Chicago, spanning 234 square miles, is a sprawling metropolis. But how does its size stack up against other global giants, particularly London? Let’s compare Chicago to several major cities to get a clearer perspective.
Chicago vs. Other Major Cities: A Size Comparison
Comparing Chicago’s footprint with other cities helps visualize its scale. Here’s how it measures up against various urban areas:
Chicago vs. Milwaukee
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, covers 97 square miles. When compared to Chicago, Milwaukee appears significantly smaller, almost like a suburb.
Chicago vs. New York City
New York City dwarfs Chicago with a sprawling 469 square miles. Even Brooklyn alone boasts a population nearing Chicago’s total, highlighting the significant size difference.
Chicago vs. Boston
Boston’s official area is 89 square miles, but nearly half of that is water. Its land area is a mere 48 square miles, roughly one-fifth the size of Chicago.
Chicago vs. Los Angeles
Los Angeles more than doubles Chicago’s size at 503 square miles. However, LA’s population density is considerably lower.
Chicago vs. San Francisco
Including the bay, San Francisco’s area is comparable to Chicago’s. However, its landmass is only 46.8 square miles, significantly smaller than the Windy City.
Chicago vs. London: A Tale of Two Cities
This is where the key comparison lies. London’s expansive 671 square miles makes Chicago look minuscule in comparison, almost like a small slice of a much larger pie. Greater London’s population of nearly 10 million further emphasizes the difference in scale.
Chicago vs. Paris
Paris is compact, covering only 40 square miles. Yet, it houses over 2.2 million people, showcasing a high population density.
Chicago vs. Beijing
Beijing’s vast 6,336 square miles makes Chicago seem insignificant. China boasts over 30 municipalities with larger populations than Chicago, further highlighting the sheer scale of some global cities.
Conclusion: Chicago’s Size in Perspective
While Chicago is undoubtedly a large city within the United States, its size pales in comparison to global metropolises like London and Beijing. London, in particular, is significantly larger than Chicago in both area and population. This comparison provides a valuable perspective on the relative scale of different urban areas worldwide.
