A city’s population often goes hand in hand with its development and economic growth. Some of the largest cities in the United States are also the most populated. This article will explore the 10 most populated cities in the U.S., along with key facts and figures about each town. From median household income to estimated home values, we will delve into the data that helps us understand the affordability and desirability of these cities.
1. New York City
- Population: 8.5 million
- Population Change Since 2023: -3.8%
- Median Age: 38.1 years
- Median Household Income: $70,663
- Median Value of Owner-Occupied Housing Units: $685,700
New York City, with its iconic nickname “The Big Apple,” is the most populated city in the United States. Known for its vibrant energy and bustling streets, New York City offers many attractions, including the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, Broadway, and Times Square.
2. Los Angeles
- Population: 3.9 million
- Population Change Since 2023: -1%
- Median Age: 37 years
- Median Household Income: $69,778
- Median Value of Owner-Occupied Housing Units: $812,800
Los Angeles, often referred to as L.A. or the City of Angels, is the second most populated city in the U.S. This vibrant city is synonymous with the entertainment industry and is home to Hollywood, Griffith Observatory, and Sunset Boulevard.
3. Chicago
- Population: 2.7 million
- Population Change Since 2023: -1.8%
- Median Age: 35.8 years
- Median Household Income: $65,781
- Median Value of Owner-Occupied Housing Units: $297,300
Chicago, also known as the Windy City, is the third most populated city in the United States. With its stunning skyline and rich cultural heritage, Chicago offers attractions such as Millennium Park, Willis Tower, and Navy Pier.
4. Houston
- Population: 2.3 million
- Population Change Since 2023: -0.6%
- Median Age: 33.7 years
- Median Household Income: $56,019
- Median Value of Owner-Occupied Housing Units: $200,700
Houston, often called Space City, is the fourth most populated city in the U.S. Home to NASA’s Space Center Houston, this city also offers attractions like Hermann Park and the Houston Zoo.
5. Phoenix
- Population: 1.6 million
- Population Change Since 2023: +1%
- Median Age: 34.5 years
- Median Household Income: $64,927
- Median Value of Owner-Occupied Housing Units: $352,600
Phoenix, located in the Valley of the Sun, is the fifth most populated city in the United States. With its warm climate and stunning desert landscapes, Phoenix attracts visitors to attractions such as the Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Park, and South Mountain Park/Preserve.
6. Philadelphia
- Population: 1.6 million
- Population Change Since 2023: -1.7%
- Median Age: 35.2 years
- Median Household Income: $52,649
- Median Value of Owner-Occupied Housing Units: $220,700
Philadelphia, also known as Philly or the City of Brotherly Love, is the sixth most populated city in the U.S. As the birthplace of America, Philadelphia offers historical attractions like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
7. San Antonio
- Population: 1.5 million
- Population Change Since 2023: +1.2%
- Median Age: 33.9 years
- Median Household Income: $55,084
- Median Value of Owner-Occupied Housing Units: $167,700
San Antonio, the Alamo City, is the seventh most populated city in the United States. With its rich history and vibrant culture, San Antonio is home to attractions such as the Alamo, San Antonio River Walk, and San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.
8. San Diego
- Population: 1.4 million
- Population Change Since 2023: -0.3%
- Median Age: 35.9 years
- Median Household Income: $89,457
- Median Value of Owner-Occupied Housing Units: $768,800
San Diego, known as America’s Finest City, is the eighth most populated city in the U.S. With its beautiful beaches and thriving tech industry, San Diego offers attractions like Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and the USS Midway Museum.
9. Dallas
- Population: 1.3 million
- Population Change Since 2023: -1.2%
- Median Age: 33.7 years
- Median Household Income: $58,231
- Median Value of Owner-Occupied Housing Units: $267,600
Dallas, often called the Big D, is the ninth most populated city in the United States. This vibrant city offers attractions such as the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Klyde Warren Park, and the Dallas World Aquarium.
10. San Jose
- Population: 1 million
- Population Change Since 2023: -3%
- Median Age: 38.4 years
- Median Household Income: $125,075
- Median Value of Owner-Occupied Housing Units: $1,119,500
San Jose, also known as the Capital of Silicon Valley, is the tenth most populated city in the U.S. With its thriving tech industry, San Jose offers attractions like the San José Museum of Art, California’s Great America, and the Computer History Museum.
Recent Demographic Trends in U.S. Cities
In recent years, there have been notable changes in demographics and migration trends in large American cities. The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, has led to a work-from-home culture that has allowed city residents to move to the suburbs and beyond without requiring daily commutes. Many tech companies have embraced remote work policies, even as vaccination rates have increased and the severity of COVID-19 has decreased. Other companies are adopting hybrid models that combine remote work with some in-office time.
As a result of these shifts, cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago have experienced modest declines in population since 2020, after years of steady growth. On the other hand, more affordable cities in warmer Sun Belt climates, such as Phoenix, San Antonio, Jacksonville, and Fort Worth, have continued to see population growth.
Conclusion
A city’s population indicates its economic strength and growth, affecting its desirability and affordability. While cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Diego may have high populations, their cost of living can be significantly higher compared to more affordable cities like Houston, Phoenix, San Antonio, and Dallas. Each town on this list offers unique attractions and opportunities, making them diverse and vibrant living places.
