Let’s be honest, unless you’re from the American Midwest, chances are you’re not familiar with the state capital of Kansas. And did you know New York City is not the capital of New York State? If you’re not familiar with these two state capitals, this article is definitely for you!
The United States of America is a federal union made up of 50 self-governing states. While the nation as a whole is governed from the federal capital, Washington D.C., each state shares sovereignty with the federal government over their own territory and also has their own executive, legislative and judicial powers.
In this article we’ll help you scratch up on your US geography knowledge by comparing each state’s capital with its largest city, based on population. Where a state’s largest metropolitan region is centred around a separate city not mentioned, we will also highlight that state’s largest urban agglomeration in bold so its easier to read if you’re just scanning through.
Let’s jump right in, in alphabetical (state) order.
*All population figures are based on 2020 US census data.
Alabama
Montgomery has been the capital of Alabama since 1846. It was the short-lived first capital of the Confederate States of America, and was later the site of some of the most salient events and protests in the Civil Rights Movement. In 2020 the city had a population of 200,603 residents, with 373,225 in its metropolitan region.
Alabama’s largest economic centre, Birmingham (with a population of 209,403), used to be the largest city in the state, but was overtaken by Huntsville (with 215,006 inhabitants) in the recent 2020 census. Founded in 1805, Huntsville is nicknamed The Rocket City, having played a major part in US space missions and rocket research. It is still home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and hosts numerous other technology and research institutions.
The Birmingham-Hoover metro region, however, is still the largest metro region in Alabama, and is the 49th most populous in the US with 1,151,801 residents.
Alaska
Tucked away in the Gastineau Channel on the Alaskan panhandle (yes, we also had to look on Google Maps) is the Alaskan capital of Juneau. Unlike the other US capitals, there are no road connections to the rest of the state – or the continent – from here; meaning all supplies arrive by air or sea! Despite being the 2nd largest city in the entire United States when measured by land area, it only has a population of 31,974 inhabitants. This ironically still makes it the 3rd largest city in Alaska by population.
Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, doesn’t have a massive population in and of itself – with 291,247 residents in the city proper and 399,148 in the greater metropolitan region. Both Juneau and Anchorage are popular stopovers on Alaskan cruises; the latter also being a gateway to beautiful destinations such as the Kenai peninsula, Kodiak Island and Denali National Park.
Arizona
Known for its insanely hot weather, sweeping desert landscapes, incredible golf and amazing road trip scenery; Phoenix is the capital and largest city of the beautiful state of Arizona. With 1,608,139 people living within city limits, it is the 5th largest city proper in the United States and the country’s most populous state capital by far. The Phoenix Metro area (aka ‘The Valley of the Sun’ or just ‘The Valley’) is home to more than 4,845,800 people, making it the 11th-largest metro region in the USA.
Arkansas
Little Rock, the capital and most populous city of Arkansas, was named after a small rock formation on the Arkansas River which was used by explorers of yonder as a navigational landmark. While the city proper only has a population of 202,591, the greater metro region is home to more than 738,300 inhabitants. Quite a few major corporations have headquarters (or at least major operations) in the city; but Little Rock is arguably most famous as the site of the Clinton Foundation and the renowned University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences – which is also one of the largest employers in the state.
California
You’d be forgiven for thinking the capital of California could be one of it’s massive metropolises; but that honour rather belongs to the smallish city of Sacramento. Smallish is meant purely in context of California here though, as the city itself has a population of 524,943 (the 6th largest in the state) and a metro population of 2,397,382 residents (the 26th largest in the US). Sacramento is not only home to the state government, it is also a pretty cool city that has been rated the hipster capital of California. It was even dubbed “America’s Most Diverse City” in a 2002 civil rights project conducted by Harvard University and Time magazine.
The largest city in California, as well as all of the West Coast, is undoubtedly Los Angeles. The city proper is home to 3,898,747 people, making it the 2nd largest city in the entire United States and 3rd largest in North America (after Mexico City and New York City). It’s no secret that LA has a massive, sprawling metropolitan region; but did you know it is home to more than 13.2 million residents!?
Colorado
Frequently rated as one of the best big US cities in which to live, Denver is the capital and largest city of the unbelievably breathtaking state of Colorado. With the Rocky Mountains right on the doorstep and more than 200 parks to choose from, Denver also boasts an enviable indoors-outdoors balance that’s hard to find in other similar-sized cities. The city had a population of 715,522 in the latest census, with 2,963,821 residents in the metro region – the 19th largest in the States.
