There are many factors that contribute to a city’s wealth, including its location, its economic base, and its quality of life. Cities that are located in wealthy countries or regions are more likely to be rich. Cities that are home to major industries, such as finance or technology, are also more likely to be rich. And cities that have a high standard of living, with good education, healthcare, and infrastructure, are also more likely to be rich, here are the current Top 10 Richest Metropolitan Cities in the World.
10. Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region
Country: Germany
Largest Cities: Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Essen, Duisburg, Bochum, Wuppertal, Bonn
GDP
nominal: US$636.449 billion
PPP: US$698.982 billion
GDP per capita
nominal: US$56,323
PPP: US$61,857
Population: 11,300,000
Area: 7,110 km2 (2,750 sq mi)
The Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region is the largest metropolitan region in Germany, with over eleven million inhabitants. It is a major economic center and home to a number of Fortune 500 companies, including Thyssenkrupp, Bayer, and E.ON. The region is also a major transportation hub, with the Ruhr area being the largest inland port in Europe.
The Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region is a diverse and cosmopolitan area, with people from all over the world living and working there. The region is home to a number of universities, including the University of Cologne, the University of Duisburg-Essen, and the Technical University of Dortmund. The Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region is also a major cultural center, with a number of museums, theaters, and art galleries.
Some of the most popular tourist destinations in the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region include:
- The Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a former coal mine that has been converted into a museum and cultural center.
- The Museum Folkwang: This museum houses a collection of modern and contemporary art.
- The MediaPark: This is a media and creative industries hub in Cologne.
- The Rheinpark: This is a large park in Düsseldorf that is home to a variety of gardens, fountains, and sculptures.
- The Grugapark: This is a large park in Essen that is home to a variety of gardens, fountains, and sculptures.
- The Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral): This is a Gothic cathedral that is one of the most iconic landmarks in Germany.
- The Altstad (Old Town) of Düsseldorf: This is a historic district in Düsseldorf that is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
- The Ruhr Museum: This museum tells the story of the Ruhr region, from its coal mining past to its present-day status as a major economic center.
The Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region is a vibrant and exciting place to live, work, and visit. It is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, and it offers something for everyone.
9. Shanghai
Country: China
Largest Cities: Shanghai
GDP
nominal: US$663.874 billion
PPP: US$2.506 trillion
GDP per capita
nominal: US$26,747
PPP: US$43,833
Population: 26,875,500
Area: 14,922.7 km2 (5,761.7 sq mi)
Shanghai is the most populous city in China, with a population of over 26 million people. It is located in eastern China, on the southern estuary of the Yangtze River. Shanghai is a major economic center, with a GDP of US663.874 billion in 2022. It is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies, including the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, the Bank of China, and the China Construction Bank. Shanghai is also a major transportation hub, with the Port of Shanghai being the world’s busiest container port.
Shanghai is a city of contrasts, with a rich history and culture. It is home to both traditional Chinese neighborhoods and modern skyscrapers. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Shanghai include:
- The Bund: A waterfront promenade lined with colonial-era buildings.
- Shanghai Tower: The tallest building in China and the world’s third-tallest building by height to the architectural top.
- The Oriental Pearl Tower: A 468-meter-tall tower with observation decks offering panoramic views of the city.
- The Yu Garden: A beautiful Chinese garden with traditional architecture.
- The Shanghai Museum: A large museum with a collection of Chinese art and artifacts.
- The Former French Concession: A historic district with European-style architecture.
8. Keihanshin
Country: Japan
Largest Cities: Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe
GDP
nominal: US$699.474 billion
PPP: US$897.418 billion
GDP per capita
nominal: US$36,601
PPP: US$46,958
Population: 19,111,000
Area: 13,228 km2 (5,107 sq mi)
Keihanshin is a metropolitan area in western Japan, centered on the cities of Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe. It is the second-largest metropolitan area in Japan, after the Greater Tokyo Area. Keihanshin is home to over 19 million people and is a major economic, cultural, and transportation hub.
The name Keihanshin is a portmanteau of the names of the three major cities in the area: Keyō (Osaka), Hanshin (Kobe), and Shinsai (Kyoto). The area is also known as the Kansai region, which is a broader geographical area that includes Keihanshin as well as other cities such as Nara and Wakayama.
Keihanshin is a diverse and cosmopolitan area, with people from all over the world living and working there. The area is home to a number of universities, including Osaka University, Kyoto University, and Kobe University. Keihanshin is also a major cultural center, with a number of museums, theaters, and art galleries.
Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Keihanshin include:
- Osaka Castle: This iconic castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Japa
- Kiyomizu-dera: This Buddhist temple is one of the most important cultural landmarks in Japan.
- Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: This bamboo forest is a popular spot for walking, hiking, and photography.
- Dotonbori: This lively district is known for its neon lights, restaurants, and shops.
