How Big is Boston Compared to Other Cities?
Boston, Massachusetts, is a city rich in history, culture, and education. With a population of approximately 692,600 residents as of 2021, it is often wondered how Boston compares in size to other major cities around the world. In this article, we will explore the population, land area, and economic status of Boston in comparison to other well-known cities.
Firstly, when it comes to population, Boston is smaller than some of the world’s largest cities. For instance, New York City has a population of over 8.5 million residents, making it the most populous city in the United States. Los Angeles follows closely behind with a population of around 4 million. In contrast, Boston’s population is significantly smaller, although it is still considered a major city in the country.
In terms of land area, Boston covers approximately 89 square miles. This makes it larger than cities like San Francisco (46.9 square miles) and Seattle (83.9 square miles), but smaller than cities like Chicago (234.1 square miles) and Philadelphia (136.2 square miles). Despite its relatively smaller land area, Boston’s density is quite high, with over 7,800 people per square mile.
When comparing Boston’s economic status to other cities, it ranks among the top in the United States. Boston is home to several major universities, including Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), which contribute to the city’s vibrant economy. The city’s GDP in 2019 was estimated at $413.6 billion, placing it as the 10th largest city economy in the United States.
Now, let’s look at some international comparisons. London, England, has a population of over 8.9 million residents and covers an area of 607 square miles. Tokyo, Japan, boasts a population of over 13.5 million and spans 622 square miles. These cities dwarf Boston in both population and land area.
However, when comparing population density, Boston takes the lead. With over 7,800 people per square mile, Boston is one of the most densely populated cities in the United States. This high density is attributed to the city’s compact urban design and its rich history, which has led to the preservation of many older buildings and limited expansion into the suburbs.
In conclusion, Boston is a relatively small city when compared to some of the world’s largest cities in terms of population and land area. However, its economic status and high population density make it a significant player in the global urban landscape. While it may not match the sheer size of cities like Tokyo or London, Boston’s unique blend of history, culture, and education places it among the most influential cities in the United States.