Fun fact: Denver is nicknamed the Mile High City, because its official elevation is exactly one mile above sea level.
Connecticut
Hartford, the capital of the state of Connecticut, is one of the oldest cities in the US, having been founded all the way back in 1635. It is known for its high concentration of insurance firms and as the former home of beloved American author, Mark Twain. The city has a population of 121,054 residents, while the Greater Hartford region is home to 1,214,295 people – the largest metropolitan region in the state.
With a population of 148,654, Bridgeport is the largest city proper in Connecticut; though its metropolitan region is only the second largest in the state with 939,904 people. It has had a bad reputation in the past for crime and poverty; but since the beginning of the 21st-century it has seen steady improvement, with numerous successful gentrification projects bringing new life to the city.
Delaware
Delaware’s capital city of Dover is situated in Kent County – both of which are named for their British counterparts. The city has a population of 39,403 people, making it the 2nd largest city in the 2nd smallest US state.
Wilmington, the largest city in Delaware, is known for its status as a corporate haven. It was founded on the site of the first Swedish settlement in North America, Fort Christina. Today the city has a diverse population of 70,898 residents within city limits; while the metropolitan region (which includes Cecil Country, MD and Salem County, NJ) has a population of more than 720,000. Wilmington is also part of the much larger Delaware Valley metropolitan area, which includes Philadelphia, PA and Camden, NJ.
Florida
Wait, what!? No Miami? While Miami is the heart and main economic centre of the state’s largest metropolitan region (the 8th largest in the USA with a population of 6,138,333 people), the city itself is only home to 442,241 inhabitants, making it the 2nd largest city proper in Florida.
The title of Florida’s largest city goes to Jacksonville, which had a population of 941,611 in the 2020 US census. The metro region of Jacksonville, however, is only the fourth largest in the state, with 1,605,848 residents.
With a population of only 196,169, Tallahassee, the state capital, is quite a bit smaller. It became the capital back in 1824 when Florida was still just a territory. Today it is renowned as a university town and as the main economic hub in the Florida Panhandle.
Georgia
What started as a railroad town has evolved into one of America’s greatest cities, home to some of the most famous brands, and one of the busiest airports, in the world. The city itself has a population of 498,715, while the metropolitan region is home to 6,089,815 people – the 9th largest metro area in the USA. Atlanta may boast an iconic skyline thanks to its Downtown, Midtown and Buckhead districts; but it is actually known as “a city within a forest” owing to its abundance of verdant foliage. It is estimated that almost 48% of the city’s area is covered in lush tree canopy.
Hawaii
Famous as the gateway to the Hawaiian islands and Pearl Harbor, Honolulu is Hawaii’s capital and largest city. It has a population of 343,302 residents, with 953,207 people living in the greater metro region. This makes it the largest major US city outside the contiguous United States, and the largest city in Oceania outside Australasia. As if pristine beaches, breathtaking nature and incredible weather weren’t enough to draw people to this coastal paradise, the city is also constantly ranked one of the safest and most livable cities in the United States.
Idaho
The severely underrated city of Boise (pronounced boy-see) – capital of the severely underrated state of Idaho (pronounced why the heck haven’t I been yet?) – has a population of 235,684 within city limits and 749,202 in the greater metro region. The city continually draws new inhabitants from places like Seattle, Portland and Los Angeles; at which point one has to wonder what makes it so great. Perhaps it’s the breathtaking mountain backdrop, the perfect blend of small town and big city vibes, the up and coming cultural and culinary scenes or the easy access to the great outdoors. Whatever it is, this is one seriously cool city worth taking note of.
Illinois
Springfield, the capital of Illinois, is famous as the city where President Abraham Lincoln served as lawyer and statesman before he became the 16th president of the United States. It has a fairly small population of 114,394, with 211,752 residents in the metro area. This makes Springfield the 6th largest city in the state.
In stark contrast is the massive, sprawling metropolis of Chicago, the largest city in Illinois with a population of 2,746,388. The metropolitan area, often called Chicagoland, was home to 9,618,502 people in the 2020 census; making it the 3rd largest in the entire United States and one of the 40 largest urban areas in the world. It should come as no surprise then that Chicago is also the largest city in the Midwest and the 2nd largest in the Great Lakes region, after Toronto.
