Livelihood refers to the means and activities through which individuals or households secure the necessities of life, including food, water, shelter, clothing, health, and education. It encompasses not just economic activities but also the social, cultural, and environmental resources that people use to sustain themselves and improve their quality of life. Livelihoods are shaped by the interaction of various factors such as the natural environment, human capabilities, economic opportunities, social institutions, and policies that govern access to resources. In the context of sustainable development and smart cities, livelihoods are particularly significant because they reflect how urban and rural populations adapt to changing economic, technological, and environmental conditions while striving for resilience, inclusivity, and sustainability. The concept of livelihood emphasizes that people’s well-being is determined not only by income but also by access to assets, security, and the ability to respond to risks and shocks. A livelihood profile is a comprehensive assessment or analysis of the means of living of a community or household, capturing the diversity of income sources, assets, skills, and social networks that individuals utilize to maintain their standard of living. It serves as a diagnostic tool to understand the strategies people employ to sustain themselves, the vulnerabilities they face, and the opportunities available to improve their quality of life. Livelihood profiles help planners, policymakers, and development practitioners design interventions that are responsive to local needs, sustainable in the long term, and inclusive of marginalized groups. In the context of smart cities, livelihood profiles can guide urban planners to integrate technology-driven solutions, sustainable infrastructure, and equitable economic opportunities that enhance the resilience and well-being of urban populations. These profiles typically combine quantitative data, such as income levels and employment rates, with qualitative information, such as social relationships, coping strategies, and cultural practices, providing a holistic understanding of how people live and work. Components of a livelihood are the essential elements or assets that individuals and households draw upon to sustain themselves. These components are commonly classified into five categories: human capital, social capital, physical capital, financial capital, and natural capital. Human capital includes the skills, knowledge, health, and labor available to people, which enable them to engage in productive activities. In smart cities, human capital is enhanced through access to education, vocational training, and technology literacy programs, empowering citizens to participate effectively in the modern economy. Social capital refers to the networks, relationships, and social institutions that provide support, information, and access to resources. Strong social capital can facilitate employment opportunities, cooperative ventures, and community resilience, especially in the face of urban challenges