This list presents the 50 most populous cities in the United States according to the official estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau as of July 2024. These metropolitan areas showcase the country's diversity in economic, cultural, and geographic aspects. From New York with 8.48 million residents, a global hub of finance and media, to Los Angeles, the center of cinema, through Chicago with its notable architecture, Houston with its space industry, and Philadelphia, the city that founded American independence, each destination has its own identity. San Antonio preserves traces of the colonial era around the Alamo, while Phoenix is experiencing rapid growth in the Arizona desert. These large American cities, spread from Texas to California and from Florida to Illinois, offer a comprehensive view of the country's urban realities. Together, they host several tens of millions of inhabitants and are the main drivers of the national economy, each developing specialties from the energy sector to new technologies, maritime trade, and medical research.
New York, United States
New York is the most populous city in the United States with 8.48 million residents. The city spans five boroughs and serves as a leading center for international finance, commerce, and culture. Wall Street forms the heart of global banking, while Broadway and numerous museums define the cultural landscape. The city hosts the United Nations headquarters and attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year.
California, United States
Los Angeles is the second most populated city in the United States with 3.88 million residents. This metropolis spreads across the Los Angeles Basin in Southern California and serves as the center of the American film and television industry. Hollywood, a district within Los Angeles, houses major production studios and attracts visitors from around the world daily. The city features a significant port, numerous museums including the Getty Center and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and extensive beaches along the Pacific coastline.
Illinois, United States
Chicago is the third largest city in the United States with 2.72 million residents. The metropolis sits on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan in the state of Illinois. Chicago developed in the 19th century as a major transportation hub and commercial center. The city contains notable skyscrapers and is considered the birthplace of modern high-rise architecture. Chicago serves as the economic and cultural center of the Midwest region.
Texas, United States
Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States with a population of 2.39 million residents. The city serves as the center of the American energy industry, hosting numerous oil and gas companies. Houston is home to NASA's Johnson Space Center, which functions as the control center for human spaceflight operations. The city is located in southeastern Texas, approximately 50 miles from the Gulf of Mexico.
Arizona, United States
Phoenix is the fifth largest city in the United States with a population of 1.67 million residents. This metropolis sits in the Sonoran Desert basin and has experienced dynamic population growth for decades. The city has developed into a major center for technology companies, semiconductor manufacturing, and software development. Phoenix attracts numerous visitors annually who appreciate the sunny climate with over 300 days of sunshine per year, nearby natural areas, and modern urban facilities. The economy is based on various sectors including healthcare, education, financial services, and retail.
Pennsylvania, United States
Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania and the sixth most populous city in the United States, with 1.57 million residents. The city played a central role in American history as the meeting place of the Continental Congress and the site where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. Philadelphia houses the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American freedom, and Independence Hall, where the Constitution was drafted. The city features significant museums, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and an extensive historic district with buildings dating back to the 18th century.
Texas, United States
San Antonio is the seventh largest city in the United States with 1.53 million residents and is located in southern Texas. This metropolis combines its Spanish and Mexican colonial heritage with modern economic development. The historic Alamo fort stands in the downtown area and commemorates Texas independence in 1836. The River Walk extends for several miles along the San Antonio River and features restaurants, shops, and cultural venues. The city contains five Spanish colonial missions from the 18th century that are designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. San Antonio serves as a center for biotechnology, finance, and tourism with a growing population.
California, United States
San Diego is the eighth largest city in the United States with a population of 1.40 million residents. This coastal city is located in southern California, near the Mexican border along the Pacific Ocean. San Diego serves as home to several major U.S. Navy bases, including the largest naval fleet concentration on the West Coast. The biotechnology and life sciences sector has grown into a major economic driver, with numerous research institutions and companies operating in the region. The mild Mediterranean climate provides an average of 266 sunny days per year, supporting outdoor recreation and beach activities throughout the year. The city spans 964 square kilometers, extending from the coastline into inland valleys and hills.
Texas, United States
Dallas is the ninth largest city in the United States with 1.33 million residents. This metropolis serves as the economic and cultural center of northern Texas. The city has developed into a major financial hub hosting headquarters of numerous international corporations. The Arts District houses multiple museums and theaters. Dallas is recognized for its role in the history of American oil trade and for its textile and technology industries. The city operates an international airport and forms a large metropolitan area together with Fort Worth.