Indiana
Indianapolis, or just Indy as the locals know it, is arguably best known for the world’s largest one-day-only sporting event: the Indianapolis 500. Because Indianapolis and Marion County (of which it is the seat) is a consolidated city-county, census figures work a tad bit differently than with some of the other cities on this list. Long story short, however, the portion considered as the consolidated city was home to 887,642 people in the 2020 census; while the greater metro region had a population of 2,111,040. This makes it the 33rd largest metro region in the USA. Thanks to highly developed and diversified business and manufacturing sectors, the greater Indianapolis region is considered the 29th largest economic region in the country.
Iowa
As the capital and most populous city of one of America’s most productive farming states, Des Moines is often thought of as just another rural town. In recent decades, though, the city has seen a number of big companies launch large operations here; and that’s not mentioning its burgeoning arts, culture and event scenes that continue to grow and even draw international visitors. The city itself has a population of 214,133 while the metro region is home to 699,292 people.
Kansas
Translating to “a good place to dig potatoes” in the native Kansa-Sage language, Topeka is the capital and 5th most populous city in the in state of Kansas (now you know). The city was laid out back in 1854 and is home to a population of 126,587 people today.
The largest city in Kansas is Wichita, with 397,532 people residing within city limits and 647,610 people living in the metro region. The city is famous as an aircraft production hub and for its rich Native American history. It is often affectionately referred to as “Cowtown”, owing to its position in the 19th century as a prominent destination for cowboys to drive their cattle to, in order to sell them in markets connected by railroad.
While Wichita is the largest metro region centred in Kansas exclusively; the state’s largest urban area is the Kansas side of the Greater Kansas City, MO-KS metro region, which has a population of just under 1 million people and includes cities like Kansas City (KS), Overland Park and Shawnee.
Kentucky
The home of Muhammad Ali, Kentucky Fried Chicken, no less than six Fortune 500 companies and the most prestigious horse-racing event in the United States: Louisville is a great city with so much to offer. Like Indianapolis, it is also part of a consolidated city-county government, home to 633,045 people in the city proper (when excluding some of the semi-autonomous towns in the county). The Louisville metro region has a population of 1,265,108, and includes five counties in the south of Indiana.
The capital of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, on the other hand, is a tiny city called Frankfort. It is home to only 28,602 people based on the 2020 census, which makes it the 4th smallest capital city in the USA.
Louisiana
Translating as “red stick” from French, Baton Rouge is the capital and 2nd largest city in the state of Louisiana. It has a population of 229,493 with 870,569 residents in the metro area. The Port of Greater Baton Rouge (we bet you didn’t know) is the furthest inland port on the Mississippi that can handle large, ocean-faring cargo ships; and is one of the ten largest ports in the United States based on tonnage shipped.
New Orleans, or NOLA as it is commonly known, is the largest city in Louisiana. It has a population of 383,997 while the Greater New Orleans metro region is home to 1,270,530 residents. The devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina wreaked havoc on the city in 2005, but The Big Easy has been steadily recovering and has seen major redevelopments since then.
Maine
Maine is mostly famous for its breathtaking scenery, quaint coastal towns and ultra-luxurious mansions occupied by the rich and famous. That’s why you’ve probably never heard of its capital, Augusta, until now. With a population of only 18,899 it is the 3rd smallest state capital in the USA and only the 9th most populous city in Maine.
The largest city in Maine, Portland, is not that massive either. It has a population of 68,408, but with 514,098 living in the the Greater Portland metro region. It is known as a haven for the arts, for its Old Port district and for its incredible foodie scene.
Fun fact: Portland, Maine, was the “original” Portland, named after an English isle in Dorset. Portland, Oregon, on the other hand, was named after Portland, Maine.
Maryland
Annapolis is one of those pivotal historical cities that played a major role in the establishment of the United States. Today it is still home to the US Naval Academy and St. John’s College, one of the oldest higher learning institutions in the Americas. Annapolis has a small population of 40,812.
Baltimore, the largest city in Maryland, has a population of 585,708 with 2,884,510 people in the metro region, making it the 30th largest city proper and 20th largest metro region in the United States. Thanks to its close proximity to Washington D.C., Baltimore is often included in the larger Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, which forms the 6th largest, and one of the most affluent, of the metro regions in the nation. It has a population of 6,385,162 people.
