Australia is often perceived as a large country. A flight from Sydney to Perth, spanning the east to west coast, rivals the distance between New York and Los Angeles. However, just how big is the US compared to Australia? The difference is significant. The United States boasts a land area of roughly 9.834 million square kilometers, while Australia measures approximately 7.692 million square kilometers. This makes the US considerably larger than Australia. In fact, the US is almost 30% bigger.
To visualize this disparity, imagine fitting Australia within the contiguous United States. You could comfortably place Australia within the US and still have substantial space remaining. This size difference impacts various aspects, from population distribution to infrastructure and travel logistics.
While Australia’s landmass might seem vast, its population is surprisingly small compared to the US. Australia’s population hovers around 27 million, a figure comparable to the population of Texas, a single US state with around 30 million residents. The US, in contrast, boasts a population exceeding 330 million.
This population disparity reflects in the countries’ infrastructure. The US possesses a vastly more extensive transportation network, facilitating frequent flights, trains, and buses between cities. Australia’s less dense population results in fewer and sometimes less frequent connections between destinations. This necessitates meticulous planning for Australian travel, as missing a once-daily ferry or flight can significantly disrupt an itinerary.
Understanding the size difference between the US and Australia and its implications is crucial for planning a successful trip Down Under. While Australia offers breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences, its vastness and less developed infrastructure compared to the US demand careful consideration of travel times and connections. Proper planning ensures a seamless and enjoyable exploration of this remarkable continent.
