The bar chart compares the proportion of people living in urban areas worldwide and across six regions in 1975, 2020, and the projected figure for 2050.
Overall, urbanisation increased significantly in all regions over the period, and this trend is expected to continue. North America and Latin America recorded the highest urban populations throughout, while Africa and Asia consistently had the lowest figures, although both are projected to see substantial growth.
In 1975, only 38% of the global population lived in cities. This number rose to around 56% by 2020 and is forecast to reach 68% by 2050. North America had the largest urban share in all three years, rising from roughly 73% to 82%, with a further increase to 87% expected. Latin America followed a similar pattern, climbing from about 65% in 1975 to 81% in 2020, and projected to reach 86% by 2050.
By contrast, Africa and Asia started far lower, at around 25% and 24% respectively in 1975. However, both regions are expected to experience rapid growth, nearly doubling by 2050, with Africa reaching approximately 58% and Asia around 66%. Europe and Oceania also show steady, moderate increases over time.
In summary, urban populations have risen sharply worldwide and are expected to keep growing, with the most dramatic changes occurring in developing regions.