U.K.: Largest Cities, by population
CityEstimated population
London9,648,110
Manchester2,791,005
Birmingham2,665,100
Leeds / Bradford1,928,661
Glasgow1,698,088
Southampton / Portsmouth951,531
Liverpool917,032
Newcastle upon Tyne823,431
Nottingham806,757
Sheffield745,876
Bristol707,412
Belfast643,005
Brighton622,480
Leicester566,282
Edinburgh553,569
Bournemouth518,556
Cardiff488,153
Coventry444,547
Middlesbrough392,813
Stoke-on-Trent391,927
  • Region: United Kingdom
  • Time period: 2019
  • Published: Aug 2019

Data Analysis and Insights

Updated: Mar 28, 2024 | Published by: Statistico | About Us | Data sources

London's Dominance

London's estimated population of 9,648,110 makes it the most populous city in the UK, significantly outpacing the second-ranked Manchester, which has an estimated population of 2,791,005. This gap highlights London's central role in the UK's urban landscape and its disproportionate size compared to other cities.

Northern Cities' Prominence

Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds / Bradford collectively contribute to the North's urban density with populations exceeding 2 million for Manchester and Birmingham and nearly 2 million for Leeds / Bradford. Their significant populations underline the North of England's importance in the UK's overall urban population distribution.

Glasgow as Scotland's Largest City

Glasgow stands out as the largest city in Scotland with an estimated population of 1,698,088. It surpasses Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, which has a population of 553,569, demonstrating Glasgow's leading position in Scottish urban areas.

Coastal Cities' Population

Southampton / Portsmouth and Brighton, with populations of 951,531 and 622,480 respectively, are notable for being the most populous coastal cities in the UK. Their significant populations reflect the importance of coastal locations in the UK's urban hierarchy.

Variety in City Sizes

The range in city sizes is vast, with the smallest city in the top 20, Stoke-on-Trent, having an estimated population of 391,927, compared to London's 9,648,110. This diversity indicates a wide variance in urban scale and density across the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the population of the most populous city in the UK?

London is the most populous city in the UK with an estimated population of 9,648,110.

Which cities contribute to the North of England's urban density?

Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds / Bradford, all with populations exceeding 2 million, contribute to the North of England's urban density.

Which is the largest city in Scotland?

Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland, with a population of approximately 1,698,088.

What is the population range among the top 20 cities in the UK?

Among the top 20 cities in the UK, the population ranges from Stoke-on-Trent’s 391,927 to London's 9,648,110.

Terms and Definitions

An urban area that has been granted city status, often associated with certain ceremonial rights. Cities typically have extensive systems for housing, transportation, commerce, and recreation.

The total number of people living in a specific area, such as a city or country. Population is a key factor when ranking the size of cities.

A region consisting of a densely populated urban core and its closely surrounding territories, sharing industry, infrastructure, and housing. A metropolitan area includes one or more cities and may include towns, suburbs and villages.

A designation given by a government (in this case the UK) that often includes certain powers or rights not given to other areas. The status is usually given to areas with a large population or historical significance.

Relating to a town or city. An urban area is characterized by higher population density and vast human structures in comparison to areas surrounding it.
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