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New York City, New York. Population: 8,550,405[6]
Not only is New York City twice the size of the second largest city, Los Angeles, it also has the highest population density of any major city in the United States. Astoundingly, about 1 in every 38 people in the U.S. lives in New York City. “The City that Never Sleeps” also acts as the cultural, financial, and media capital of the world. Nearly 800 languages are spoken in New York, making it the most linguistically diverse city on the planet.
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Los Angeles, California. Population: 3,971,883[2]
Attracting celebrities, artists, and free spirits from all over the world, Los Angeles is California's most populous city and the second most populous city in the United States. It can be hard to wrap your head around just how big Los Angeles is because the sprawling metropolis continually engulfs surrounding cities in an electrifying whirlpool of people, creativity, and cityscapes.
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Chicago, Illinois. Population: 2,720,546[4]
The third largest city in the United States by population is Chicago, Illinois, with over 2.7 million residents. As one of the most important business hubs in the world, the Windy City has the second busiest airport in the world when measured by aircraft traffic and the largest number of U.S. highways and railroad freight.
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Houston, Texas. Population: 2,296,224[1]
Named after the famous General Sam Houston, Houston, Texas, is the fourth largest city in the U.S. and the largest city in Texas. Attracting one of the youngest populations in the U.S., Houston is one of the fastest growing regions in the United States, with no signs of slowing. With a population of 2,296,224 people, “H-Town” continues to charm with its plentiful jobs, housing, and education opportunities. As an extra fact: The Chicago River is the only river in the world that flows backward.
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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Population: 1,567,442[8]
Housing a population of 1,567,442, Philly is not only the fifth largest city in the U.S., it also is home to historical structures and quaint cobbled alleys that reveal its important role in shaping early United States’ democracy. Did you know that Philadelphia’s famous Liberty Bell was originally called the State House Bell. It wasn't called Liberty Bell until the mid-1800s, in coordination with the abolitionist movement. (foto-select / Getty Images)
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Phoenix, Arizona. Population: 1,563,025[9]
Phoenix consistently outpaces the United States in terms of population growth. Projections show the region is expected to grow by nearly 60 percent by 2030.
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San Antonio, Texas. Population: 1,469,845[7]
Looking to move out west? San Antonio, Texas, may be the place for you. Nicknamed “Alamo City,” San Antonio is the seventh largest city in the United States and the second most populous city in Texas. Its wild west culture coupled with its rapid urbanization means it has something for the cowboy and city slicker alike. And with attractions like the historic Alamo, it’s no surprise that San Antonio is the most visited city in Texas.
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San Diego, California. Population: 1,394,928[5]
Boasting surf, suds, and sunsets, San Diego, California, lives up to its nickname as “America’s Finest City.” With its breezy charm and sunny days, it’s no wonder that San Diego is a popular as it is, ranking number eight on our list with a population of 1,394,928. Additionally, While the weather may be a dream in San Diego, the traffic is a nightmare. The average motorist spends a grueling 256 hours a year sitting in their car.
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Dallas, Texas. Population: 1,026,908[3]
Known as the “Big D,” Dallas, Texas, is, indeed, larger than life and ranks as the ninth largest city on our list, with a population of 1,300,092. The Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport alone is larger than the entire city of Manhattan. With a vibrant job market and dynamic culture, Dallas is sure to keep up its galloping pace of growth.
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San Jose, California. Population: 1,026,908[10]
Named after “Saint Joseph,” San Jose is the tenth most populous city in the United States and the largest city in Northern California, with a population of 1,026,908. Not only is San Jose the powerhouse of Silicon Valley, it is also a global city noted for its innovation, affluence, and extremely high cost of living (clodio / GettyImages)