Florida, United States
Jacksonville is the most populous city in Florida and the tenth largest city in the United States with 1.01 million residents. The city covers an area of over 2,200 square kilometers, making it the largest city by area in the continental United States. Jacksonville is located in northeastern Florida along the St. Johns River, approximately 40 kilometers from its mouth at the Atlantic Ocean. The city serves as an economic and cultural center for the region.
Texas, United States
Fort Worth is the eleventh largest city in the United States with 1.01 million residents. The city forms a major metropolitan area together with Dallas and preserves its historic heritage from the American West era. The Stockyards National Historic District recalls its past as a cattle trading center. Fort Worth features several major museums, including the Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum. The city's economy is based on aviation, defense, energy, and financial services.
California, United States
San José is California's third largest city with a population of 997,368 residents. The city serves as the economic and administrative center of Silicon Valley. Numerous technology companies and research institutions maintain their headquarters here. San José hosts several universities, including San José State University. The city covers an area of 467 square kilometers in the southern part of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Texas, United States
Austin serves as the capital of Texas and ranks as the thirteenth largest city in the United States with a population of 993,588 residents. The city has become a major center for technology companies and startups. Austin is recognized for its live music venues and hosts numerous music festivals throughout the year. The University of Texas at Austin is one of the largest public universities in the country. The Texas State Capitol, constructed from red granite, stands as a prominent downtown landmark. Lady Bird Lake, formed by the Colorado River, provides recreational opportunities within the city limits.
North Carolina, United States
Charlotte stands as the most populous city in North Carolina and serves as a major financial center in the southeastern United States. The city hosts headquarters of several large banks and ranks as the second-largest banking center in the country after New York. With a population exceeding 943,000 residents, Charlotte represents an economic hub that attracts companies from finance, energy, and technology sectors.
Ohio, United States
Columbus is the capital of Ohio and the fifteenth largest city in the United States with a population of 933,263. The city is home to Ohio State University, one of the largest universities in the country. Columbus has developed into a major center for research, technology, and financial services. The city's economy benefits from numerous companies in logistics, fashion, and healthcare sectors. Columbus features several museums, including the Columbus Museum of Art and the Center of Science and Industry.
Indiana, United States
Indianapolis is the capital of Indiana and has a population of 891,484 residents. The city serves as a center for the automotive industry, hosting manufacturing facilities and research centers. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway holds the annual Indy 500, a major automobile race. Indianapolis supports professional sports teams across multiple leagues and functions as a significant commercial hub in the Midwest. The economy relies on manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and financial services.
California, United States
San Francisco is the seventeenth largest city in the United States with 827,526 residents. The city occupies a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. San Francisco hosts numerous technology companies and innovation research centers. The city features a dense public transportation network, including historic cable cars. The urban area encompasses diverse neighborhoods with varied architectural styles and cultural institutions.
Washington, United States
Seattle is the eighteenth largest city in the United States with 780,995 residents. The city is located in Washington State on Puget Sound and serves as a major center for technology and commerce on the West Coast. Seattle hosts the headquarters of several large corporations and attracts professionals from around the world. The Port of Seattle plays a central role in transpacific trade, connecting North America with Asian markets. The city maintains developed infrastructure for research and development across various fields of modern technology.
Colorado, United States
Denver is the capital of Colorado, situated at an elevation of 1,609 meters at the base of the Rocky Mountains. The city was founded in 1858 during the gold rush and developed into the economic center of the mining region. Today, its economy focuses on telecommunications, aerospace, and renewable energy. The climate is semi-arid with over 300 days of sunshine annually. Denver serves as a gateway to ski resorts and national parks in the Rocky Mountains.
Oklahoma, United States
Oklahoma City is the capital of Oklahoma and has a population of 712,919, making it the twentieth largest city in the country. Located in the heart of the Great Plains, this metropolis developed rapidly following the Land Run of 1889. The city hosts numerous companies in the oil and natural gas industry, as well as livestock operations. Oklahoma City features several museums, including the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. The local economy relies on energy production, aviation, and logistics sectors.
