Cities in Iran: Major & Largest (Top 15 by Population)
Iran is home to more than 1,200 cities, from the largest cities in Iran such as Tehran, the capital of Iran, along with Mashhad, and Isfahan to historic and cultural centers like Shiraz, Yazd, and Tabriz. This guide explores the major cities of Iran, highlighting their population, history, and landmarks with a complete list of Iranian cities.
Largest Cities in Iran by Population (Table)
Below is the list of cities in Iran ranked by population(Top 15, city proper, 2016 census)
Rank | City | Population |
|---|---|---|
1 | Tehran | 8,693,700 |
2 | Mashhad | 3,001,200 |
3 | Isfahan | 1,961,300 |
4 | Karaj | 1,592,500 |
5 | Shiraz | 1,565,600 |
6 | Tabriz | 1,558,700 |
7 | Qom | 1,201,200 |
8 | Ahvaz | 1,184,800 |
9 | Kermanshah | 946,700 |
10 | Urmia | 736,200 |
11 | Rasht | 680,000 |
12 | Zahedan | 587,700 |
13 | Hamadan | 554,400 |
14 | Kerman | 537,700 |
15 | Yazd | 529,700 |
Tehran is by far the biggest city in Iran with over 8.6 million people, followed by Mashhad (3 million) and Isfahan (1.9 million). Cities like Yazd and Kerman, while smaller, are globally known for their UNESCO heritage and unique Persian architecture.
*Source: 2016 Iran Census(city proper)* via Data Commons; city names cross-checked with WorldPopulationReview.
Note: metro/urban estimates are higher(e.g., Tehran's metro is commonly cited well above the city-proper count). This table uses city-proper figures for consistency.
Interactive Map of Iran with Cities
Explore Iran's Major Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the largest city in Iran?
Tehran is the largest city in Iran, with a population of more than 8.6 million people (city proper), serving as the country's political, cultural, and economic hub.
What are the top five largest cities in Iran by population?
The top five are Tehran (8.7 million), Mashhad (3 million), Isfahan (1.9 million), Karaj (1.6 million), and Shiraz (1.6 million), based on the 2016 census.
How many cities are in Iran?
Iran has more than 1,200 cities across its provinces, each with its own unique history, culture, and traditions.
What are the most beautiful cities in Iran?
Isfahan, Shiraz, and Yazd are often considered the most beautiful cities in Iran, known for their blue-tiled mosques, gardens, poetry, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
What is the coldest city in Iran?
The coldest cities in Iran include Hamedan, Ardabil, Borujen, and Fariman, with Hamedan and Ardabil experiencing long winters with frequent snowfall and sub-freezing temperatures due to their elevation and proximity to mountain ranges.
What is the hottest city in Iran?
Ahvaz and Abadan in the Khuzestan region are the hottest cities in Iran, routinely experiencing summer highs over 50°C (122°F).
