Discover the Most Populated Cities in China in 2024

China, a country in East Asia, is the world’s second most populous country after India, representing 17.39% of the world population. Stretching over 9.6 million square kilometers, and counted as the third-largest country by land area, its population density is 151 per Km2. 

It is home to the world’s most dynamic cities, upholding 1.4 billion people. From the historic towns and quaint villages to the robust lifestyle, and countless inventions, China offers a unique blend of ancient heritage and contemporary progress. Several urban centers serve as economic powerhouses, as well as cultural and technological hubs, fabulously shaping the country’s future. These metropolises are gateways that provide a deeper understanding of a nation’s significant growth and development, highlighting their resilience, innovation, and unwavering spirit. 

Let’s explore the top most populous cities of China, their distinct characteristics, financial stability, and cultural tapestry. 

List of the Top 10 Populated Cities in China 

Here is the list of top most populated cities in China. 

1. Shanghai
2. Beijing 
3. Tianjin
4. Guangzhou 
5. Shenzhen 
6. Wuhan 
7. Dongguan 
8. Chongqing
9. Chengdu
10. Nanjing

1. Shanghai 

Shanghai, the most populous urban area in China, is located on the Chinese shoreline of the Yangtze River. Featuring several architectural styles including Art Deco and Shikumen, the city has gained popularity for its Lujiazui skyline, ancient museum, and historic buildings. The City God Temple, Yu Garden, the China Pavilion, and an array of buildings along the Bund showcase its cultural richness and attract history buffs. While craving 6,340 square kilometers, the city holds approximately 29 million people currently. 

This urban center is home to the Shanghai Stock Exchange, one of the largest stock exchanges globally. Serving as a major manufacturing base via generating automobiles, electric appliances, petrochemicals, and more, this financial and industrial region significantly strengthens the country’s economic system.  

The world’s busiest and largest port also lies in Shanghai, revealing the booming economy of mainland China. Regarding trading, the volume of the city’s financial markets touched the peak of 3,373.6 trillion yuan and ranked first worldwide. 

If you’re planning to visit Shanghai, give a try to fried dumplings, a famous dish that has a crispy fried golden crust, combined with a hot and sweet soup inside. Enjoy a short getaway from Shanghai City to Zhujiajiao Water Town and unveil the classic Chinese buildings there. 

Best Time to Go: October to November 

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2. Beijing

Beijing, the capital city of China, houses many national monuments and museums, as well as eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city sprawls its significance through the emergence of culture, history, and beauty. Full of ancient temples and modern skyscrapers, it became the highest-earning tourist city in the world after Shanghai, in 2018. 

Beijing is not only a major industrial and commercial metropolis, but also well-renowned as the cultural, political, and intellectual center of the country, serving to enhance China’s economic growth. While hosting some of the globally recognized and prestigious universities including Tsinghua University, the city serves as an educational hub in China. Its extensive transportation, the bustling international airport, and high-speed rail connect people from the country’s hook and nook.

Nestled on the north of the North China Plain, it covers an area of 16,410.54 square kilometers. The world’s most populous national capital city is home to more than 22 million residents. 

This sprawling capital of China witnessed an incredible economic rebound, robust social welfare provisions, and solid advancements in high-quality development, as of the 2023 census. Its GDP reached CNY 4.4 trillion, demonstrating an increment of 5.2% when compared to last year.   

Must explore the myriad attractions of Beijing, which are enlisted as the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Ming Tombs, Zhoukoudian Peking Man Site, and Beijing Central Axis. Must visit China’s no.1 attraction “The Great Wall of Beijing.” 

Explode your taste buds by tasting Roast Duck, the iconic dish in Beijing, Jiaozi, the most representative Chinese food, and Zhajiangmian, a classic food of old Beijing. 

Best Time to Go: March to May & September to October 

3. Tianjin

Tianjin, a historical city, is full of exotic charm, comprising a unique cultural landscape that blends Chinese and Western elements. This metropolitan city is famous for its Five Great Avenues, home to more than 200 European-style buildings. 

The current population of Tianjin is recorded at more than 14 million in 2024, a 1.63% increase from 2023. It is the third largest city in China followed by Shanghai and Beijing. This cosmopolitan city is also known as “The Back Garden of Political China.” 

The largest coastal city, Tianjin, has a seaport that is filled with captivating historical areas. 

Step forward to discover the European buildings from Tianjin’s days as a treaty port, and the spectacular Qing Dynasty architecture, all contrasted with ultra-modern high-rises. Being the cradle of the country’s textile industry and mechanic industry, it serves as a major industrial center in China. 

While boasting unparalleled urban vitality from historical architecture to scenic riverscape, it also connects the north and the south through canals. The rivers of northeastern China merge in Tianjin. If the cost of living is a problematic factor, then it’s recommended to live in Tianjin, as it’s a cheaper alternative. Lettuce, prawn, Xiehuang, and shark’s fin are the favorite meal of people. 