- Shinsaibashi: This shopping district is home to a wide variety of stores, from high-end boutiques to traditional Japanese shops.
- Kyoto Station: This train station is a major transportation hub and is home to a number of shops and restaurants.
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): This Buddhist temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kyoto.
- Nara: This ancient city is home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Todai-ji Temple.
7. Chicago metropolitan area
Country: United States of America
Largest Cities: Chicago, Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, Elgin, Waukegan, Kankakee, Gary, Hammond, Michigan City, Kenosha
GDP
nominal: US$714.697 billion
PPP: US$714.697 billion
GDP per capita
nominal: US$72,882
PPP: US$72,882
Population: 9,806,184
Area: 28,120 km2 (10,856 sq mi)
The Chicago metropolitan area, also colloquially referred to as Chicagoland, is the metropolitan area of the City of Chicago, which includes its surrounding suburbs and satellite cities. The Chicago metropolitan area is the third-largest metropolitan area in the United States, after the New York metropolitan area and the Los Angeles metropolitan area. It is also the second-most populous metropolitan area in the Midwest, after the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area.
Chicago is a major economic center, with a GDP of over $700 billion. The area is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies, including Boeing, McDonald’s, and United Airlines. Chicago is also a major transportation hub, with O’Hare International Airport being one of the busiest airports in the world.
Chicago is a diverse and cosmopolitan area, with people from all over the world living and working there. The area is home to a number of universities, including the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, and DePaul University. Chicago is also a major cultural center, with a number of museums, theaters, and art galleries.
Some of the most popular tourist destinations in the Chicago metropolitan area include:
- The Loop: This is the central business district of Chicago and is home to a number of skyscrapers, including the Willis Tower.
- Navy Pier: This waterfront amusement park is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
- Millennium Park: This park is home to a number of popular attractions, including the Cloud Gate (Bean) and the Lurie Garden.
- Magnificent Mile: This is a stretch of Michigan Avenue that is home to a number of high-end stores and restaurants.
- The Art Institute of Chicago: This museum is home to a collection of over 300,000 works of art, including “The Thinker” by Rodin and “American Gothic” by Grant Wood.
- Wrigley Field: This baseball stadium is home to the Chicago Cubs and is one of the oldest and most famous stadiums in the United States.
- Soldier Field: This football stadium is home to the Chicago Bears and is one of the largest stadiums in the United States.
6. Seoul Capital Area
Country: Republic of Korea
Largest Cities: Seoul, Incheon, Suwon, Ansan, Anyang, Goyang, Seongnam, Bucheon, Yongin
GDP
nominal: US$926.790 billion
PPP: US$1.16 trillion
GDP per capita
nominal: US$35,595
PPP: US$44,552
Population: 26,037,000
Area: 12,685 km2 (4,898 sq mi)
The Seoul Capital Area, also known as the Greater Seoul Area, is the metropolitan area of Seoul, South Korea. It includes the city of Seoul and its surrounding satellite cities and towns. The area has a population of over 26 million people, making it the most populous metropolitan area in South Korea and the sixth-most populous metropolitan area in the world.
The Seoul Capital Area is a major economic, cultural, and transportation hub in South Korea. It is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies, including Samsung, Hyundai, and LG. The area is also a major transportation hub, with Incheon International Airport being one of the busiest airports in the world.
The Seoul Capital Area is a diverse and cosmopolitan area, with people from all over the world living and working there. The area is home to a number of universities, including Seoul National University, Korea University, and Yonsei University. The Seoul Capital Area is also a major cultural center, with a number of museums, theaters, and art galleries.
Some of the most popular tourist destinations in the Seoul Capital Area include:
- Gyeongbokgung Palace: This is the most famous palace in Seoul and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Insadong: This is a traditional Korean neighborhood that is home to a number of shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
- Myeongdong: This is a popular shopping district that is home to a number of high-end stores and restaurants.
- Namsan Tower: This tower offers panoramic views of Seoul and is a popular tourist destination.
- N Seoul Tower It is a communications and observation tower in Seoul, South Korea. At 236 meters (774 ft), it is the second-tallest structure in Seoul after the Lotte World Tower, and the 50th tallest structure in South Korea.
- Lotte World: This is an amusement park that is home to a number of rides, shows, and attractions.
- Dongdaemun Market: This is a large traditional market that is home to a wide variety of goods.
5. Paris metropolitan area
Country: France
Largest Cities: Paris
GDP
nominal: US$934.168 billion
PPP: US$1.04 trillion
GDP per capita
nominal: US$71,504
PPP: US$79,604
Population: 13,064,617
Area: 18,941 km2 (7,313 sq mi)
The Paris metropolitan area, also known as the Île-de-France, is a metropolitan area in France that is centered on the city of Paris. It is the most populous metropolitan area in France, with over 13 million inhabitants.
