The United States is known for having some of the largest cities in the world. With its diverse population and booming economy, it is no surprise that these cities continue to grow in size and population. However, many people are curious as to which city in the US has the largest area. In this article, we will explore the top 10 largest US cities by area, how city area is measured, the largest city by land area, which state has the largest city by area, how city size affects population, advantages and disadvantages of large cities, the fastest-growing US cities by area, the smallest US city by area, comparing US city areas to other countries, and finally, a conclusion on US cities with the largest area and future trends in city size and population.
Top 10 Largest US Cities by Area
According to the United States Census Bureau, the top 10 largest US cities by area in square miles are as follows:
- Sitka, Alaska – 4,811.4 square miles
- Juneau, Alaska – 3,255.6 square miles
- Wrangell, Alaska – 2,541.5 square miles
- Anchorage, Alaska – 1,704.7 square miles
- Jacksonville, Florida – 747.0 square miles
- Anaconda-Deer Lodge County, Montana – 736.5 square miles
- Butte-Silver Bow, Montana – 716.8 square miles
- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – 606.4 square miles
- Houston, Texas – 599.6 square miles
- Phoenix, Arizona – 517.6 square miles
It is interesting to note that 7 out of the top 10 largest US cities by area are located in Alaska, which is the largest state in the US by area.
How is City Area Measured?
City area is generally measured in square miles or square kilometers. It is calculated by drawing a boundary around the city limits and measuring the area within that boundary. This boundary is usually determined by the city government and can include everything from urbanized areas to parks and forests. In some cases, this boundary may also include nearby suburbs or towns that are considered part of the same metropolitan area.
Largest City by Land Area
The largest city by land area in the US is Sitka, Alaska, with a total area of 4,811.4 square miles. Sitka is located on Baranof Island in the Alexander Archipelago of the Pacific Ocean. The city is known for its beautiful scenery, rich history, and outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking.
Which State Has the Largest City by Area?
As previously mentioned, Alaska has the largest city by area in the US with Sitka. However, if we look at non-Alaskan cities, the state with the largest city by area is Montana, with Anaconda-Deer Lodge County at 736.5 square miles. Montana is known for its beautiful landscapes, national parks, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
How Does City Size Affect Population?
Generally, larger cities tend to have larger populations than smaller cities. This is because larger cities have more job opportunities, more diverse cultures, and more amenities than smaller cities. However, this can also lead to overcrowding, traffic congestion, and other negative effects.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Large Cities
There are both advantages and disadvantages to living in a large city. Advantages include access to better job opportunities, more diverse cultures, and more amenities. Disadvantages can include higher cost of living, overcrowding, traffic congestion, and higher crime rates.
What Are the Fastest-Growing US Cities by Area?
The fastest-growing US cities by area are generally those that are experiencing high rates of population growth due to factors such as job opportunities, affordable housing, and good weather. Some of the fastest-growing US cities by area include Phoenix, Arizona, Houston, Texas, and Los Angeles, California.
What Is the Smallest US City by Area?
The smallest US city by area is Amagon, Arkansas, with a total area of just 0.2 square miles. Amagon is located in Jackson County, Arkansas, and has a population of around 100 people.
Comparing US City Areas to Other Countries
Compared to other countries, the US has some of the largest cities by area in the world. However, there are countries such as Canada, Russia, and China that have larger cities by area than even the largest US cities.
Conclusion: US Cities with the Largest Area
In conclusion, the US has some of the largest cities in the world, with Alaska being home to some of the largest in the country. City area is generally measured in square miles or square kilometers, with the largest city by land area in the US being Sitka, Alaska. While larger cities tend to have larger populations and more amenities, they also come with their own set of disadvantages. Some of the fastest-growing US cities by area include Phoenix, Arizona, Houston, Texas, and Los Angeles, California. Finally, while the US has some of the largest cities in the world, there are countries such as Canada, Russia, and China that have larger cities by area than even the largest US cities.
Future Trends in City Size and Population
As urbanization continues to be a global trend, it is likely that the size and population of cities will continue to grow. This growth may be fueled by factors such as job opportunities, affordable housing, and good weather. However, it will be important for city governments to manage this growth in a sustainable and equitable manner, to ensure that all residents have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
