What is the tiniest city in the United States?

the Tiniest City in the US

The United States is home to many large cities with bustling populations, but did you know that it also has some of the tiniest cities in the world? These small cities may not have all the amenities and attractions of their larger counterparts, but they have a unique charm and character all their own. In this article, we will explore the tiniest city in the United States and learn more about the history, economy, and daily life of its residents.

What is a City and How is it Defined?

Before we delve into the tiniest city in the US, it is important to understand what constitutes a city and how it is defined. There is no universal definition of a city, and different countries and regions have their own criteria for what constitutes a city. Generally, a city is a large human settlement with a high population density, which serves as an economic, cultural, and political hub for the surrounding area.

Criteria for Being a City in the United States

In the United States, a city is typically defined as a municipality with a population of at least 2,500 residents. This definition was established by the Census Bureau in 1950 and has been used ever since. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as in the state of Virginia, where a city can have a population as small as 1,000 residents.

The Smallest City in the US by Population

The tiniest city in the United States by population is Monowi, Nebraska. As of the 2020 Census, Monowi had a population of just one person – making it the only incorporated municipality in the United States with a population of one. The sole resident of Monowi is Elsie Eiler, who serves as the mayor, bartender, and librarian of the city.

Where is the Smallest City Located?

Monowi is located in the northeastern part of Nebraska, near the border with South Dakota. It covers an area of just 0.2 square miles (0.5 square kilometers) and is situated along Highway 12, which runs through the center of the city.

History of the Tiniest City in the US

Monowi was founded in 1902 as a small railroad town, and at its peak in the 1930s, it had a population of over 150 residents. However, like many small towns in rural America, Monowi experienced a decline in population as people moved away in search of better opportunities. By the 2000s, the town had dwindled to just a handful of residents, and in 2004, it officially became a city with a population of one.

Economy and Infrastructure in the Smallest City

Monowi’s economy is largely based on the town’s only business – the Monowi Tavern. The tavern serves as the hub of the community, where residents gather to socialize and catch up on the latest news and gossip. In addition to the tavern, Monowi also has a small library, which is housed in the same building as the tavern.

Landmarks and Attractions in the Tiniest City

Monowi may be a small town, but it is not without its charm and attractions. The town’s most famous landmark is the Monowi Tavern, which has been featured in numerous news articles and documentaries. The tavern serves as a living museum of sorts, showcasing the history and culture of small-town America.

Life in the Smallest City in the US

Life in Monowi is certainly unique, with just one person living in the entire city. Elsie Eiler, the city’s sole resident, takes care of most of the city’s day-to-day operations, including maintaining the library, serving drinks at the tavern, and paying the city’s bills. Despite the isolation, Eiler says she enjoys living in Monowi and has no plans to leave anytime soon.

Challenges of Living in a Tiny City

Living in a small town like Monowi certainly has its challenges. The lack of amenities and services can be a drawback, and residents may have to travel long distances to access basic necessities like groceries and healthcare. Additionally, the isolation and lack of social opportunities can make it difficult to meet new people and form meaningful connections.

Conclusion: Why the Tiniest City is Worth Knowing

While Monowi may be the tiniest city in the United States, it is a fascinating example of small-town life and the resilience of rural communities. Despite the challenges of living in a tiny city, the residents of Monowi have found a way to make it work and maintain their community’s unique culture and history. Whether you’re a fan of small towns or just curious about life in the tiniest city in the US, Monowi is certainly worth knowing about.

References and Further Reading

Monowi, Nebraska: The Town with a Population of One. (2021). Roadside America. Retrieved from https://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/2225
One-Person Town in Nebraska Serves as a Reminder of the Importance of Rural America. (2021). CBS News. Retrieved from https://www.cbsnews.com/news/monowi-nebraska-one-person-town/