The Paris metropolitan area is a major economic, cultural, and transportation hub in France. It is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies, including BNP Paribas, AXA, and L’Oréal. The area is also a major transportation hub, with Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport being one of the busiest airports in Europe.
The Paris metropolitan area is a diverse and cosmopolitan area, with people from all over the world living and working there. The area is home to a number of universities, including the University of Paris, the École Polytechnique, and the Sorbonne University. The Paris metropolitan area is also a major cultural center, with a number of museums, theaters, and art galleries.
Some of the most popular tourist destinations in the Paris metropolitan area include:
- The Eiffel Tower: This iconic tower is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world.
- The Louvre Museum: This museum is home to a collection of over 350,000 works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
- The Notre Dame Cathedral: This Gothic cathedral is one of the most important architectural landmarks in France.
- The Arc de Triomphe: This triumphal arch is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris.
- The Champs-Élysées: This famous avenue is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
- The Latin Quarter: This historic district is home to the University of Paris and is a popular spot for students and tourists alike.
- Montmartre: This hilltop district is home to the Sacré-Coeur basilica and is a popular spot for tourists and artists alike.
4. London metropolitan area
Country: United Kingdom
Largest Cities: London
GDP
nominal: US$978.402 billion
PPP: US$1.06 trillion
GDP per capita
nominal: US$68,621
PPP: US$74,344
Population: 14,257,962
Area: 8,382 km2 (3,236 sq mi)
The London metropolitan area is a metropolitan area in the United Kingdom that is centered on the city of London. It is the most populous metropolitan area in the United Kingdom, with over 14 million inhabitants.
The London metropolitan area is a major economic, cultural, and transportation hub in the United Kingdom. It is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies, including HSBC, Shell, and BP. The area is also a major transportation hub, with London Heathrow Airport being one of the busiest airports in the world.
The London metropolitan area is a diverse and cosmopolitan area, with people from all over the world living and working there. The area is home to a number of universities, including the University of London, the Imperial College London, and the King’s College London. The London metropolitan area is also a major cultural center, with a number of museums, theaters, and art galleries.
Some of the most popular tourist destinations in the London metropolitan area include:
- Buckingham Palace: This is the official residence of the British monarch and is a popular tourist destination.
- The Tower of London: This historic castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London.
- The Houses of Parliament: This iconic building is home to the Parliament of the United Kingdom and is a popular tourist destination.
- The London Eye: This giant Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of London and is a popular tourist destination.
- Piccadilly Circus: This is a famous intersection in London and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
- Oxford Street: This is the busiest shopping street in London and is a popular spot for shoppers and tourists alike.
- Camden Town: This is a trendy district in London that is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.
3. Greater Los Angeles
Country: United States of America
Largest Cities: Los Angeles, Anaheim, Burbank, Carson, Chino, Compton, Costa Mesa, Corona, Fontana, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Glendale, Hesperia, Huntington Beach, Inglewood, Irvine, Laguna Beach, Lancaster, Long Beach, Menifee, Mission Viejo, Moreno Valley, Murrieta, Newport Beach, Norwalk, Ontario, Orange, Oxnard, Palmdale, Pasadena, Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, Rialto, Riverside, San Bernardino, Santa Ana, Santa Clarita, Santa Monica, Thousand Oaks, Temecula, Torrance, Ventura, Victorville, West Covina
GDP
nominal: US$1.13 trillion
PPP: US$1.13 trillion
GDP per capita
nominal: US$61,276
PPP: US$61,276
Population: 18,490,242
Area: 87,940 km2 (33,954 sq mi)
Greater Los Angeles (also known as the Los Angeles metropolitan area or the LA area) is a metropolitan area in Southern California, encompassing five counties: Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, Riverside County, and Ventura County. The area has a population of over 18.5 million people, making it the second-most populous metropolitan area in the United States, after the New York metropolitan area.
Greater Los Angeles is a major economic, cultural, and transportation hub in the United States. It is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies, including Walt Disney Company, The Walt Disney Studios, and Warner Bros. The area is also a major transportation hub, with Los Angeles International Airport being one of the busiest airports in the world.
Greater Los Angeles is a diverse and cosmopolitan area, with people from all over the world living and working there. The area is home to a number of universities, including the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), the University of Southern California (USC), and California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA). Greater Los Angeles is also a major cultural center, with a number of museums, theaters, and art galleries.
Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Greater Los Angeles include:
- Hollywood: This is the home of the American film industry and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
- The Walk of Fame: This is a sidewalk along Hollywood Boulevard that is home to over 2,500 stars, each of which honors a famous actor, actress, musician, or other celebrity.
- Universal Studios Hollywood: This theme park is home to a number of rides, shows, and attractions based on popular movies and television shows.
