Introduction
When we think of the largest cities in the United States, our minds often jump to the bustling metropolises like New York City, Los Angeles, or Chicago. While these cities are undoubtedly massive in terms of population and economic influence, there’s another aspect to consider when measuring a city’s size: its land area. In this exploration, we’ll venture beyond the skyscrapers and crowded streets to discover the largest cities in the United States by land area. Prepare to be surprised as we delve into the wide-open spaces of these cities.
- Wrangell, Alaska
Our journey through the largest cities by area in the United States begins in the northernmost state, Alaska. The Alaskan wilderness is known for its breathtaking beauty and vast landscapes, and Wrangell is a prime example of this. With a land area of approximately 3,476.4 square miles, Wrangell takes the top spot as the largest city by area in the entire country. Yet, despite its expansive territory, its population remains relatively small, creating a unique blend of remote living and rugged natural beauty.
- Sitka, Alaska
Staying within the beautiful state of Alaska, we find our next contender: Sitka. With an impressive land area of around 2,870.3 square miles, Sitka is the second-largest city in the United States in terms of landmass. Nestled among the islands and fjords of Southeast Alaska, Sitka is renowned for its rich Native Alaskan and Russian history, as well as its stunning wilderness.
- Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Alaska
Our exploration of the largest cities by area takes an unexpected turn as we stumble upon Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. This vast area, encompassing approximately 2,619.8 square miles, is not a traditional city by any means, but it is managed by the National Park Service and holds a special place in our list due to its sheer size. This expansive wilderness boasts breathtaking landscapes, glaciers, and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Anchorage, Alaska
Alaska continues to dominate our list with Anchorage, the largest city in the state, and the fourth largest in the United States in terms of land area. Anchorage covers approximately 1,946.7 square miles, making it larger than the states of Rhode Island and Delaware combined. Despite its enormous size, Anchorage is a vibrant urban center with a thriving population and a wide range of cultural and recreational activities.
- Jacksonville, Florida
Leaving the Alaskan wilderness behind, we head south to Jacksonville, Florida, the first non-Alaskan city on our list. Jacksonville boasts an expansive land area of about 874.6 square miles, making it the largest city by area in the contiguous United States. This vibrant city offers a unique blend of urban amenities, picturesque beaches, and a rich cultural scene.
- Anaconda, Montana
As we venture inland, we stumble upon Anaconda, Montana, a city with a land area of approximately 736.9 square miles. Nestled in the heart of Big Sky Country, Anaconda is known for its mining history and outdoor recreational opportunities. Its vast territory encompasses a wide range of landscapes, from pristine lakes to rugged mountain terrain.
- Butte-Silver Bow, Montana
Just a short drive from Anaconda, we find another Montanan city that deserves a spot on our list: Butte-Silver Bow. This unique city-county consolidation covers approximately 716.0 square miles, making it one of the largest cities by area in the United States. Butte-Silver Bow is steeped in mining history and offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved historic districts.
- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Heading to the Great Plains, we arrive in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, which boasts a land area of around 606.4 square miles. As the largest city by land area in the state, Oklahoma City has a diverse and growing population. It’s a cultural and economic hub with a thriving arts scene, world-class museums, and a strong sense of community.
- Phoenix, Arizona
In the arid deserts of Arizona, we find Phoenix, the fifth-largest city in the United States by population and the ninth largest by land area, covering approximately 517.9 square miles. Known for its scorching summers and mild winters, Phoenix is a sprawling metropolis surrounded by stunning desert landscapes. It’s a city that blends urban development with the natural beauty of the Southwest.
- Kalawao County, Hawaii
Our journey concludes in the tropical paradise of Hawaii, where we find Kalawao County, a unique inclusion on our list. While it is not a traditional city, Kalawao County has a land area of approximately 12.4 square miles, making it the largest county by area in Hawaii. This county has a unique history as a former leper colony and offers a glimpse into Hawaii’s past.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our exploration of the largest cities by area in the United States, we’ve ventured from the rugged wilderness of Alaska to the sun-soaked deserts of Arizona, discovering a diverse range of landscapes and communities along the way. While population size often dominates discussions about cities, the land area is equally fascinating, showcasing the vastness and diversity of this great nation. Whether you prefer the remote wilderness of Alaska or the bustling streets of Oklahoma City, each of these cities has its own unique charm and character, waiting to be explored. So, the next time you think about the largest cities in the United States, remember that size isn’t just about skyscrapers and city blocks; it’s about the wide-open spaces and natural beauty that make these cities truly remarkable.
