Purpose <p>The microperforated panels (MPPs) display excellent capacity in noise control applications owing to the high strength, simple design, and efficacy in low-frequency sound absorption. Traditionally, the development of MPPs has relied on a trial-and-error design approach. Although optimization-based methods have recently begun to be employed, these designs often overlook practical considerations, such as increased costs associated with adding MPP layers, which presents a gap to achieve the practical feasibility of MPP deployment. To address this issue, the study aims to develop an inverse multi-objective optimization-empowered framework for MPP design to enhance low-frequency noise mitigation while minimizing fabrication costs.</p> Methods <p>Specifically, a finite element (FE) model is established to conduct the acoustic analysis of MPPs, followed by thorough experimental validation. A novel multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm (MOPSO) is then developed to cope with mixed-type design variables with interrelations inherent to the general MPP architecture. Using the high-fidelity FE model as a cornerstone, the MOPSO guides the inverse optimization analysis to yield multiple non-dominated solutions.</p> Results <p>These solutions not only avoid the trap of local optima, but also allow for continuous screening to ensure engineering viability based on empirical judgment. The results clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology.</p> Conclusions <p>The MPPs designed in this study show great potential for mitigating low-frequency noise in buildings with acceptable fabrication cost, addressing noise issues arising from rapid urbanization and transportation development in metropolitan areas. Furthermore, the novel optimization strategy proposed in this study holds wide applicability for other sound absorption materials.</p>