Ethiopia is home to more than 132 million people in 2024, with its cities rapidly expanding in population. The capital city Addis Ababa stands out as the most populated city. Following closely is Dire Dawa. The third city is Mek’ele. The trend of urbanization reflects a demographic shift, as more people migrate from rural areas to urban centers in search of better living conditions and job prospects. Let’s move forward and explore the top 10 most populated cities in Ethiopia.

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List of Top 10 Most Populated Cities in Ethiopia 

• Addis Ababa
• Dire Dawa
• Mek’ele
• Nazret
• Bahir Dar
• Gondar
• Dese
• Hawassa
• Jimma
• Bishoftu

1- Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa is the capital of Ethiopia, with a population of approximately 2,757,729 in 2024. The numbers indicate an increase, reflecting a growth rate of about 4.45% annually. However, the combination of a high population growth rate and lack of development presents several challenges.

The city struggles with infrastructure and housing shortages are prevalent. Access to basic services like healthcare and education is also strained. Culturally, the majority of the population belongs to the Amhara ethnic group, followed by the Oromo, Gurage, and Tigray communities.

The primary language spoken is Amharic, with Oromo and several other languages also spoken by smaller groups. The cultural diversity is reflected in the city’s music, dance, and cuisine. On the other hand, religious diversity also contributes to the community dynamics.

2- Dire Dawa

Dire Dawa is the second most populated city in Ethiopia, known for its history and strategic location. As of 2024, the population of Dire Dawa is estimated to be around 252,279. The city has been experiencing a steady growth trend, attributed to its role as a commercial hub and its proximity to the port of Djibouti, which facilitates trade and migration.

However, Dire Dawa faces issues related to infrastructure, such as inadequate transportation systems and limited access to essential services like healthcare and education. The city’s roads are often congested, and there is a pressing need for improved public transport options. 

Dire Dawa is primarily home to the Oromo, Somali, and Amhara people. The primary languages spoken are Amharic and Somali, with various local dialects also prevalent. The presence of historical sites, such as colonial-era buildings and mosques, adds to its cultural richness.

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3- Mek’ele

Mek’ele is the capital of the Tigray region in Ethiopia. As of 2024, the population is estimated to be around 215,546, reflecting a 4.26% increase from the previous year. The growth trend has been consistent due to its role as a commercial and administrative center.

However, the demand for housing in Mek’ele has surged, resulting in a shortage of affordable living spaces. Many residents find themselves in trouble, lacking basic services like clean water.

Culturally, Mek’ele is inhabited by the Tigray ethnic group, with Tigrinya as the primary language spoken by about 95% of the population. The majority of residents practice Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity, which influences local customs, festivals, and daily life.

4- Nazret

Nazret is the fourth most populated city in Ethiopia, with a population of 213,995 in 2024. The number represents a 4.43% increase from the previous year, continuing a trend of steady growth that has characterized the city over the past few years. 

The rapid population growth in Nazret brings several challenges. The city faces a lack of infrastructure, transportation, housing, and public services. On the other hand, Nazret is rich and diverse in culture. The language spoken is Oromo, with Amharic also widely used.

As Nazret continues to grow, resolving the concerns of urbanization while preserving its cultural heritage will be essential for the city’s sustainable development. The local government and community organizations are increasingly focusing on improving infrastructure and public services to enhance the quality of life.

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5- Bahir Dar

Bahir Dar is the fifth most populated city in Ethiopia. As of 2024, the population of Bahir Dar is estimated to be around 168,899. The growth is also due to its status as a major tourist destination, particularly due to its proximity to Lake Tana and the Blue Nile River.

Despite its beauty and potential, Bahir Dar faces several challenges related to rapid urbanization. Environmental issues, such as the pollution of Lake Tana, also pose significant threats to the city’s sustainability and the health of its residents.

Bahir Dar has made strides in urban planning, particularly with initiatives like the Bahir Dar Structure Plan – Vision 2035, aimed at addressing urban challenges and promoting sustainable development. 

