The Largest Cities in The United States

From towering skylines to sprawling metropolitan neighborhoods, the largest cities in the United States are hubs of culture, commerce, and population density. These cities are not just big in size; they are major economic engines, innovation centers, and cultural beacons. But which urban giants truly top the list?

Here is a closer look at seven of the largest cities in the US based on population, with insights into what makes each one unique.

New York City, New York

• Population: Over 8.3 million
• Metro Area: Over 19 million
• Largest public transit system in the US
• More than 800 languages spoken
• Over 50 million tourists visit annually

New York City is the largest city in the United States. Often called "The City That Never Sleeps," NYC is home to more than 8.3 million residents packed into just over 300 square miles.

From Wall Street's financial epicenter to the creative pulse of Broadway, from the immigrant stories of Ellis Island to the trendsetting streets of Brooklyn, New York embodies diversity and ambition. Landmarks include the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Times Square, and the Empire State Building.

Its five boroughs—Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island—function like cities within a city, each with distinct identities. It is also headquarters for the United Nations and dozens of global corporations.

Los Angeles, California

• Population: Around 4 million
• Metro Area: Over 12.5 million
• Home to Hollywood and the global film industry
• Second-largest school district in the country
• One of the most diverse cities in the US

Los Angeles is the nation's entertainment capital and the second-largest city. It spreads across Southern California between the Pacific Ocean and the San Gabriel Mountains. Known for its Mediterranean climate, palm-lined boulevards, and celebrity sightings, LA has global cultural reach.

Its economy is driven by media, technology, fashion, aerospace, and tourism. The city is home to iconic neighborhoods like Beverly Hills, Venice Beach, and Echo Park.

Chicago, Illinois

• Population: About 2.7 million
• Metro Area: Over 9 million
• A major rail and freight hub
• Headquarters for companies like Boeing and United
• Host to more than 200 annual festivals

Nicknamed the "Windy City," Chicago is the largest city in the Midwest and the third-largest in the country. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the city is known for its deep-dish pizza, bold architecture, and strong cultural legacy in jazz and blues.

Chicago played a pivotal role in shaping the modern American city. It remains a leader in finance, commerce, and transportation, with one of the world’s busiest airports—O’Hare International.

Houston, Texas

• Population: Around 2.3 million
• Metro Area: Over 7 million
• Fourth-largest city in the country
• One of the most ethnically diverse cities in America
• Leading hub for space and medical research

Houston is the largest city in Texas and a booming center for energy, especially oil and gas. It also leads in aerospace, with NASA’s Johnson Space Center located in the city.

Houston is one of the most important port cities in the US and is highly international in character. The food scene draws from over 90 different nationalities. The city has invested heavily in revitalization and green space.

Phoenix, Arizona

• Population: Over 1.7 million
• Metro Area: Over 5 million
• Nation’s sunniest major city
• Fastest-growing large city
• Emerging center for tech and healthcare

Phoenix is the fifth-largest city in the country and the fastest-growing major city in the United States. Located in the Sonoran Desert, it offers a mix of outdoor recreation, economic opportunity, and southwestern culture.

Year-round sunshine and relatively affordable housing have made it attractive to transplants, especially from colder climates. The area also includes Scottsdale and Tempe, expanding its appeal.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• Population: Around 1.6 million
• Metro Area: Over 6 million
• Birthplace of the US Constitution
• One of America’s largest college towns
• Strategic East Coast location between NYC and D.C.

Philadelphia blends historic charm with modern influence. It is known as the birthplace of American democracy, home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.

The city has experienced a cultural and economic renaissance in recent years. With a thriving food scene, renowned universities, and major healthcare institutions, it serves as both a historic and contemporary urban center.

San Antonio, Texas

• Population: Over 1.5 million
• Metro Area: Nearly 2.6 million
• Site of the Alamo
• Major center for military and defense
• Rapid population growth with strong cultural identity

San Antonio is the second-largest city in Texas and one of the most historic. It is famous for the Alamo and the scenic River Walk.

Though often overshadowed by Houston or Dallas, San Antonio is steadily growing. It has strong job markets in military defense, cybersecurity, and tourism. The city also boasts deep cultural roots influenced by its Spanish and Mexican heritage.

What These Cities Say About America Today

The largest cities in the United States are more than population centers. They are reflections of national growth, migration trends, and the diverse economic and cultural forces that shape the country. Each city brings something distinct to the table—from New York's global finance and culture to Houston's energy leadership and Phoenix’s rapid expansion.

In a time of shifting demographics and urban development, these cities continue to evolve. They remain essential not just because of their size, but because of their influence on the future of the American experience.

The 7 Largest Cities by Population