Smallest Cities in Sabah

Top 28 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 · Malaysia · Sabah

Smallest Cities — Sabah

1 Tenom 5,148

2 Bongawan 5,594

3 Bandau 8,716

4 Taman Rajawali 10,000

5 Kinabatangan 10,256

6 Kampung Kundassang 11,251

7 Kobang 11,682

8 Kota Belud 12,825

9 Kampung Kunak 13,823

10 Kinarut 15,716

11 Beaufort 15,855

12 Papar 19,278

13 Ranau 19,294

14 Kuala Penyu 24,200

15 Tambunan 29,294

16 Bandar Nabawan 31,807

17 Kudat 32,393

18 Petagas 35,844

19 Sipitang 39,300

20 Bandar Labuan 54,752

21 Semporna 62,641

22 Keningau 77,650

23 Donggongon 78,086

24 Putatan 78,340

25 Lahad Datu 105,622

26 Tawau 372,615

27 Sandakan 439,050

28 Kota Kinabalu 500,421

The smallest cities in Sabah (with populations above 5,000) offer a different quality of life compared to major metropolitan areas. Tenom has a population of just 5,148. 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 5,148 residents, Tenom 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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