Egypt is home to 114 million people in 2024. The top three most populated cities are Cairo, Alexandria, and Giza. These cities are centers of culture and history, attracting millions of local and international people each year. These cities also play an important role in the country’s economy. Let’s move forward and discover Egypt’s top 10 most populated cities in 2024. 

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List of 10 Most Populated Cities in Egypt

• Cairo
• Alexandria
• Giza
• Port Said
• Suez 
• Al Mahallah al Kubra
• Luxor
• Asyut
• Al Mansurah
• Tanda

1- Cairo

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is projected to reach a population of approximately 7.7 million in 2024. The numbers mark a significant increase of about 440,000 people from the previous year, reflecting a growth rate of around 1.99% annually. The rapid urbanization highlights Cairo’s status as one of the largest cities in the Arab world.

The population growth in Cairo is driven by several factors, including rural-to-urban migration and high birth rates. People flock to the city in search of better job opportunities, education, and healthcare. 

However, this influx poses serious challenges. Cairo’s infrastructure struggles to keep pace with the growing population. Traffic congestion, inadequate public transport, and limited housing contribute to a declining quality of life for many residents.

Demographically, Cairo faces significant challenges. Approximately 60% of its citizens live near or below the poverty line. The Egyptian government has recognized these challenges, labeling the rapid population growth as a potential threat to economic stability and development.

2- Alexandria

Alexandria is Egypt’s second most populous city. It is projected to have a population of approximately 3.8 million in 2024. The city’s population has grown significantly since 1950, when it stood at just over 1 million residents. The growth in Alexandria’s population can be attributed to several factors, including migration from rural areas and high birth rates. 

The city’s population density stands at around 4,800 people per square mile, leading to overcrowded living conditions. These numbers have contributed to problems such as traffic congestion, inadequate housing, and strained public services.

Another challenge is the uneven distribution of the population within the city. Many of Alexandria’s residents live in informal settlements or slums, where access to basic amenities like clean water and sanitation is limited. 

Despite these challenges, Alexandria remains an important cultural center in Egypt. The city is also home to several universities and is a popular tourist destination, known for its ancient landmarks. 

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3- Giza

Giza is the third most populous city in Egypt. It is projected to have a population of approximately 2.4 million in 2024. This city has seen steady growth over the years, with an annual increase of around 1.8% expected by the end of 2024. 

The city’s population growth can be attributed to several factors, including migration from rural areas and natural population increase. People are drawn to Giza for its proximity to Cairo and the availability of job opportunities. However, such numbers of people have also led to some challenges.

Despite these challenges, Giza remains an important economic hub in Egypt. The city is also home to the iconic Giza Pyramids, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which attracts millions of tourists each year. 

4- Port Said

In 2024, Port Said is projected to have a population of approximately 538,378. The fourth most populated city in Egypt is located at the northern entrance of the Suez Canal. Port Said has long been a vital hub for trade and commerce, attracting people from various regions seeking opportunities.

The population growth in Port Said is driven by its strategic location as a port city. Many residents migrate here for jobs in shipping, logistics, and tourism. However, this rapid growth brings its own set of challenges.

The city’s roads and public transport systems are often congested, making daily commutes difficult. As more people settle in Port Said, the demand for housing has surged, leading to inflated real estate prices. Many families find it hard to secure affordable housing. 

On the other hand, Port Said faces environmental challenges. The increase in population has led to greater waste production and pollution, particularly in coastal areas. The local government struggles to manage waste effectively, impacting the quality of life for residents.

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5- Suez 

In 2024, the city of Suez is projected to have a population of approximately 488,125. It is located at the southern end of the Suez Canal. The city has always been an important hub for trade and transportation, drawing people in search of jobs and better living conditions.

One reason for Suez’s population expansion is its economic potential, especially in the shipping and logistics industries. Many individuals migrate here for employment in the port and related industries but the city needs to deal with several issues brought on by this population increase.

As the population grows, the demand for housing, transportation, and public services increases. Numerous neighborhoods are becoming overcrowded. This situation forces some residents into informal settlements, where living conditions can be harsh.

The increase in population has also led to more waste generation and pollution, particularly near the canal. Healthcare and education services are also under pressure. With more people in the city, hospitals and schools are becoming increasingly crowded. 