Massachusetts
The capital and most populous city of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Boston is another one of those great American cities that needs no introduction. It dates back all the way to 1630 and is renowned for some of the most famous events in the nation’s history. The city proper has a population of 675,647 while the metropolitan region is home to 4,941,632 residents – the 10th most populous metro in the US. The Greater Boston combined statistical area, which also includes cities like Providence, RI and Manchester, NH, is home to more than 8.46 million people and is the 6th largest urban agglomeration in the nation.
Just to clarify, a combined statistical area (or CSA), in US census terms, is made up of a combination of adjacent metropolitan regions. So, while the abovementioned Baltimore-Washington metropolitan statistical area (or MSA) is the 6th largest metropolitan region in the United States, the Greater Boston combined statistical area (or CSA) is the 6th largest CSA in the nation. Basically, Greater Boston is the 6th largest combined urban area in the USA.
Michigan
Everyone knows about Detroit, but did you know the capital of Michigan is a medium-sized city called Lansing? It is the 3rd largest city in Michigan with a population of 112,644. Of all the US state capitals, it is the only one that is not also the seat of the county in which it is situated.
Heading back to Motown: Detroit is the largest city in Michigan with a population of 639,111, while Metro Detroit is home to 4,392,041 people – the 14th largest metropolitan region in the USA. The city is notorious for its decades-long population decline and the eventual massive urban decay that followed. However, in recent years Detroit has, especially in the Downtown and Midtown areas, somewhat resurged; with large-scale gentrification projects breathing new life into the formerly devastated city. While some problems definitely do still persist, Detroit has been praised for its renaissance and is steadily on its way towards reclaiming its former prestige as an important international centre of culture, industry and design.
Minnesota
Saint Paul, the capital of the state of Minnesota, is famous for its historic districts, cold and snowy winters, and for it’s beaux-arts-style Cathedral of Saint Paul that overlooks the downtown area. It is the 2nd largest city in Minnesota, home to 311,527 people within city limits. Just across the Mississippi River from it lies the largest city in the state, Minneapolis, with 429,954 residents. Together the two cities anchor a seven-country metro region known as the Twin Cities, and is basically one huge city, though administered separately in their own rights.
The even larger Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington MN-WI metropolitan area, which includes 16 surrounding counties and their cities, is home home to 3,690,261 residents – making it the largest metro region in Minnesota and the 16th largest metro region in the United States. Apart from St. Paul’s charming neighborhoods and excellent universities; or the thriving art, foodie, music and business scenes in Minneapolis; the area is also home to an incredible park system, breathtaking nature and some of the most family-friendly neighbourhoods in the country. This metropolis is also home to Mall of America, the largest shopping mall in the United States, over in Bloomington.
Mississippi
Named in honour of General Andrew Jackson, who would later become the 7th US president, Jackson is the capital and most populous city in Mississippi. It had a population of 153,701 within city limits at the latest census, while the metropolitan area was home to 576,382 residents. Founded in 1821, the city has a long history that dates back to Civil War days. In the latter half of the 20th century, Jackson was the site of several important events in the Civil Rights Movement. The city has also had a significant influence on the musical genres of blues, jazz, gospel and soul.
Missouri
The trend of naming state capitals after US presidents continues in Missouri with Jefferson City, named in honour of Founding Father and 3rd US president, Thomas Jefferson. It has a small population of 43,228 and is only the 15th largest city in Missouri.
The largest metro region in the state, on the other hand, is Greater St. Louis; which straddles the Mississippi river and includes the surrounding urban areas in both Missouri and Illinois. It is home to more than 2.8 million people, while St. Louis proper is only home to 301,578 – making it the second largest city in the state.
Kansas City (or KCMO to differentiate it from neighbouring Kansas City, Kansas) is the largest city proper in Missouri, with a population of 508,090 people within city limits. Add the two Kansas Cities and their surrounding towns together and you get the Greater Kansas City, MO-KS metro region, the 31st largest metro region in the States with a population of 2,192,035. The city is renowned for its City Market, its fountains, its sports teams, its influence on jazz and for a generous serving of culture, cuisine, art and architecture.
