The United States of America is the world’s third largest country by population and home to some of the world’s most recognizable and dynamic cities. These urban giants are known for their sizable populations, often expansive land areas, and distinctive skyscraper-dominated skylines, all of which contribute to the country’s cultural and economic strength and landscape. From thriving business districts to rich historical landmarks, the U.S.’s cities represent the diverse fabric of American life and history.
The following ranking lists the ten most populous cities in the United States, based on the most recent population figures for each city.
The 10 largest cities in the USA in 2024:
1. New York City
New York City is by far the largest city in the United States by population. New York City is known as a global center for finance, culture, and entertainment. Known for its iconic skyline, the Atlantic city is also home to landmarks such as Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty, all of which contribute to NYC being the most photographed and filmed city in the world. NYC is also known as one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse places on Earth, making it a true cultural melting pot. The city’s robust economy is of global importance, driven primarily by the city’s “Wall Street” financial industry and numerous large global corporations.
New York is not only the most populous city in the USA, but also by far the city with the highest population density in the country.
2. Los Angeles
Los Angeles is the second largest city in the United States and the largest in the state of California. Los Angeles is best known as the center of the American and global entertainment industry, especially for its famous “Hollywood” district. The city also offers a diverse cultural scene with numerous museums, theaters and music events. LA’s economy is quite diverse these days, with strong industries in technology, aerospace and fashion. Its location right on the Pacific Ocean, city beaches and relatively pleasant climate also make the city a popular tourist destination.
3. Chicago
Chicago is the third largest city in the USA. As by far the largest city in the US state of Illinois, Chicago is an important financial and cultural center in the entire American Midwest and is located directly on the shores of Lake Michigan. one of the largest lakes in the world. The city’s skyline is dominated by iconic buildings such as the Willis Tower. Chicago is also known as a center for education and research and has a vibrant arts scene with numerous theaters, museums and music venues. In addition, it is a major transportation hub in the region with a strong industrial base.
4. Houston
Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States. It is also the largest city in the U.S. state of Texas. Located near the Gulf of Mexico, the city is best known for the Johnson Space Center, NASA’s space center, which is located in the city. The city is also known for its extensive energy industry, particularly oil and natural gas. Houston is also home to the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world. The city also has a renowned technology industry, particularly in the field of aviation. The city is named after Sam Houston, a general in the Texas Army during the Texas Revolution and President of the Republic of Texas.
5. Phoenix
Phoenix completes the list of the top five largest cities in the United States. Phoenix is the capital and largest city of the U.S. state of Arizona. The city is perhaps best known for the surrounding desert land, but it has increasingly become a popular place to live and work. Phoenix has consistently been one of America’s fastest-growing cities over the past few decades. The city is particularly inviting for outdoor enthusiasts with numerous recreational areas in the city, including South Mountain Park, known as the second largest city park in the United States.
6. Philadelphia
Philadelphia is the sixth largest city in America. It is also the most populous city in the U.S. state of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia is one of the oldest cities in the United States. The city has played a crucial role in U.S. history and was the capital of the United States until 1800. The city’s wealth of American history is reflected in various landmarks such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. The city also has a vibrant arts scene with numerous museums, theaters, and historical sites. Philadelphia’s economy is diverse, with strengths in education, healthcare, and finance.
7. San Antonio
San Antonio is the seventh largest city in the United States by population. San Antonio is the second largest city in the state of Texas and is best known for its historic sites, most notably the Alamo, the site of the decisive Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution. Another popular highlight of the city is the scenic “River Walk.” The city’s population has grown rapidly in recent decades, and with it the local economy. San Antonio is also known for its architecture and cultural heritage, which is influenced by its Spanish colonial past.
8. San Diego
San Diego ranks eighth in the list of largest cities in the United States. San Diego is located in Southern California, right on the US-Mexico border across from Tijuana, Mexico. It is also right on the Pacific Ocean, and thus has a large Pacific coastline. The city is known as the oldest city in California and therefore has great historical significance, as evidenced by many historical landmarks. San Diego is also home to the largest US naval base on the US West Coast and has increasingly established itself as an important biotechnology location.
9.Dallas
Dallas ranks ninth among the top 10 largest cities in the United States. Dallas is the third-largest city in Texas and the center of the state’s most populous metropolitan area, which is also one of the most populous in the entire country. The city is also an important economic center for the entire United States, as many large global companies have their headquarters in Dallas. It therefore has great economic influence in areas such as telecommunications, technology, finance, and defense. The city is also known for its modern skyline, many cultural institutions, and its vibrant arts district.
10. Jacksonville
Jacksonville completes the list of the ten largest cities in the USA. Jacksonville is not only the tenth largest city in the USA by population, but also by far the largest city in the entire contiguous US mainland. As the largest city in the US state of Florida, located directly on the Atlantic Ocean, the city serves as an important military and civilian deep-water port for the entire region. Jacksonville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the USA, driven by its increasingly diverse local economy with key sectors in industrial manufacturing and biomedical engineering.
Top 10 largest cities in the USA:
| Condition: | Population: | |
|---|---|---|
| 1. New York City | new York | ~ 8.26 million |
| 2. Los Angeles | California | ~ 3.82 million |
| 3. Chicago | Illinois | ~ 2.67 million |
| 4. Houston | Texas | ~ 2.31 million |
| 5. Phoenix | Arizona | ~ 1.62 million |
| 6. Philadelphia | Pennsylvania | ~ 1.57 million |
| 7. San Antonio | Texas | ~ 1.47 million |
| 8. San Diego | California | ~ 1.38 million |
| 9.Dallas | Texas | ~ 1.30 million |
| 10. Jacksonville | Florida | ~ 990,000 |
The ten largest cities in the USA by population in the actual city area, excluding metropolitan population.
Sources for the ranking:
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