Is London Bigger Than New York?

By Alice Nichols

When it comes to comparing cities, one of the most common questions people ask is whether London or New York is bigger. At first glance, it may seem like a simple question, but the answer is not as straightforward as you might think.

Population

First and foremost, when we talk about the size of a city, we usually mean its population. In this regard, both London and New York are massive metropolises. According to the latest estimates from the United Nations, London’s population was around 8.9 million in 2019 while New York had a population of approximately 8.4 million in the same year.

So, is London bigger than New York? The answer depends on how you define “bigger.” If you’re talking strictly about population size, then London has a larger population than New York.

Land Area

However, if you’re talking about land area, then things get a bit more complicated. Greater London covers an area of around 1,572 square kilometers (607 square miles), making it one of the largest metropolitan areas in Europe by land area. In contrast, Greater New York covers an area of around 8,683 square kilometers (3,345 square miles), making it one of the largest metropolitan areas in North America by land area.

So if we’re talking about land area alone, then New York is definitely bigger than London.

Density

Another factor to consider when comparing cities is population density. This refers to how many people are living in a given area of land. Higher population density can often lead to issues such as traffic congestion and overcrowding.

When it comes to population density, both London and New York are densely populated cities. However, due to its smaller land area and higher population size compared to New York City, London has a higher population density.

Conclusion

So, is London bigger than New York? The answer depends on how you define “bigger.”

If you’re talking about population size alone, then London is bigger than New York. However, if you’re considering land area, then New York is undoubtedly bigger.

It’s also worth noting that both cities are massive in terms of their cultural and economic significance. Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of New York or the history and charm of London, both cities have a lot to offer.