The Biggest Cities in the US
You probably know about the Big Apple and New York City, but do you really know which cities in the US have the largest population? You may be surprised to learn that Phoenix, Arizona is the largest city in the Sonoran Desert. But what about Los Angeles, California? And Chicago, Illinois? The third largest city in the country? Houston, Texas, ranks fourth in the country’s population. So, what are these cities and what are they like?
Phoenix is the largest city in the Sonoran Desert
Phoenix is situated in the northern part of Arizona, near the confluence of the Salt and Gila rivers. Its climate is typical of arid, desert areas with long, extremely hot summers and mild winters. Phoenix and its surrounding region is situated in the world’s sunniest region, with a mean temperature of about 105 degrees Fahrenheit (41°C). The city’s geographic location places it in the Sonoran Desert Uplands.
Los Angeles is the second-largest city in California
The city of Los Angeles is the largest in California and the second largest in the United States. The city itself is a multicultural melting pot with a diverse population. In fact, the city has the largest number of Asian and Latino residents in the country, with more than 200 different languages being spoken. This city was first settled by Spanish missionaries in 1781. After the Mexican-American War, Los Angeles and the entire state of California became part of the United States.
Chicago is the third-largest city in the country
The 2020 Census results from the U.S. Census Bureau reveal a diverse population in Chicago. While there is some concern about the growing number of people of color, Chicago remains one of the most diverse cities in the country. While there was some decline between the 2010 and 2020 census, the city’s population grew only 1.9% between those years. According to the 2020 census, people of color now make up 43% of the total population, up from 34% in 2010.
Houston is the fourth-largest city in Texas
With a population of over two million people, Houston is the fourth-largest city of Texas and the eighth-largest city in the United States. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Houston is home to the Astros and Texans, as well as the Space Center Houston, which is NASA’s official visitor center. Here, you can take flight simulations, see real spacecrafts and astronaut memorabilia. Houston also has three major parks, including the Hermann Park Arboretum and Memorial Park, which feature a variety of city parks, monuments to military heroes, and municipal art projects.
Phoenix is home to the Dallas Cowboys
The Phoenix Cardinals are the most popular NFL team in Arizona. They’ve been the team’s home since 1974, when they finished 8-6. That was their first winning season in nine years, and they won the Eastern Conference. That season, the team drafted four future Hall of Fame players: Dak Prescott, Randy White, and Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson. In addition to those three players, the Dallas Cowboys played in the largest crowd in NFL history in Mexico City, where they played the Houston Oilers in a preseason game. The Dallas Cowboys won the game, and finished the season with a 12-4 record.
Dallas is the second-largest city on the East Coast
The population of Dallas, Texas, is almost half foreign born. The city has a fairly flat topography; elevations range from about 450 feet to 550 feet. The city was founded at a ford on the Trinity River, which made it easier for wagons to cross than bridges. Today, there are numerous cultural institutions and historical sites worth visiting. In addition to its rich history, Dallas is a cultural and economic hub for the region.
Philadelphia is the fifth-largest city on the East Coast
As the fifth-largest city in the United States, Philadelphia is a hub of international commerce, culture, and education. In addition to being an important business hub, Philadelphia is home to Fortune 500 companies and major corporations. The city also boasts the highest standard of living per dollar in the U.S., making it an excellent choice for people looking to relocate or work in a major U.S. metropolis.
San Antonio is a cultural mecca
A cultural mecca in the US, San Antonio embodies the spirit of Texas. With its rich history and Native American presence, San Antonio is a history buff’s haven. Before Spanish explorers took up residence in the area, it was inhabited by a small Native American tribe, Yanaguana. In the early 1700s, Spanish expeditions first explored the area. During the 18th century, San Antonio became the largest Spanish settlement in Texas, and was designated as the province’s capital in 1821.
Phoenix has a great job
While many Americans may associate Las Vegas with high-paying finance and technology jobs, Phoenix’s diverse job market is a refreshing change. The city’s top industries are not as concentrated in finance and technology, but the number of hospitality and leisure jobs is higher. Only 3% of the population is employed in higher-paying finance jobs, and those that do exist are low-paying. With that said, Phoenix does a great job as a middle-aged uncle who wants to do something with his life.