6- Gondar

Gondar is the sixth most populated city in Ethiopia, known for its history and culture. As of 2024, its population is estimated to be around 153,914, reflecting a growth rate of 4.45%. The growth trend is indicative of Gondar’s importance as a regional hub.

The city also faces several challenges due to its increasing population. On the other hand, it is rich and diverse in culture. The city is renowned for its historical significance, particularly as the former capital of the Ethiopian Empire. 

It is home to the Fasil Ghebbi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features impressive castles and churches, earning Gondar the nickname “Camelot of Africa.” Festivals and religious events are integral to its community life, highlighting the culture of the city.

7- Dese

Dese, also known as Dessie, is the seventh most populated city in Ethiopia. As of 2024, its population is estimated to be around 136,056, reflecting a steady growth. On the other hand, Dessie faces several challenges related to this population growth. 

The city has seen an increase in traffic congestion, and many residents experience difficulties accessing clean water and sanitation facilities. The rapid urbanization has also led to a rise in informal living setups, where living conditions can be substandard.

Despite this troubling situation, the city is known for its beautiful landscapes and is often considered a gateway to the scenic Simien Mountains, which adds to its appeal as a tourist destination. 

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8- Hawassa

Hawassa, the capital of the Sidama region, is the eighth most populated city in Ethiopia. It is located on the shores of Lake Hawassa. As of 2024, its population is estimated to be approximately 133,097. This growth is driven largely by internal migration and the expansion of educational facilities.

Culturally, Hawassa is diverse, primarily inhabited by the Sidama ethnic group, which constitutes about 48.68% of the population. Other ethnic groups include the Amhara, Welayta, and Oromo. The primary language spoken is Sidamo, with Amharic also widely used. The city is known for its markets and traditions, influenced by Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. 

Hawassa is also an important economic center, home to the Hawassa Industrial Park, which focuses on apparel and textile production. The industrial development has created thousands of jobs, although it has faced challenges, particularly in recent years due to external market fluctuations.

9- Jimma

Jimma is the ninth most populated city in Ethiopia, with a population estimated at 128,306 in 2024. The numbers reflect a modest growth trend as the city continues to develop economically and socially. Jimma is also one of the largest cities in southwestern Oromia.

Culturally, Jimma is predominantly inhabited by the Oromo ethnic group, which constitutes about 89.6% of the population. The primary language spoken is Oromo. The city is known for its markets and traditional coffee ceremonies, reflecting the coffee culture of the region, as Jimma is situated in one of Ethiopia’s coffee-growing areas.

As far as the religion is concerned, Jimma is predominantly Muslim, with approximately 85.65% of the population practicing Islam, while 11.18% adhere to Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. 

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10- Bishoftu

Bishoftu, formerly known as Debre Zeyit, is one of the most populated cities in Ethiopia. As of 2024, its population is estimated to be around 104,215. Bishoftu is known for its stunning natural beauty, particularly its five crater lakes, including Lake Bishoftu and Lake Hora. 

The town faces several challenges due to its growth. Infrastructure development has struggled to keep pace with the rising population, leading to issues such as traffic congestion and limited access to essential services.

The town is rich in cultural heritage, with various festivals celebrated throughout the year, including the Irreecha festival, which is a Thanksgiving celebration for the Oromo people. Bishoftu also serves as a base for the Ethiopian Air Force and is home to several educational institutions, including the National Veterinary Institute.

Ranking	City	Population
1	Addis Ababa	2,757,729
2	Dire Dawa	252,279
3	Mek’ele	215,546
4	Nazret	213,995
5	Bahir Dar	168,899
6	Gondar	153,914
7	Dese	136,056
8	Hawassa	133,097
9	Jimma	128,306
10	Bishoftu	104,215

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Conclusion

The top ten most populated cities in Ethiopia highlight the country’s urbanization and demographic diversity. The capital city leads significantly, serving as the political and economic heart of the nation. Other cities, each with their unique cultural identities and histories, contribute to Ethiopian society.

As these cities grow, they face common challenges, including infrastructure strain, housing shortages, and access to basic services. The increasing population puts pressure on transportation, sanitation, and healthcare systems, necessitating strategic urban planning and investment.

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