- Disneyland Resort: This resort is home to two theme parks, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, as well as a number of hotels, restaurants, and shops.
- Griffith Observatory: This observatory offers panoramic views of the Los Angeles area and is a popular spot for stargazing.
- Venice Beach: This beachfront area is known for its canals, boardwalk, and street performers.
- Santa Monica: This beachfront city is home to a number of popular attractions, including the Santa Monica Pier and the Third Street Promenade.
2. New York metropolitan area
Country: United States of America
Largest Cities: New York City, Allentown, Babylon, Basking Ridge, Bayonne, Bethlehem, Brick, Bridgeport, Bridgewater, Brookhaven, Clifton, Danbury, Denville, Edison, Elizabeth, Fort Lee, Freehold, Glen Cove, Hackensack, Hamilton, Hawthorne, Hempstead, Huntington, Islip, Jackson, Jersey City, Lakewood, Long Beach, Long Branch, Middletown, NJ, Middletown, Orange County, NY, Montclair, Morristown, Mount Vernon, Westchester County, New York, New Brunswick, New Haven, New Rochelle, Newark, Newburgh, Newtown, North Bergen, North Hempstead, Norwalk, Old Bridge, Oyster Bay, Paramus, Parsippany–Troy Hills, Paterson, Plainfield, Poughkeepsie, Princeton, Smithtown, Stamford, Toms River, Trenton, Union, Waterbury, Wayne, White Plains, Woodbridge, Yonkers
GDP
nominal: US$1.87 trillion
PPP: US$1.87 trillion
GDP per capita
nominal: US$95,321
PPP: US$95,321
Population: 19,617,869
Area: 45,069 km2 (17,405 sq mi)
The New York metropolitan area, also known as the Tri-State area, is a metropolitan area in the northeastern United States that is centered on the city of New York. It is the most populous metropolitan area in the United States, with over 19 million inhabitants. The area covers an area of 17,405 square miles (45,069 square kilometers), and includes the city of New York and its surrounding suburbs in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
The New York metropolitan area is a major economic, cultural, and transportation hub in the United States. It is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies, including JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, and Goldman Sachs. The area is also a major transportation hub, with John F. Kennedy International Airport being one of the busiest airports in the world.
The New York metropolitan area is a diverse and cosmopolitan area, with people from all over the world living and working there. The area is home to a number of universities, including Columbia University, New York University, and Cornell University. The New York metropolitan area is also a major cultural center, with a number of museums, theaters, and art galleries.
Some of the most popular tourist destinations in the New York metropolitan area include:
- Times Square: This iconic intersection is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world.
- The Empire State Building: This skyscraper is one of the most recognizable landmarks in New York City.
- The Statue of Liberty: This iconic statue is a symbol of freedom and democracy.
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art: This museum is home to a collection of over 2 million works of art, including the Mona Lisa and The Thinker.
- Central Park: This park is one of the most popular parks in the world and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
- The Brooklyn Bridge: This bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in New York City.
- The 9/11 Memorial and Museum: This memorial and museum is dedicated to the victims of the September 11 attacks.
1. Greater Tokyo Area
Country: Japan
Largest Cities: Tokyo, Yokohama, Kawasaki, Saitama, Chiba, Sagamihara
GDP
nominal: US$2.06 trillion
PPP: US$2.21 trillion
GDP per capita
nominal: US$50,614
PPP: US$54,300
Population: 40,700,000
Area: 13,452 km2 (5,194 sq mi)
The Greater Tokyo Area (also known as the Kanto region) is the most populous metropolitan area in the world, with over 40 million inhabitants. It is located in the Kantō region of Japan, on the Pacific coast of Honshu. The area includes the city of Tokyo, as well as the prefectures of Saitama, Chiba, Kanagawa, Ibaraki, Tochigi, and Gunma.
The Greater Tokyo Area is a major economic, cultural, and transportation hub in Japan. It is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies, including Toyota, Honda, and Sony. The area is also a major transportation hub, with Narita International Airport being one of the busiest airports in the world.
The Greater Tokyo Area is a diverse and cosmopolitan area, with people from all over the world living and working there. The area is home to a number of universities, including the University of Tokyo, the Tokyo Institute of Technology, and Keio University. The Greater Tokyo Area is also a major cultural center, with a number of museums, theaters, and art galleries.
Some of the most popular tourist destinations in the Greater Tokyo Area include:
- Shibuya Crossing: This is the busiest crosswalk in the world and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: This park is a popular spot for relaxation and recreation.
- Tokyo Tower: This tower offers panoramic views of Tokyo and is a popular tourist destination.
- The Imperial Palace: This is the home of the Emperor of Japan and is a popular tourist destination.
- Akihabara: This district is known for its electronics and anime shops.
- Harajuku: This district is known for its fashion and youth culture.
- Shinagawa: This district is home to the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan.