Montana
Montana, or Big Sky Country, is nicknamed thusly not just because of it’s breathtaking natural scenery and crisp Rocky Mountain air; but probably also because its largest city, Billings, has a metropolitan population of only 184,167 (compared to 117,116 within city limits). Considering Montana is the 4th largest state by total area, that leaves a whole lot of open space. While Billings may be quite small in comparison to other largest-in-state urban centres, it has in recent decades seen some growth and currently serves as the main commercial hub of a very large, sparsely populated region of over 500,000 inhabitants.
Helena, the capital of Montana, started out as a gold rush camp and quickly grew into a very wealthy city. Today it is home to only 32,091 people, making it the 6th largest city in Montana, but the 5th smallest state capital in the nation.
Nebraska
With a population of 291,082 in the 2020 census, Lincoln is not only the state capital of Nebraska, but also its 2nd largest city. At 400 feet (or just under 122 meters), its most prominent landmark, the Nebraska State Capitol, is the 2nd tallest state capitol in the nation.
Nebraska’s largest city is Omaha; a city with a rich pioneer history and an even richer present, being home to no less than four Fortune 500 companies – including Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway. Omaha was home to 486,051 people in the 2020 census, while the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area (which includes eight counties in Nebraska and Iowa) had a population of 967,604. Turns out Nebraska isn’t all cornfields and football after all!
Nevada
You definitely guessed it: Nevada’s largest city is The Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas. Home to 641,903 inhabitants, it is the 26th-largest city proper in the USA. The greater Las Vegas Valley metro region, which is one of the most visited regions in the United States, has a population of 2,265,461 and is the 29th largest metro region in the nation. Here’s a fact you may not have known: the famous Las Vegas Strip is actually located in the unincorporated communities of Paradise and Winchester, which lie just south of the official Las Vegas city limits.
Nevada’s capital, Carson City, only has a population of 58,639, making it the 6th largest city in the state. It is located on the Nevada-California border, near breathtaking Lake Tahoe and just 30 miles (50 km) south of Reno.
New Hampshire
With a population of only 43,976, New Hampshire’s capital city of Concord may certainly be small; but it is the 3rd largest city in this beautiful New England state.
Just 16 miles (26 km) south lies Manchester, the largest city in New Hampshire with a population of 115,644. It anchors the Manchester-Nashua metro region that is home to 406,678 people; but thanks to its close proximity to the Massachusetts border, it is also frequently included in the Greater Boston region, as mentioned earlier. The city’s founder, Samuel Blodgett, envisioned a great industrial city and therefore named it after Manchester, England; which was the very first and best-known industrial city in the world at the time. While it may not have grown quite into the industrial powerhouse that Blodgett intended, it does frequently top the lists as one of the most affordable, liveable and business-friendly small cities in America.
New Jersey
New Jersey’s capital, Trenton, is home to a relatively small population of only 90,871. It dates back to at least 1719 and was the site of George Washington’s first military victory. The city also briefly served as the national capital of the United States in 1784. Traditionally, Trenton and its metro region was considered part of the way bigger Philadelphia metro region, but since the 2010 census it is considered part of Greater New York instead.
Also considered part of the New York metropolitan area is New Jersey’s largest urban region, anchored by its largest city, Newark. The city had a population of 311,549 in the most recent census, and is known as one of the most important air, rail and shipping hubs in the United States.
New Mexico
Known for its striking Pueblo and Spanish colonial architecture, Santa Fe is the capital and 4th largest city in New Mexico, home to a population of 87,505 people. It is often hailed as one of the foremost cities for art and culture in the Southwest; with many acclaimed installations, galleries, museums and performance venues.
New Mexico’s largest city, Albuquerque, may be most famous as the site of the hit television series, Breaking Bad; but in real life it is a fairly prosperous city that hosts a decent concentration of high-tech companies and research institutions. It also hosts the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the largest hot air balloon event in the world. In the 2020 census, Albuquerque had a population of 564,559 in the city proper; while the metro region was home to 916,528 residents.
New York
Yes, that’s right: New York City may be the capital of the world, but the capital of New York State is Albany. Home to a population of 99,224 within city limits, Albany is not a massive city in and of itself. However, it anchors what is known as the Capital District of New York State, which is home to 1,170,483 residents and is therefore the 3rd largest metro region in the state. Albany is known for its rich history as well as its cultural, educational and architectural attractions – including the Romanesque Revivalist-style New York State Capitol.
