Top 10 Largest Cities in North America in 2026 by Population

Larry Mimosa January 05, 2026 | 21:40

Based on the latest Visual Capitalist population rankings and updated demographic estimates for 2025–2026, this article presents a refined and data-driven look at the Top 10 Largest Cities in North America, ranked by city-proper population.

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North America is home to some of the world’s most influential cities. From global financial hubs to fast-growing Latin American megacities, the continent’s largest urban centers shape economic trends, migration flows, and cultural influence far beyond their borders.

More than just numbers, these cities reflect how urban growth, opportunity, and power are distributed across the continent.

1. Mexico City — ~17.7 Million

Mexico City stands firmly at number one, making it the largest city in North America by a wide margin. As the political, economic, and cultural heart of Mexico, the city combines centuries of history with modern megacity scale.

Its massive population is fueled by domestic migration, economic centralization, and a diversified economy spanning finance, manufacturing, media, and tourism. While infrastructure strain and air quality remain challenges, Mexico City’s influence across Latin America continues to expand.

2. New York City — ~13.9 Million

New York City remains the most populous city in the United States and one of the most globally connected urban centers on Earth. As a financial, cultural, and media capital, NYC plays a unique role in shaping global markets, trends, and narratives.

Despite slower population growth compared to Sun Belt cities, New York’s density, diversity, and economic gravity keep it firmly near the top of North America’s urban hierarchy.

3. Los Angeles — ~12.7 Million

Los Angeles ranks third, reflecting its vast urban footprint and global cultural reach. Home to Hollywood, major ports, and a rapidly expanding tech scene, LA’s influence extends far beyond the United States.

Its growth has been moderated by housing costs and congestion, yet Los Angeles remains a magnet for talent, creativity, and international trade.

4. Toronto — ~5.5 Million

Toronto is Canada’s largest city and fastest-growing major urban center. Fueled largely by immigration, it has become one of the most multicultural cities in the world.

As Canada’s financial capital, Toronto plays a central role in banking, technology, education, and real estate, positioning it as a key North American city for the next decade.

5. Santo Domingo — ~4.6 Million

Santo Domingo’s place in the top five highlights the rising demographic importance of the Caribbean. As the Dominican Republic’s capital, it has experienced rapid population growth driven by urbanization, tourism, and economic diversification.

Its inclusion underscores that North America’s urban future is not defined by the U.S. and Canada alone.

6. Guadalajara — ~4.1 Million

Often described as Mexico’s cultural capital, Guadalajara blends tradition with innovation. In recent years, it has emerged as a regional tech hub, earning the nickname “Mexico’s Silicon Valley.”

The city’s youthful population and expanding startup ecosystem continue to attract investment and talent.

7. Houston — ~4.0 Million

Houston is the largest city in Texas and one of the most economically resilient cities in the United States. Known globally for energy, healthcare, and aerospace, it also stands out for its relative housing affordability.

This combination continues to draw new residents from across the country and abroad.

8. Monterrey — ~3.9 Million

Monterrey is Mexico’s industrial powerhouse. Strategically located near the U.S. border, it benefits from strong manufacturing, logistics, and trade connections.

Its business-friendly environment and high productivity make it one of Latin America’s most competitive urban economies.

9. Chicago — ~3.7 Million

Chicago remains a cornerstone of the U.S. Midwest. With strengths in finance, transportation, manufacturing, and higher education, it continues to function as a critical national and continental hub.

Its central location reinforces its role as a logistical and commercial gateway.

10. Washington, D.C. — ~3.3 Million

Rounding out the top ten, Washington, D.C. is unique for its political significance. As the capital of the United States, its influence extends through governance, diplomacy, and global policy-making.

Population growth here is closely tied to federal employment, international institutions, and surrounding metropolitan expansion.