Urban livelihood concerns are central to the process of sustainable development and the creation of smart cities. The urban environment offers diverse economic opportunities, yet it is also marked by high levels of inequality, insecurity, and environmental stress. As cities continue to grow, especially in developing countries, the ability of urban residents to secure sustainable livelihoods becomes a crucial determinant of social stability, economic progress, and ecological balance. Livelihood concerns in cities go beyond income generation; they encompass access to decent work, basic services, housing, safety, and social inclusion, all of which form the foundation for achieving sustainable urban futures. Urban livelihood concerns arise primarily due to rapid urbanization, inadequate planning, and the structural transformation of economies. One of the most pressing issues is the high level of informal employment. A large proportion of urban dwellers in developing countries depend on informal jobs such as street vending, waste picking, construction work, domestic labor, and small-scale manufacturing. These forms of employment are often insecure, poorly paid, and lack legal protection or social benefits. Informal workers are vulnerable to eviction, exploitation, and harassment, especially when city authorities prioritize beautification and smart infrastructure over inclusive growth. The absence of labor rights, social security, and occupational safety further exacerbates their vulnerability. Another significant concern is the lack of affordable housing and the proliferation of slums. Millions of urban residents live in informal settlements that lack adequate sanitation, clean water, and secure tenure. Such conditions limit their ability to pursue sustainable livelihoods because they spend excessive time and money on basic needs and are constantly at risk of displacement due to development projects or rising land values. In smart cities, where digitalization and infrastructural modernization are emphasized, low-income communities often face exclusion from new opportunities, deepening the socio-economic divide. The challenge, therefore, is to ensure that the transition toward smart urban systems does not marginalize the poor but rather enhances their access to resources and markets. Access to essential services such as education, health care, transportation, and digital connectivity also influences urban livelihoods. Many low-income groups cannot afford quality education or vocational training, which restricts their access to skilled jobs. Moreover, public transportation systems are often inefficient or unaffordable for daily commuters, leading to time loss and economic inefficiency. Health issues related to pollution, overcrowding, and poor sanitation further reduce productivity and increase vulnerability. The digital divide adds another layer of inequality: as smart cities increasingly rely on technology for service delivery, those without digital literacy or access to the internet risk being excluded from employment and public services. Environmental degradation and climate change have emerged as serious threats to sustainable urban livelihoods. Unchecked industrialization, vehicular emissions, and construction activities contribute to air and water pollution, directly affecting the health and productivity of urban populations. Climate-induced disasters such as floods,