The largest city in the state, as well as the entire USA, is undoubtedly New York City, The Big Apple, The City That Never Sleeps. New York has a massive population of 8,804,190 people living within city limits; while the New York metropolitan area, the largest metro region in the world by land mass, was home to a staggering 20,140,470 residents in the 2020 census. Unsurprisingly, New York has the highest number of foreign-born residents of any city in the world, with more than an estimated 800 languages being spoken in the metro region – also potentially making it the most linguistically diverse city on the planet.
North Carolina
Many people haven’t even heard of Charlotte, North Carolina before; but did you know it is the 2nd largest banking centre in the entire United States!? With a population of 874,579 it is the most populous city in North Carolina and the 16th largest city proper in the nation. The Charlotte metropolitan area, which is one of the fastest-growing metros in the country, is home to 2,660,329 residents, making it the 23rd largest in the USA.
The capital of North Carolina is Raleigh, home to 467,665 people within city limits and 1,413,982 in the greater metro region. It is the principal city in an area known as the Research Triangle, which includes the cities of Durham, Chapel Hill and Cary; an area that is home to world-class universities and numerous high-tech companies. Both Raleigh and Charlotte are also famous for their sports teams and favourable economic climates.
North Dakota
North Dakota’s capital and 2nd largest city, Bismarck, had a 2020 population of 73,622. Despite it’s minute size, it has been rated as one of the top 10 fastest-growing small cities in the USA by Forbes magazine.
Fargo is probably best known for the Academy Award-winning film, Fargo (1996) – which wasn’t actually set in Fargo, but mostly rural Minnesota. The subsequent, eponymous television series that debuted in 2014 did actually feature the city of Fargo and was the setting for the first season, which has made the city somewhat famous. Fargo’s population was 125,990 in the 2020 census, the largest in North Dakota, while the metropolitan region was home to 248,591 people.
Ohio
With a population of 905,748, the incredibly cool city of Columbus is the largest city in the great state of Ohio, and the 2nd largest city proper in the Midwest, after Chicago. Named in honour of Italian explorer, Christopher Columbus, Ohio’s capital is famous for its successful redevelopment projects and as a very well-rounded city with many offerings in terms of arts, culture, sports, cuisine, education, business and entertainment.
While the Columbus metro area is home to 2,138,926 people – the 32nd largest metro region in the USA and the largest contained exclusively within Ohio; Greater Cincinnati, which includes surrounding counties in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana, is home to 2,256,884 residents, making it the largest metro region anchored in the state.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma City, officially the “City of Oklahoma City”, is home to 681,054 people and has a population of 1,425,695 in the greater metro area. OKC, as it is often called, may be home to one of the largest livestock markets in the world, but it is also a thoroughly modern city with large oil, natural gas and petroleum-related industries. It is home to many renowned museums and theaters, while the canalled Bricktown neighbourhood features some impressive shopping, trendy restaurants and a pulsing nightlife.
Oregon
Founded in 1842, Salem is the capital and 2nd largest city of the incredibly beautiful state of Oregon. It had a population of 175,535 in the 2020 US census, with a metro region of 433,353. The first two capitol buildings in Salem were destroyed by fire in 1855 and 1935 respectively, while the current iteration was constructed in 1936 and again expanded in 1977.
Oregon’s largest city is the trendy hipster mecca of Portland, also known as the City of Roses. In the early 20th century, Portland was notorious as one of the most dangerous port cities in the world. Today, it is famous for its liberal counter-culture; excellent artistic, music and culinary scenes; spectacular parks and nearby natural attractions. As per the latest US Census, a total of 652,503 residents call Portland proper home, while the metro region is home to 2,511,612 people.
Pennsylvania
The Declaration of Independence, the Liberty Bell, Benjamin Franklin and the Founding Fathers – few cities in the United States can compete with Philadelphia when it comes to sheer historical importance and influential heritage. It was the home of the first library, stock exchange, hospital, zoo and business school in the US; and is today still one of the major cultural, economic, educational, culinary and political centres in the country. Philadelphia is home to 1,603,797 people, the largest city in Pennsylvania and the 6th largest city in the United States by population. Greater Philadelphia (which includes counties in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland; commonly referred to as the Delaware Valley) is the 7th largest metro region in the USA as of 2020, with a population of 6,245,051 in the most recent census.
