Artificial Intelligence in Urban Planning: A Bibliometric Analysis and Hotspot Prediction

The accelerating global urbanization process has posed new challenges to urban planning. With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, the application of AI in urban planning has gradually emerged as a prominent research focus. This study systematically reviews the current state, development trends, and challenges of AI applications in urban planning through a combination of bibliometric analysis using Citespace, AI-assisted reading based on generative models, and predictive analysis via support vector machine (SVM) algorithms. The findings reveal the following: (1) The application of AI in urban planning has undergone three stages—namely, the budding stage (January 1984 to January 2017), the rapid development stage (January 2017 to January 2023), and the explosive growth stage (January 2023 to January 2025). (2) Research hotspots have shifted from early-stage basic data integration and fundamental technology exploration to a continuous fusion and iteration of foundational and emerging technologies. (3) Globally, China, the United States, and India are the leading contributors to research in this field, with inter-country collaborations demonstrating regional clustering. (4) High-frequency keywords such as “deep learning,” “machine learning,” and “smart city” are prevalent in the literature, reflecting the application of AI technologies across both macro and micro urban planning scenarios. (5) Based on current research and predictive analysis, the application scenarios of technologies like deep learning and machine learning are expected to continue expanding. At the same time, emerging technologies, including generative AI and explainable AI, are also projected to become focal points of future research. This study offers a technical application guide for urban planning, promotes the scientific integration of AI technologies within the field, and provides both theoretical support and practical guidance for achieving efficient and sustainable urban development.