What is the population of Lahore?
Lahore's metropolitan area has about 13,979,000 people, making it the 20th largest metro area in our dataset of 140 major cities.
In Pakistan · Also known as Heart of Pakistan, Paris of the East, City of Gardens, Cultural Capital
Metro population
13,979,000
0.168% of world population
Archive estimateAnnual growth
+2.42%
About 927 people a day
Archive estimateDensity
7,888/km²
1,772 km² metro area
City proper
13,004,135
Within the administrative boundary
GeoNamesAbout Lahore
Lahore is Pakistan's second-largest city and the cultural capital of Punjab, with a metropolitan population approaching 14 million. Known as the 'Heart of Pakistan,' Lahore is celebrated for its Mughal heritage, vibrant arts scene, cuisine, and the warmth of its people.
Key Facts
Airports
Scheduled-service airports within 100 km, nearest first.
- Allama Iqbal International AirportLHE
6 km from the city centre
Source: OurAirports, matched by distance.
History
Lahore's history spans over a millennium, with mentions in Hindu epics. The city flourished under the Mughals (1524-1752), who built many of its famous monuments. The Sikhs ruled briefly before British colonization. Lahore was central to the Pakistan movement and barely escaped partition violence in 1947.
Economy
Lahore is Punjab's economic hub with major industries including textiles, manufacturing, IT, and services. The city hosts Pakistan's largest software technology parks. Trading and commerce are deeply rooted. The informal sector is significant. Gulberg and DHA are commercial centers.
Culture
Lahore is Pakistan's cultural capital. Festivals like Basant (now restricted) and Eid are celebrated grandly. The food scene is legendary—nihari, paye, and Lahori cuisine are famous. The Walled City preserves Mughal-era life. Music, poetry, and arts thrive. Lahore is known for its literary festivals and theater tradition.
Transportation
Lahore has Pakistan's first metro (Orange Line opened 2020). Buses, rickshaws, and taxis serve the city. The Ring Road and motorways connect to other cities. Allama Iqbal International Airport handles domestic and international flights. Traffic congestion is severe.
Current Challenges
Lahore faces severe air pollution (often world's worst), traffic congestion, water quality issues, inadequate infrastructure, and urban sprawl. Heritage sites face conservation challenges. The smog season (October-February) is debilitating. Economic inequality and informal settlements are significant concerns.
Highlights
Landmarks & Attractions
- Badshahi Mosque
- Lahore Fort (UNESCO)
- Shalimar Gardens (UNESCO)
- Minar-e-Pakistan
- Anarkali Bazaar
- Data Darbar shrine
- Walled City
- Liberty Market
What Lahore Is Known For
- Mughal heritage
- Food
- Culture
- Hospitality
- Gardens
Universities
- Punjab University
- LUMS
- UET Lahore
- GCU
Sports Teams
- Lahore Qalandars (cricket)
- Lahore City FC
Interesting Facts
- Lahore's Badshahi Mosque was the world's largest mosque for 313 years
- The city is called 'Paris of the East' for its gardens and culture
- Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens are UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Lahori hospitality is legendary—guests are treated royally
- The Walled City has 13 historic gates
Compared with the World's Largest Cities
Metropolitan population against the fifteen largest metro areas.
| Name | Metro population |
|---|---|
| Tokyo | 37.4M |
| Delhi | 32.9M |
| Shanghai | 29.2M |
| São Paulo | 22.6M |
| Dhaka | 22.5M |
| Mexico City | 22.3M |
| Cairo | 22.2M |
| Mumbai | 21.7M |
| Beijing | 21.5M |
| Osaka | 19M |
| New York | 18.9M |
| Karachi | 17.1M |
| Kinshasa | 17.1M |
| Chongqing | 16.9M |
| Lagos | 15.9M |
| Lahore | 14M |
Population Trend in Pakistan
No free source publishes metropolitan population back to 1950, so the parent country's series is shown instead.
| Year | Population |
|---|---|
| 1950 | 35,849,260 |
| 1960 | 45,709,310 |
| 1970 | 60,166,719 |
| 1980 | 82,291,010 |
| 1990 | 116,155,576 |
| 2000 | 154,879,127 |
| 2010 | 199,239,047 |
| 2020 | 235,001,746 |
| 2030 | 276,883,255 |
| 2040 | 324,937,697 |
| 2050 | 371,863,793 |
| 2060 | 414,441,120 |
| 2070 | 451,260,265 |
| 2080 | 479,745,112 |
| 2090 | 499,173,314 |
| 2100 | 511,000,618 |
Other Major Cities in Pakistan
1 more city in our dataset.
- Karachi17.1M · +2.27%
Nearest Major Cities
Closest cities in our dataset by great-circle distance.
Lahore Population FAQ
What is the difference between Lahore's city and metro population?
About 13,004,135 people live within the city proper, while the wider metropolitan area holds roughly 13,979,000. Metro figures include surrounding commuter areas that fall outside the city's administrative boundary.
Is Lahore growing or shrinking?
Lahore is growing at +2.42% a year.
What share of Pakistan's population lives in Lahore?
Lahore's metro area holds about 5.5% of Pakistan's total population.
How densely populated is Lahore?
Lahore has roughly 7,888 people per km² across a metro area of about 1,772 km².
Which airports serve Lahore?
The nearest major airports are Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE).
Which country is Lahore in?
Lahore is in Pakistan, in Asia.
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- #5 DhakaBangladesh · 22.5M · +2.89%
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