Harrisburg, the quaint capital of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, is only home to 50,099 residents, on the other hand, but has a metro region with a population of 591,712.
Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s capital city of Providence is one of the oldest cities in the United States, dating back to 1636. It was one of the first industrialised cities in the nation and was famous for its world-renowned textile industry. Today the city has a more diversified economy and is one of the main commercial hubs in the New England region. Providence had a population of 190,934 in the 2020 census, with 1,604,291 in the greater metropolitan region – the 38th largest in the USA. It is also commonly listed as part of the Greater Boston CSA.
South Carolina
With a population of 136,632 the city of Columbia is not only the capital of, but also the 2nd largest city in, South Carolina. It is home to the renowned University of South Carolina and is also known as the site of the Fort Jackson military training installation – the largest of its kind in the United States. While the largest metro region in South Carolina is the Greenville-Anderson metropolitan area, home to 928,528 residents; Columbia anchors the state’s 2nd largest metro region with a population of 829,470. Fun fact: ‘Columbia’, derived from the surname of Christopher Columbus, is the female poetic personification of the United States; a name which has been applied to many places and institutions – the most famous being the District of Columbia.
From its status as a major slave trading port in the 17th century to its current fame as one of the South’s highest-rated tourist destinations; Charleston has a long, rich and oftentimes very dark history. It dates back to 1670 and was actually the 5th largest city in North America by 1680. Today the city is only the 200th largest in the USA, but the largest city proper in South Carolina, with a population of 150,277. It is renowned for its beautiful old town, architecture, rich cultural blend, art, theater, cuisine and fashion venues.
South Dakota
South Dakota may be famous as the home of Mount Rushmore, but did you know its capital city, Pierre, is the 2nd least populated state capital in the United States? Ironically, its population of only 14,091 still makes it the 9th largest city in the state.
The largest city in South Dakota, Sioux Falls, doesn’t have a massive population either; being home to only 192,517 residents in the 2020 census. Sioux Falls is – perhaps surprisingly for a city with a record low temperature of -42°F (-41°C) – consistently ranked one of the healthiest cities in the United States. The city has comparatively low obesity rates and very high rates of residents frequently leading healthy lifestyles and receiving health check-ups. If they can beat the cold to eat right and get plenty of exercise, we all can!
Tennessee
Famed for its thriving music industry, reputable universities, incredible foodie scene and a seemingly never-ending list of cultural and entertainment attractions; Nashville is the capital and largest city of the beautiful state of Tennessee. Another consolidated city-county municipality, Nashville was home to 715,884 people in the 2020 census, making it the 21st largest city proper in the United States. It’s metro region was home to 1,989,519 on the other hand, the 36th largest in the nation.
Texas
As the adage goes, “everything is bigger in Texas”, and the same rings true for their cities. The largest urban area in Texas is the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro region – the 4th largest in the nation and home to a staggering 7,637,387 people.
In close second place is the Greater Houston metro region, the 5th largest metro in the US with a population of 7,122,240. Houston city proper is home to 2,304,580 people though, making it the largest individual city in Texas and the 4th largest city proper in the country.
The Texan capital of Austin is the 4th largest city in the state and the 11th largest in the Union. Home to 961,855 people, it is also the 2nd most populous state capital after Phoenix, AZ, and the most southerly state capital in the contiguous USA. Austin is the epicentre of the greater Austin-Round Rock metro region, which has a population of 2,283,371 – the 28th largest in the nation.
Utah
What started as a Mormon pioneer settlement in 1847 has grown into a sprawling, lively and diverse city that rightly earns it the nickname ‘Crossroads of the West’. Salt Lake City is the largest and most populous city in Utah, home to 199,723 people within city limits. While that may sound rather small, the metropolitan area is home to a population of 1,257,936. The city also forms the cornerstone of a larger urban area that stretches for around 120 miles (or 190 km) along the Wasatch Front; which includes the urban regions around Ogden and Provo, and has a combined population of 2,606,548. This region makes up the 22nd largest combined statistical area (CSA) in the United States.
Vermont
Have you ever even heard of Montpelier? Neither have we until now! With a teeny, tiny population of only 7,477 it is the least populated capital city in the entire United States. However, thanks to the presence of government and educational institutions, the daytime population almost triples to over 21,000 during weekdays. Fun fact: At the time of writing this article, Montpelier was the only US capital that did not have a single McDonald’s restaurant.
