Smallest Cities in Malawi

Top 33 cities ranked by smallest cities

Largest Cities Smallest Cities Most Dense Least Dense Highest Income Lowest Income Lowest Unemployment Highest Unemployment Lowest Poverty Highest Poverty Highest Rent Lowest Rent Most Educated Youngest Cities Oldest Cities Safest Cities Highest Crime Warmest Cities Coldest Cities Rainiest Cities Driest Cities

All Countries · Malawi

Smallest Cities — Malawi

1 Livingstonia N 5,552

2 Chikwawa S 6,987

3 Phalombe S 7,040

4 Chipoka C 7,212

5 Ntchisi C 7,918

6 Ngabu S 7,931

7 Dowa C 8,047

8 Thyolo S 8,845

9 Chipeni C 10,553

10 Luchenza S 14,211

11 Nkhata Bay N 16,099

12 Mulanje S 16,672

13 Monkey Bay S 16,867

14 Chitipa N 20,011

15 Mwanza S 20,345

16 Ntcheu C 23,956

17 Rumphi N 25,216

18 Mponela C 27,681

19 Mzimba N 29,432

20 Nsanje S 30,276

21 Mchinji C 31,592

22 Nkhotakota C 31,974

23 Dedza C 34,882

24 Balaka S 40,950

25 Liwonde S 41,077

26 Salima C 41,492

27 Mangochi S 60,338

28 Kasungu C 66,152

29 Karonga N 69,486

30 Zomba S 118,440

31 Mzuzu N 249,564

32 Blantyre S 902,588

33 Lilongwe C 1,115,815

The smallest cities in Malawi (with populations above 5,000) offer a different quality of life compared to major metropolitan areas. Livingstonia has a population of just 5,552. These communities often feature lower costs of living, stronger neighborhood connections, and less congestion.

Small cities can offer significant advantages for residents seeking affordable housing, shorter commutes, and a close-knit community feel. Many serve as regional centers for surrounding rural areas, providing essential services while maintaining a small-town atmosphere.

Despite their smaller size, many of these cities have thriving local economies, good school systems, and access to outdoor recreation. They represent an alternative to the fast-paced lifestyle of major metropolitan areas.

Did You Know?

1. At 5,552 residents, Livingstonia is smaller than a single large apartment complex in New York City.
2. Small cities (5,000-10,000) make up the majority of incorporated places in the United States.
3. Many of the smallest cities serve as county seats or regional service centers for surrounding rural communities.

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