indonesian capital now tops a list dominated by fast-growing Asian megacities, reflecting shifting global urban dynamics.
The change comes after the UN adopted a new, standardised methodology for defining and measuring city populations. By relying on consistent geospatial and population density criteria, the updated framework provides a clearer picture of true urban extents—boosting cities like Jakarta and Dhaka while reducing Tokyo’s long-held top position.
Top 3 Most Populous Cities (2025)
- Jakarta – 42 million
- Dhaka – 37 million
- Tokyo – 33 million
Asia now hosts 9 of the world’s 10 largest cities, showcasing the region’s rapid economic expansion, urban migration, and rising megacity clusters.
The report highlights broader urbanisation trends: nearly half of the world’s 8.2 billion people now live in cities, and by 2050, two-thirds of global population growth will occur in urban areas. The number of megacities has risen from just 8 in 1975 to 33 in 2025.
Tokyo, despite falling to third place, remains a major global metropolis but faces demographic decline consistent with Japan’s ageing population. Jakarta’s rise, meanwhile, underscores both opportunity and urgency—its booming population intensifies pressure on infrastructure, environment, and governance, even as it boosts innovation and economic potential.
The UN emphasises that urbanisation, when managed well, can be a powerful engine for climate action, social equity, and sustainable growth.