Tennessee, United States
Nashville is the capital of Tennessee with a population of 704,963 residents. The city is known as Music City due to its historical importance in country music and hosts the Grand Ole Opry along with numerous recording studios. Nashville has developed into a major healthcare industry center with several large hospital corporations and medical research facilities. The city maintains a growing economy in music, medicine, publishing, and technology sectors.
District of Columbia, United States
Washington serves as the federal capital of the United States and houses the three branches of government: the White House for the executive, the Capitol for Congress, and the Supreme Court. The city was established in 1790 and named after George Washington. The National Mall extends between the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol, featuring numerous monuments and memorials. The Smithsonian Institution operates nineteen museums that offer free admission to the public. Washington has a population of 702,250 residents, making it the twenty-second most populous American city.
Texas, United States
El Paso is located in far western Texas on the border with Mexico, forming a binational metropolitan area with Ciudad Juárez. The city hosts Fort Bliss, one of the largest military installations in the United States, which plays a significant economic role. El Paso serves as a commercial and logistics hub between the United States and Mexico with major border crossings. The economy is based on defense, international manufacturing, and cross-border trade. The University of Texas at El Paso contributes to the educational landscape. The climate is dry and desert-like.
Nevada, United States
Las Vegas is the most populous city in Nevada with 678,922 residents. The city sits in the Mojave Desert and was founded in 1905. Las Vegas grew into a gambling center starting in the 1930s after Nevada legalized gaming. The famous Strip extends for several miles and houses numerous hotels, casinos, and entertainment venues. The city welcomes over 40 million visitors annually from around the world. Las Vegas also serves as an economic hub for conventions, trade shows, and entertainment productions.
Massachusetts, United States
Boston is the twenty-fifth largest city in the United States with 673,458 residents. This Massachusetts city was founded in 1630 and played a central role in the American Revolution. Boston hosts several leading universities, including Harvard and MIT. The city has developed into a major center for biotechnology, medicine, and financial services. Boston Harbor remains an important economic driver for the region.
Michigan, United States
Detroit is the twenty-sixth largest American city by population with 645,705 residents and sits on the Detroit River along the Canadian border. The city developed during the 20th century as the center of American automobile manufacturing with Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler. Detroit has experienced urban renewal following economic difficulties, with restoration of historic neighborhoods and new cultural facilities. Motown music originated here in the 1960s and had lasting influence on American popular culture.
Kentucky, United States
Louisville is the largest city in Kentucky with a population of 640,796 residents. The city sits along the Ohio River and serves as the economic and cultural center of the region. Louisville is globally recognized for hosting the Kentucky Derby, held annually at Churchill Downs racetrack. The city features numerous bourbon distilleries along the Urban Bourbon Trail route. The historic Old Louisville neighborhood displays Victorian architecture from the 19th century. The Muhammad Ali Center documents the life of the famous boxer who was born here. Louisville hosts major healthcare and logistics companies and maintains a developed manufacturing industry.
Oregon, United States
Portland is the largest city in the state of Oregon with a population of 635,749 residents. The city sits at the confluence of the Willamette River and the Columbia River. Portland operates an extensive public transportation network including streetcars, buses, and light rail. The city contains numerous parks, including Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States. Portland serves as a center for independent breweries, coffee roasters, and local food producers. The economy relies on technology, manufacturing, and service industries. The city maintains programs promoting bicycle transportation and waste reduction.
Tennessee, United States
Memphis is the twenty-ninth largest city in the United States with 610,919 residents. The city sits on the Mississippi River and has a long history as a trading port. Memphis is known for its role in the development of blues, soul, and rock and roll music. Beale Street concentrates numerous music clubs and restaurants. The city developed its own tradition of barbecue cooking with slow-smoked pork. The National Civil Rights Museum occupies the former Lorraine Motel. Memphis serves as a major distribution hub for freight transport in the region.
Maryland, United States
Baltimore is the thirtieth city in the United States with 568,271 residents. This port city sits on the Chesapeake Bay and has developed into a major commercial center since its founding in 1729. The Inner Harbor forms the tourist center, featuring the National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, and historic ships. Fort McHenry, where the American national anthem was written, stands at the harbor entrance. The city houses several universities, including Johns Hopkins University. Baltimore comprises various neighborhoods such as Fells Point with its cobblestone streets and Federal Hill offering views of downtown.