Best Time to Go: March to May & September to November 

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4. Guangzhou 

Guangzhou, endowed with rich cultural and historical heritage, is one of China’s most dynamic cities that houses numerous ancient temples, modern attractions, and a vibrant lifestyle. It is the capital of South China’s Guangdong province, a major hub of the maritime Silk Road, and is honored as China’s Southern Gateway.  

The total population of Guangzhou is estimated almost 14 million in 2024, a 2.14% increase from 2023. Based on the current population statistics, it has become the fourth-largest city in China. Guangzhou mainly focuses on advanced manufacturing industries with three pillar industries such as automobiles, electronics, and petrochemical industry. The city’s significant efforts to develop high-tech industries, foster innovations and entrepreneurship. The GDP of Guangzhou amounted to 4.6% in 2023. 

Canton Fair, one of the largest trade fairs in China, is hosted in Guangzhou and attracts businesses from all over the world. 

This city spreads over 7434.4 square kilometers. Thanks to its location on the Pearl River, which made it a thriving center of commerce and trade. 

Blessed with blossoming flowers all year around, Guangzhou earned the title of “City of Flowers.” Its vibrant culinary scenes feature Cantonese cuisine and a variety of regional and international dishes. 

Best Time to Go: February to March & October to December

5. Shenzhen

Shenzhen is home to the Shenzhen Stock Exchange that serves as a leading hub for technology, international trade, and finance. Located in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, this innovation region in southern China is spread over the land of 1986 square kilometers. In 2024, the current metropolitan area population of Shenzhen is estimated as 13 million, an increment of 1.83% from 2023. The gross domestic product (GDP) had increased by 6% in 2023, as compared to the previous year. 

The city is renowned for its shopping destinations such as Luohu Commercial City. This massive mall offers a vast array of wares, ranging from custom clothing to faux designer bags, and expensive high heels. 

Shenzhen Safari Park and Splendid China Folk Village are the city’s famous outdoor attractions. Unveil the ancient civilization at He Xiangning Art Museum, Shenzhen Art Museum, and Nantou Ancient City Museum. Nature enthusiasts who’re looking for tranquility, can head towards Dameisha Beach, Nan’ao No.1 Sand Beach, and Xichong No.4 Sand Beach. 

Fuel your energy by trying Shrimp Dumplings, a traditional Cantonese dumpling filled with shrimp, and Stir-fried Noodles with Soy Sauce. 

Best Time to Go: March to April & October to November 

6. Wuhan

Wuhan, the major industrial and commercial city of Hubei, is situated on the confluence of the Han and Yangtze rivers, consisting of a conurbation of three adjacent former cities including Hankou, Hanyang, and Wuchang. It offers history, natural wonders, and the hum of a city in the midst of a tech boom. 

The estimated population of Wuhan is above 8 million in 2024, which grew about 1.53% from 2023. It is counted as the 6th largest city in China, based on the metropolitan area of population. The precise location along the Yangtze River makes it an important inland port, serving goods and cargo movements, thus significantly strengthening the economy. The domestic gross product of Wuhan increased by 5.7% in 2023, as compared to the previous year.

The jaw-dropping city’s attractions include the Yellow Crane Tower, the Hubei Provincial Museum, East Lake, the Han Show Theatre, and Guiyuan Temple. The lively street markets and malls allow visitors to wander around and shop for whatever they want. Use its extensive transportation, which connects the city to other corners of China. 

Wuhan cuisine specializes in soups and noodle dishes, like hot dry noodles. The dry pots, out of the spicy and hot section, come with a base of mixed vegetables, potato, cauliflower, celery, and wood ear mushroom. 

Best Time to Go: March to May

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7. Dongguan

Dongguan used to be known as  “The World’s Famous Factory,” but now it has become a hotspot for leisure travelers, seeking romantic sea views and scenic historical spots that behold the region’s exciting history. 

It is a prefectural city in central Guangdong province and one of China’s most important export centers. 

The current metro area population of Dongguan is recorded at more than 7.6 million, about 1.16% increase from 2023. In recent years, it has become the 7th largest city in China and a world-famous manufacturing base. The GDP data was reported at 1,143.813 RMB bn in 2023, an increase from the previous number of 1,120.032 RMB bn in 2022. 

Must explore the city’s enticing destinations like Humen Town, the Opium War Museum, Songshan Lake, Tongsha Ecological Park, Huyang Lake Waterland Park, and Qifeng Park. This beautiful city of China gives you a sense of old Guangdong, the Cantonese culture, and unfolds the history of the past. 

Try out Dongguan-style goose, traditional Hakka cuisine, and mouthwatering fish balls. Indulge yourself in the well-renowned Dongguan-style dim sum with its delicate flavors and artistic presentations. 

Best Time to Go: Mid-October to Late November

8. Chongqing

Chongqing, a famous tourist city, offers fantastic mountain-river scenery along with a delightful combination of abundant historic and cultural sites. Situated in the central part of China, next to Hubei Province in the east and Sichuan Province in the west, Chongqing spans over the land of 82,000 square kilometers. 

