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Ikiodiete George
- 3 Min Read
Top 10 Richest Cities In Africa For 2025: Economic Powerhouses Driving The Continent
Africa is home to some of the fastest-growing cities in the world — not just in population, but also in wealth creation. From oil-rich ports to tech-driven metropolises, certain African cities have become financial powerhouses that drive national and continental development.
In this guide, we break down the 10 richest cities in Africa as of 2025, based on GDP estimates, millionaire count, and key economic sectors fueling their growth.
Top 10 Richest Cities in Africa (2025)
|
Rank |
City |
Country |
Estimated GDP (USD) |
Millionaire Count |
Main Economic Sectors |
|
1 |
Johannesburg |
South Africa |
$135 Billion |
12,300+ |
Finance, mining, real estate, manufacturing |
|
2 |
Cairo |
Egypt |
$119 Billion |
7,200+ |
Trade, banking, construction, tourism |
|
3 |
Cape Town |
South Africa |
$92 Billion |
7,400+ |
Tourism, finance, IT, property |
|
4 |
Nairobi |
Kenya |
$79 Billion |
4,400+ |
Fintech, real estate, logistics |
|
5 |
Lagos |
Nigeria |
$30 Billion |
4,200+ |
Oil & gas, finance, technology, entertainment |
|
6 |
Durban / Umhlanga |
South Africa |
$40 Billion |
3,600+ |
Ports, trade, tourism |
|
7 |
Pretoria |
South Africa |
$76 Billion |
Data not available |
Government, manufacturing, public administration |
|
8 |
Casablanca |
Morocco |
$52 Billion |
2,800+ |
Banking, shipping, construction |
|
9 |
Abuja |
Nigeria |
$26 Billion (est.) |
Data not available |
Public sector, real estate, telecoms |
|
10 |
Accra |
Ghana |
$34 Billion |
Data not available |
Oil & gas, banking, agriculture |
1. Johannesburg, South Africa
Often dubbed the "New York of Africa," Johannesburg is the continent's financial capital. With its vibrant stock exchange and a high concentration of businesses and banks, it tops the list with the most millionaires and highest metropolitan GDP.
2. Cairo, Egypt
Cairo is not just Egypt’s political capital but also its economic engine. The city thrives on a diverse range of industries, from real estate to tourism, making it a top contender in North Africa.
3. Cape Town, South Africa
A coastal gem and tech hub, Cape Town is rich in tourism, financial services, and tech startups. Its high quality of life also attracts foreign investors and expats.
4. Nairobi, Kenya
Known as the “Silicon Savannah,” Nairobi is East Africa’s tech and startup capital. It’s home to numerous regional headquarters, banks, and logistics firms.
5. Lagos, Nigeria
Lagos is Nigeria’s economic nerve center and Africa’s largest city by population. Its influence spans banking, tech, media, and the creative industry.
6. Durban/Umhlanga, South Africa
A key port city, Durban supports South Africa’s trade and logistics sectors. The upscale Umhlanga area is home to many of the country’s wealthy elites.
7. Pretoria, South Africa
While it's the administrative capital of South Africa, Pretoria also boasts a strong industrial base and growing business services sector.
8. Casablanca, Morocco
Casablanca is Morocco’s business capital, known for its modern infrastructure and booming real estate, finance, and industrial sectors.
9. Abuja, Nigeria
Abuja is Nigeria’s political and administrative capital. Its wealth comes from the public sector, construction, and a growing tech scene.
10. Accra, Ghana
Accra continues to rise with its oil production, stable governance, and expanding financial services sector, making it a growing hotspot for investors.
Why These Cities Are Leading
|
Factor |
Impact on Wealth |
|
High foreign investments |
Boost infrastructure, real estate, and finance |
|
Strong local industries |
Oil, banking, and tech fuel consistent growth |
|
Political stability |
Encourages both local and international business |
|
Millionaire concentration |
Drives real estate, luxury, and finance sectors |
FAQs on Africa’s Richest Cities
|
Question |
Answer |
|
Which is the richest city in Africa? |
Johannesburg, South Africa |
|
Is Lagos the richest city in Africa? |
No, but it's among the top five due to its influence and size |
|
What makes a city wealthy? |
High GDP, strong industries, millionaire population |
|
Which African city has the most millionaires? |
Johannesburg, with over 12,000 millionaires |
|
Is Cairo richer than Cape Town? |
Yes, based on GDP estimates |
Conclusion
Africa’s richest cities are not just centers of wealth — they are trendsetters shaping the continent’s economic future. With diversified economies, high-net-worth individuals, and innovative industries, these urban centers are magnets for investment, development, and opportunity.
Whether you’re looking to invest, relocate, or just stay informed, these cities are the ones to watch in 2025 and beyond.