Wisconsin, United States
Milwaukee sits on the western shore of Lake Michigan and serves as Wisconsin's economic center. The city developed during the 19th century through German immigration, which established numerous breweries and shaped its industrial character. Milwaukee hosts major manufacturing facilities for machinery, electronics, and food products. The urban area extends along the Milwaukee River and maintains an inland port for Great Lakes cargo transport.
New Mexico, United States
Albuquerque is the largest city in New Mexico with a population of 560,326 residents. Located in the central part of the state along the Rio Grande, the city serves as a major economic and cultural center for the region. Albuquerque is home to the University of New Mexico and several research facilities, including Sandia National Laboratories. The city maintains strong ties to Hispanic and Native American heritage and plays a significant role in aerospace and technology industries.
Arizona, United States
Tucson is the second-largest city in Arizona with a population of 554,013 residents. This city sits in the southern part of the state, surrounded by five mountain ranges in the Sonora Desert. Tucson hosts the University of Arizona, a major research institution, and displays strong Spanish and Mexican influences in its architecture and culture. The city serves as an economic center for southern Arizona with industries in aerospace, optics, and technology.
California, United States
Fresno stands as the most populous city in California's Central Valley, with 550,105 residents. This city serves as the economic hub for the surrounding agricultural region, one of the most productive in the United States. Fresno processes and distributes agricultural products including grapes, citrus fruits, cotton, and nuts. The city hosts major service industries, educational institutions, and healthcare centers that serve the entire Central Valley region.
California, United States
Sacramento serves as the capital of California and sits at the confluence of the Sacramento River and American River. The city houses the California State Capitol, the governor's office, and state administrative agencies. With a population of 535,798, Sacramento ranks as the 35th largest city in the United States. The economy relies on government institutions, healthcare, education, and agriculture from the Central Valley. The Old Sacramento district preserves buildings and structures from the 19th century Gold Rush era. The city contains several museums, including the Crocker Art Museum and the California State Railroad Museum.
Georgia, United States
Atlanta is the capital and largest city of Georgia, with a population of 520,070 residents. The city developed in the 19th century as a railroad junction and became a major commercial center of the American South. Atlanta is home to Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, the world's busiest airport by passenger traffic. The city hosted the 1996 Summer Olympics and played a central role in the Civil Rights Movement. Today, numerous Fortune 500 companies have their headquarters here, including Coca-Cola and Delta Air Lines. The metropolitan area spans multiple counties and serves as the economic hub of the region.
Arizona, United States
Mesa ranks as the thirty-seventh most populous city in the United States with 517,151 residents. This city sits east of Phoenix and forms an integral part of the Phoenix metropolitan area. Mesa extends across the Sonoran Desert landscape and hosts several higher education institutions, including Arizona State University Polytechnic. The city contains major employers in aerospace and healthcare sectors and continues to develop as an economic center in the region.
Missouri, United States
Kansas City sits at the confluence of the Missouri and Kansas rivers and serves as the largest city in Missouri. The city developed during the 19th century as a major trading and transportation hub. It houses several museums, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art with its substantial art collection. The city emerged as a birthplace of jazz music during the 1920s and 1930s and maintains a long-standing tradition of barbecue cooking. Kansas City features a network of boulevards and parks alongside modern downtown business districts.
North Carolina, United States
Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina with a population of 499,825 residents. The city forms part of the Research Triangle alongside Durham and Chapel Hill, serving as a major center for technology, research, and higher education. Raleigh hosts North Carolina State University and numerous technology companies. The economy focuses on biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and software development. The temperate climate and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains make Raleigh an attractive residential location.
Colorado, United States
Colorado Springs is the second-largest city in Colorado with a population of 493,554 residents. The city sits at the eastern foot of the Rocky Mountains, south of Denver, near Pikes Peak. Colorado Springs hosts several military installations, including the United States Air Force Academy, Fort Carson, and Peterson Space Force Base. The city serves as a gateway to numerous natural areas and hiking trails in the surrounding mountains. The Garden of the Gods, a public park featuring distinctive red sandstone formations, ranks among the most visited attractions in the region.