Just a stone’s throw away is the most populous city in Vermont: Burlington. Where Montpelier was the least populous capital city in the US, Burlington is the least populous of any state’s most populous city. It has 42,545 residents within city limits, but does form the centre of a metro region of 214,796 people. Apart from its quaint neighbourhoods and its impressive, pedestrian Church Street Marketplace; Burlington is also known as the first city in the United States to completely run on renewable energy sources.
Virginia
With a population of 226,610, Richmond is the capital of and 4th largest city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. During its long and complicated history it has served as the site of a prominent Powhatan village, as the capital of the Colony of Virginia and even as the capital of the Confederacy. Today the city overall is home to a flourishing, diverse economy; with many notable government, law and finance institutions to boot. Richmond also boasts no less than six Fortune 500 companies in its metro region.
Virginia’s most populous city, however, is the popular resort of Virginia Beach. Though more suburban in nature, it is home to 459,470 residents. It is also home to an almost endless stretch of golden, sandy beach that holds the Guinness World Record for the “longest pleasure beach in the world”. Along with the cities of Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, as well as a handful of other smaller cities and towns; Virginia Beach forms the largest core of the Hampton Roads metro region, home to 1,799,674 people, the 37th largest in the US.
Virginia’s largest metro region, on the other hand, is comprised of several counties and independent cities in the north, including Arlington and Alexandria. This region, known as Northern Virginia, is home to 3,197,076 people and is the most populous portion of the greater Washington D.C. metropolitan area.
Washington
Located at the southern end of Puget Sound, just 60 miles (100km) southwest of Seattle, is Olympia, the capital of Washington state. Apart from its sprawling capitol complex and it’s wide array of parks, it is also known as a regional centre for the arts. Olympia had a population of 55,605 in the most recent US census.
With an instantly recognisable skyline, framed by Mount Rainier, and a beautiful location between Puget Sound and Lake Washington; Seattle is one of the most iconic cities in the United States. Apart from its beautiful scenery, the city is also known for its rich Native American heritage, it’s culinary experiences, and as the birthplace of numerous world-famous musicians and modern musical movements. With a population of 737,015 it is the 18th largest city in the US, as well as the largest city in the Pacific Northwest. The Seattle metropolitan region, which includes the cities of Bellevue, Redmond and Tacoma, is home to 4,018,762 people, making it the 15th largest metro region and the northernmost major urban centre in the United States.
West Virginia
Home to a population of only 48,864, Charleston is the capital of and largest city in West Virginia; a state much more renowned for its breathtaking mountains, forests and waterfalls than for its big cities. The city boasts a picturesque location at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha rivers; with incredible shopping, dining and culinary offerings on the historical Capitol Street. Cultural offerings include the West Virginia State Museum and the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences. Oh, and let’s not forget its close proximity to some of the best outdoors scenery and activities this side of the Mississippi!
Wisconsin
Named after Founding Father and 4th president of the United States, James Madison; the capital of Wisconsin is one of the most scenic state capitals in the nation. Nestled on an isthmus (a narrow strip of land connecting two larger areas of land, surrounded by bodies of water) between the Mendota and Monona lakes; Madison boasts an enviable blend of city life, arts, culture and the great outdoors. With a population of 269,840 it is the 2nd largest city in Wisconsin, with a decent-sized metro region that is home to 680,796 people.
Known for its strikingly modern art museum, as the home of Harley-Davidson, and as a hub for big-name and craft breweries alike; Milwaukee is the largest and most populous city in Wisconsin. Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, it was home to 577,222 residents in the last census. The Milwaukee metro region has a population of 1,574,731, making it the 4th largest metro area in the Midwest.
Wyoming
With a total population of only 576,851, Wyoming is the least populated of all the US states. It should then come as no surprise that Cheyenne (pronounced shy-an or shy-en), it’s capital and largest city, is only home to 65,132 residents. While most people come to Wyoming to visit the Yellowstone or Grand Teton National Parks, Cheyenne itself has some interesting attractions like the beautifully landscaped Cheyenne Botanic Gardens or the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum. Thanks to its location near the southeast corner of the state, it is one of the least centrally located state capitals in the US.
And there you have it – the capital, largest city and largest metro region in each state! How many of these did you already know, and how many were complete surprises?
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