6- Al Mahallah al Kubra

Al Mahallah al Kubra is located in Egypt’s Nile Delta region. As of 2024, the city’s metro area population stands at 431,052. The steady growth reflects the city’s ongoing development and its ability to attract residents from other parts of the country.

Over the past few years, Al Mahallah al Kubra has experienced consistent population growth. The upward trend is expected to continue as the city’s industries and infrastructure expand to accommodate the growing population.

As the population grows, the demand for jobs may increase. The local government is planning to launch multiple initiatives to ensure that the market remains competitive.

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7- Luxor

In 2024, Luxor has a population of approximately 422,407 people. Luxor’s population growth is due to several factors, including its status as a major tourist destination. The city is home to iconic archaeological sites like the Valley of the Kings and the Karnak Temple.

The tourists not only boost the local economy but also look forward to settling in the area. However, the population increase presents several challenges. The city’s roads, public transportation, and utilities are struggling to keep pace with the growing demand. 

Another significant challenge is environmental sustainability. Luxor faces issues related to waste management and water supply. The local government is tasked with finding solutions to these problems while maintaining the city’s rich cultural heritage.

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8- Asyut

As of 2024, the city of Asyut has a population of approximately 420,585 residents. It is also known as the capital of the modern Asyut Governorate in Egypt. The urbanization rate in Asyut is relatively low, with only about 26.5% of the population residing in urban settings.

Migration from neighboring rural areas is one of the reasons contributing to Asyut’s growth. Many people come to the city for job opportunities, particularly in agriculture and small-scale industries. 

One of the major issues Asyut faces is poverty. The region has one of the highest poverty rates in Egypt, with more than 50% of its residents living below the poverty line. The economic strain is compounded by inadequate infrastructure and public services. 

Asyut also struggles with waste management and environmental sustainability. The rapid population growth has resulted in increased waste production, and the existing systems are often overwhelmed. 

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9- Al Mansurah

Al Mansurah is the ninth most populated city in Egypt. It is projected to have a population of approximately 420,195 in 2024. Over the past few decades, Al Mansurah has transformed from a smaller urban area into one of Egypt’s most populated cities but there are drawbacks to this quick expansion as well.

The city’s infrastructure is struggling to accommodate the increasing population. Today, traffic congestion has become a daily reality in Al Mansurah, leading to longer commute times and increased pollution levels. The situation can lead to disparities in living standards and increased pressure on local authorities.

On the other hand, the environment is also suffering. Green spaces are diminishing, and the risk of overexploitation of resources is growing. As Al Mansurah continues to expand, finding a balance between development and sustainability will be crucial for the city’s future. 

10- Tanda

Tanda is one of the most populated cities in Egypt. Its current population is estimated to be around 404,901. Tanda’s growth rate is also influenced by factors such as urban migration and higher birth rates, which are common in many Egyptian cities.

The population growth in Tanda presents several challenges. Firstly, the city’s infrastructure and governance. Secondly, education and health care. Many families face difficulties accessing essential services, leading to concerns about quality of life.

The rapid growth of the population has threatened local ecosystems. Today, water scarcity is another critical concern in Tanda, as the demand for water resources rises with the growing population. Lastly, population growth is also causing  higher unemployment rates. 

Ranking	City	Population
1	Cairo	7.7 million
2	Alexandria	3.8 million
3	Giza	2.4 million
4	Port Said	538,378
5	Suez	488,125
6	Al Mahallah al Kubra	431,052
7	Luxor	422,407
8	Asyut	420,585
9	Al Mansurah	420,195
10	Tanda	404,901

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Conclusion

The population data reveals that Egypt’s major cities are experiencing significant growth, with the top 10 most populated cities collectively home to millions of people. The capital city alone accounts for nearly 7 million residents, highlightingits role as the economic and cultural heart of the nation. 

However, this rapid urbanization presents challenges in terms of infrastructure, housing, and resource allocation. Cities must adapt to accommodate these residents while ensuring access to essential services and amenities. Investments in public transportation, affordable housing, and sustainable development will be crucial in addressing the needs of Egypt’s growing urban population.

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