Nebraska, United States
Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska with a population of 489,265 residents. The city developed as a major center for insurance and finance in the United States. Omaha hosts several Fortune 500 companies and plays an important role in agriculture and transportation industries. The city sits on the Missouri River and serves as a regional transportation hub for the Midwest.
Florida, United States
Miami is a coastal city in southeastern Florida with a population of 487,014 residents. The city serves as a major commercial hub connecting the United States with Latin America. Miami operates an international airport and a seaport that handle substantial cargo and passenger traffic. The population includes large communities from Cuba, Colombia, Venezuela, and other Latin American countries. Spanish is widely spoken throughout the city. The tropical climate allows for year-round outdoor activities. The economy relies on finance, international trade, tourism, and real estate sectors.
Virginia, United States
Virginia Beach is the 43rd largest city in the United States with a population of 454,808 residents. This coastal city is located on the Atlantic Ocean and spans 1,288 square kilometers. The city features 56 kilometers of sandy beaches and serves as a major tourist destination on the East Coast. Virginia Beach hosts several military installations, including Naval Air Station Oceana and Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. The city's economy relies on tourism, defense, and maritime activities. The oceanfront boardwalk area contains numerous hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Virginia Beach is also recognized for its natural preservation areas, including Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
California, United States
Long Beach is the forty-fourth most populous city in the United States with 450,901 residents. This Pacific Coast port city is located south of Los Angeles and operates one of the busiest container ports in the country. The city is home to numerous museums, including the historic ocean liner Queen Mary, which is permanently docked in the harbor. Long Beach is characterized by its ethnic diversity, with significant communities from Latin America, Asia, and the Pacific Islands. The city's economy relies on maritime shipping, trade, tourism, and the aerospace industry.
California, United States
Oakland ranks forty-fifth among American cities with 443,554 residents. This port city on the bay has developed into a center for contemporary art and social movements. Oakland houses numerous galleries, theaters, and cultural institutions presenting local and international artists. The city combines industrial history with modern neighborhoods where restaurants, breweries, and artisan businesses have emerged. The port plays a significant role in West Coast commerce, while the city's communities are recognized for their civic engagement and cultural diversity.
Minnesota, United States
Minneapolis sits along the Mississippi River and forms the Twin Cities metropolitan area with state capital Saint Paul. The city has 428,579 residents and serves as a financial center hosting several Fortune 500 companies. Minneapolis features an extensive theater district, numerous museums, and the Guthrie Theater. The Chain of Lakes system within city limits includes multiple bodies of water used for recreation. The downtown skyway network forms one of the longest covered pedestrian systems in the world.
California, United States
Bakersfield ranks as the forty-seventh city in the United States with a population of 417,468 residents. This city is located in California's Central Valley and plays a significant role in the oil and agriculture industries. Bakersfield's economy relies on petroleum extraction and the cultivation of various agricultural products. The city serves as an economic hub for the surrounding region.
Oklahoma, United States
Tulsa is the second-largest city in Oklahoma with a population of 415,154 residents. The city developed as a major economic center during the early 20th-century oil boom. Tulsa contains a notable concentration of Art Deco architecture from the 1920s and 1930s. The historic downtown area preserves numerous examples of this architectural period. The energy industry continues to play a central role in the local economy.
Florida, United States
Tampa is a port city located on the west coast of Florida along the Gulf of Mexico and ranks as the third largest city in the state. The city developed as a commercial and industrial center, particularly through cigar manufacturing in the historic Ybor City district. Tampa operates a major seaport, one of the most important in the country, and serves as an economic hub for the Tampa Bay region. The city hosts several universities as well as professional sports teams, attracting numerous visitors each year who appreciate the warm climate and proximity to the Gulf beaches.
Texas, United States
Arlington is the fiftieth largest city in the United States with 403,672 residents, located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The city hosts AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, and Globe Life Field, where the Texas Rangers play. As a significant economic center, Arlington features a diversified industrial base including automotive, aerospace, and entertainment sectors. The city combines urban development with numerous parks and recreational facilities.