The United States is a vast country with a diverse range of cities, each with its own unique character and charm. From bustling metropolises to small towns with a rich history, there are countless cities to explore across the country.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: There are over 19,000 cities, towns, and villages in the United States.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the number of cities in the US and explore some interesting facts about them.
What is a City?
Defining a city can be a tricky task, as there is no one-size-fits-all definition. Generally speaking, a city is a large and densely populated urban area that has a distinct identity and character. Cities are often centers of commerce, culture, and government, and are home to a variety of institutions and landmarks.
There are a number of criteria that are typically used to define a city. One of the most common is population size – in the United States, a place must have a population of at least 2,500 in order to be considered a city. However, there are other factors that can also contribute to a place being classified as a city, such as economic activity, land use patterns, and political organization.
In addition to population size, another important factor is the degree of urbanization. Cities are typically more densely populated than rural areas, and have a higher concentration of buildings and infrastructure. They may also have more diverse economic and social structures, and offer a wider range of services and amenities.
There are many different types of cities in the United States, each with its own unique characteristics and functions. Some cities are primarily centers of industry or commerce, while others are known for their cultural institutions or natural attractions. Some cities are large and sprawling, while others are more compact and walkable.
One way to classify cities is by their size. In the United States, cities are typically categorized as small, medium, or large based on their population. Small cities have populations between 25,000 and 100,000, medium cities have populations between 100,000 and 500,000, and large cities have populations over 500,000.
Another way to classify cities is by their function. For example, some cities are known for their universities and research institutions, while others are centers of finance or government. Still others are tourist destinations, with attractions such as theme parks, museums, and historical sites.
Regardless of their size or function, cities play an important role in American society and culture. They are places of innovation, creativity, and diversity, and offer countless opportunities for learning, growth, and exploration.
How Many Cities are in the US?
Counting the exact number of cities in the US can be tricky as different states have different definitions for what constitutes a city. However, according to the United States Census Bureau, there are over 19,000 municipal governments in the US, which includes cities, towns, and villages.
Largest Cities in the US
The US is home to some of the world’s largest cities in terms of population. According to the World Population Review, the top five largest cities in the US are:
- New York City, NY – population of over 8.3 million
- Los Angeles, CA – population of over 3.9 million
- Chicago, IL – population of over 2.7 million
- Houston, TX – population of over 2.3 million
- Phoenix, AZ – population of over 1.7 million
These cities are known for their diverse cultures, bustling city life, and iconic landmarks.
Smallest Cities in the US
On the other hand, there are also many small cities in the US that have a population of less than 1,000 people. According to the United States Census Bureau, the smallest city in the US is Monowi, Nebraska, with a population of just one person. Other small cities with populations under 1,000 include:
| City | State | Population |
|---|---|---|
| Bearcreek | Montana | 79 |
| Central City | Colorado | 663 |
| Maza | Minnesota | 4 |
Despite their small size, these cities have their own unique charm and character. They often have tight-knit communities and are known for their friendly atmosphere.
Did you know?
The state with the most number of cities in the US is Texas, with over 1,200 municipalities.
For more information on US cities, you can visit the United States Census Bureau website.
Interesting Facts About US Cities
- Oldest US City: The oldest city in the US is St. Augustine, Florida, founded by the Spanish in 1565. It is also the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the continental United States.
- Newest US City: The newest city in the US is Jurupa Valley, California, which was incorporated in 2011. It is located in Riverside County, California.
- Most Populated US City: The most populated city in the US is New York City, with an estimated population of over 8.3 million people. It is also one of the most densely populated cities in the world.
- Least Populated US City: The least populated city in the US is Buford, Wyoming, with a population of only one person. The town was sold in 2012 for $900,000 to a Vietnamese buyer.
- US City with the Most Skyscrapers: The US city with the most skyscrapers is New York City, with over 6,000 high-rise buildings. The city is home to iconic buildings such as the Empire State Building and the One World Trade Center.
These interesting facts show the diversity and uniqueness of cities in the United States. While some cities have a long and rich history, others are relatively new. Some cities are crowded and bustling with activity, while others are small and remote. No matter what their size or age, each city has its own story to tell and its own unique character that sets it apart from the rest.
If you want to learn more about US cities, check out U.S. Census Bureau for population data and National Park Service for information on historic cities like St. Augustine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the United States is home to a vast number of cities, each with its own unique features and attractions. Whether you’re looking for a bustling metropolis or a quiet town with a rich history, there’s a city in the US that’s sure to appeal to you.
We hope this article has given you a better understanding of the number of cities in the US and some interesting facts about them. So why not plan a trip to one of these cities and experience all it has to offer for yourself?