With a total population of 7.5 million inhabitants, it is entitled as the 8th most populous city in China. The gross domestic product amounted to approximately 3.01 trillion yuan in 2023, which increased from 2.91 trillion yuan in the previous year.    

Discover the charming cultural district in Chongqing by visiting Hongyadong Folk, featuring traditional architecture perched along the riverbanks, and adorned with vibrant red lanterns, as well as intricate wooden fabrics. There is a family-friendly spot, Chongqing Zoo, that houses a wide array of mammal species, birds, and fishes. Be a part of some joyful items like a carousel, mini-train riding, and thrilling rides including inertia pulley and water splash, at the amusement park inside the zoo.

Come across the Three Gorges Museum which exhibits the gorges and Chinese history. An amazing place in central Chongqing, Ciqikou, is a popular tourist attraction, boasting an ancient Town by the river and is restored to the right degree.   

Best Time to Go: March to May & September to October 

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9. Chengdu

Chengdu, the capital city of southwestern China’s Sichuan province, earned fame for its Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where visitors love to watch endangered giant pandas in their natural habitat. 

With a long history dating back over 2,300 years, the city reflects the ancient lifestyle and is well renowned for its rich cultural heritage, as well as a growing sector of economic and technological hub. 

It holds about 7.4 million people and is considered as the 9th major populous city of China. Emerging as a hub for technology and innovation, it attracts major companies and startups in industries including electronics, software, and biotechnology. The city’s gross domestic product reached around 2.21 trillion yuan in 2023. 

Chengdu surprisingly enhanced quality of life and urban management via some leveraging technologies such as 5G and artificial intelligence. 

Anshun Bridge, Tianfu Square, Luodai Ancient Town, Kuan Alley, and Zhai Alley are the city’s must-visit destinations. History enthusiasts can rediscover the neolithic inhabitants of the region, their lifestyle, religion, and art, at the Jinsha Site Museum Tourist Center. 

Best Time to Go: March to June & September to November 

10. Nanjing

Nanjing encompasses a human historical landscape, breathtaking mountains, and floating waterways. Located in the southwestern corner of the province, it is the capital city of Jiangsu in eastern China.  

Nanjing, often referred to as the “City of Ducks,”  facilitates visitors with their traditional dish “Salted Duck.” Other famous meals of this enchanting city include Kung Pao Chicken, Hot Pot, Mapo Tofu, Char Siu, and Wonton Soup. 

The current population of Nanjing is recorded around 7.1 million, making it the 10th most populous Chinese city. 

The estimated data reported, its gross domestic product (GDP) was almost 1,742.140 RMB bn in 2023, an increase from the previous number of 1,690.785 RMB bn in the previous year. 

The City Wall of Nanjing, the Presidential Palace, the Jiming Temple, Gate of China are jaw-dropping historical sites. Enjoy a sunset view at the peak of Zijin Mountain, unveil the city’s mother river carving its way amidst the town at Qinhuai He, and capture some scenic views of Xuanwu Lake Point. 

Best Time to Go: March to June & October to November 

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A Table Comparison of the Populated Cities in China 

No.	Most Populated Cities in China	Population (2024)
1	Shanghai	Approximately 29 million
2	Beijing	More than 22 million
3	Tianjin	More than 14 million
4	Guangzhou	Approximately 14 million
5	Shenzhen	Nearly 13 million
6	Wuhan	More than 8 million
7	Dongguan	Above 7.6 million
8	Chongqing	Approximately 7.5 million
9	Chengdu	Almost 7.4 million
10	Nanjing	Nearly 7.1 million

Conclusion 

China boasts the world’s most populated cities, representing its economic transformation and urban development. From Shanghai to Beijing, Guangzhou, Wuhan, Chongqing, and Nanjing, each urban city remains at the forefront of innovation, propelling the country’s economic strength and shaping a better future for generations. 

Despite the significance of the increased population, these remarkable centers showcase their unique strengths, the nation’s diversity, resilience, and ambition. 

FAQ’s

What Is the Largest Urban Area in China?

Shanghai is the largest urban city in China, with a current population of 29 million, a 2.25% increase from 2023. 

How Many Muslims Are in Shanghai?

According to an estimation, about 60,000 Muslims live in Shanghai, a city of nearly 30 million people. 

Is Shanghai Bigger Than Beijing?

Beijing is the capital and largest city of China, while the urban population of Shanghai is more concentrated making it the most populous city.

Is Shanghai the Richest City in China?

With a GDP of US$670 billion, Shanghai is the business capital of China, and has the world’s busiest container port “ The Port of Shanghai.”  

What Is Special About China?

The country’s landscape comprises five major landforms including mountain, plateau, hill, plain, and basin. China has the world’s tallest mountain “Mount Everest,” and the world’s highest and largest plateau, as well as extensive coastal plains.