Global Overview of Cities

May 2025

Urban markets are undergoing rapid transformation, shaped by demographic shifts, rising incomes, evolving consumer preferences and accelerating digitalisation. This report offers insights and forecasts on economic, demographic and consumer spending trends across global cities over the period to 2040, highlighting emerging growth opportunities, from expanding urban hubs in Asia and Africa to the silver economy in ageing developed markets.

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Top five trends uncovered

Urban consumption hubs

Accounting for 80% of global consumer spending growth by 2040, urban areas provide multiple pockets of opportunities for businesses. However, rapidly evolving consumer preferences and competitive landscapes require businesses to stay agile and focus on proactive strategies, leveraging innovative solutions and a customer-centric approach.

Emerging stars of Asia

Emerging Asian cities represent the next frontier for business growth, supported by strong economic prospects, burgeoning consumer bases and an improving business climate. Fast-growing second-tier cities present further opportunities, with lower operational costs and untapped consumer potential.

Urban resilience and sustainability

With cities generating roughly 70% of global emissions, urban sustainability remains a pressing issue. While governments are investing in green energy, efficient infrastructure and waste reduction, companies face mounting pressure to integrate sustainability into supply chains, operations and offerings to enhance resilience and meet evolving client expectations.

Urban digitalisation

Rapid urban digitalisation is creating smart ecosystems, where businesses can leverage technology for optimisation, automation and enhanced consumer engagement. By 2040, with most urban households online, businesses must meet demand for seamless, digital-first interactions across industries.

Ageing and health shifts

The rising focus on health and wellness, coupled with the rapid ageing of urban populations, especially in developed economies, is driving demand for health-focused products and services, and age-friendly solutions. This shift creates opportunities across industries – from fitness and nutrition to health tech, smart home innovations and leisure services.

 

Our expert’s view of cities in 2025
Key findings
Economic shifts, income growth and digitalisation open new urban frontiers
Top five trends in cities
Top five trends uncovered
Drivers of consumer markets and impact on cities
Global cities in 2024: Summary
Asia and Africa continue to lead the global urban surge
Urban areas in India, Taiwan and the US enjoy dynamic economic growth
Developing European and Asian cities see fastest rise in average disposable incomes
Cities in Georgia, Bulgaria and Thailand record robust growth in household spending
High basic expenses limit discretionary spending in Africa and developing Asia
Developing markets to drive most of the urbanisation growth by 2040
Six new megacities to emerge by 2040
Rapid urbanisation in Africa strains urban infrastructure and public services
East Asian cities to see fastest ageing, unlocking silver economy opportunities
Future economic growth to be led by developing cities with high economic potential
US cities to remain the most affluent yet large income gaps persist
Chinese cities to record disposable income levels similar to advanced economies
Number of USD100 billion+ markets to more than double in emerging economies
Leveraging global urban shifts for future growth
Opportunities for growth
Our expert’s view of cities to 2040
GDP ranking
Disposable income ranking
Disposable income by band ranking
Consumer expenditure ranking
Population ranking
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