Top twenty largest cities in North America based on land size
By CitiView Team
2 March 2026
Last Updated:
New York Times Square by Oto Godfrey
North America is a continent of immense contrasts and captivating allure, a vibrant tapestry woven from soaring mountain ranges, endless plains, tropical beaches, and some of the world's most dynamic cities. It's a land where ancient history collides with futuristic innovation, and natural wonders—from the vast wilderness of Canada to the sun-drenched coasts of Mexico and the United States—beckon adventurers and dreamers alike.
From the bustling, 24/7 energy of global metropolises to serene natural landscapes that remain largely untouched, North America buzzes with a unique rhythm. It's a land of rich cultural diversity and boundless opportunity, constantly reinventing itself and offering a wealth of experiences for every visitor and resident.
Top five largest cities in North America
Mexico City
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Houston, Texas
Phoenix, Arizona
Butte, Montana
The following list highlights 20 major North American cities based on the land area within their official municipal boundaries. These cities represent diverse economic and cultural hubs across the U.S., Mexico, and Cuba, illustrating the varied approaches to urban planning and geographic expansion across the continent.
Mexico City, Mexico
Covering approximately 573 square miles (1,495 km²), it is one of the world's largest and most densely populated urban areas, with a metropolitan population of around 22 million people. The capital of Mexico and a major political, economic, and cultural center, it was built on the ruins of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, and faces challenges like air pollution and seismic activity due to its location in a high-altitude valley.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, U.S.
Spanning around 607 square miles, the capital of Oklahoma is notable for its history rooted in the 1889 Land Run and its economy historically based on oil, natural gas, and livestock. It has diversified into aviation, aerospace, and biotechnology and is home to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and the Oklahoma City National Memorial.
Houston, Texas, U.S.
The city proper covers nearly 600 square miles (or up to 665 sq mi depending on the source) and is the fourth most populous city in the U.S. Known as "Space City," it is internationally recognized for its energy (oil and natural gas) and aeronautics industries, and is home to the Texas Medical Center, the world's largest healthcare complex.
Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.
With over 516 square miles of land area, Phoenix is the capital and largest city of Arizona. It is known for its hot desert climate, the Sonoran Desert landscape, and a rapidly growing economy focused on technology, real estate, and tourism.
Butte, Montana, U.S.
Unusually large in municipal area at 716 square miles (much of it sparsely populated), Butte has a rich history as a booming mining town, once one of the largest copper producers in the world. Its past is preserved in its historic architecture and landmarks related to its mining heritage.
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
The city proper covers 498.1 square miles, but its wider metropolitan area is one of the largest and most influential urban agglomerations in the U.S. It's a global center for the entertainment industry (Hollywood), culture, media, fashion, and international trade.
San Antonio, Texas, U.S.
The city boundary spans 498 square miles. San Antonio is famous for its rich colonial history, including the Alamo mission, and its vibrant culture, exemplified by the popular River Walk, making tourism a key industry.
Nashville, Tennessee, U.S.
Encompassing 473.1 square miles, Nashville is known as the "Music City" and is the heart of the country music industry. It is also the capital of Tennessee and has a growing economy in healthcare, finance, and education.
Corpus Christi, Texas, U.S.
Covering 460.2 square miles, this coastal city is a major hub for the oil and gas industry and also has a large port. Tourism is significant, with attractions including Gulf Coast beaches and the USS Lexington museum.
Havana, Cuba
The city proper spans 728.3 km² (approx. 281 sq mi). As Cuba's capital, it is the country's main port and commercial center, renowned for its rich history, colonial architecture in Old Havana (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and a vibrant culture.
Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.
The municipality has a land area of 361.5 square miles. The state capital is best known for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the famous Indy 500 race, and its economy is diverse, including sectors like manufacturing, logistics, and life sciences.
Fort Worth, Texas, U.S.
Covering 355.8 square miles, Fort Worth maintains a strong Western heritage, with a famous stockyard district. It is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and has a growing economy with cultural attractions like its renowned museum district.
Dallas, Texas, U.S.
The city proper is 342 square miles, with the broader metroplex being a major economic powerhouse. It is a hub for finance, technology, telecommunications, and logistics, known for its modern skyline, diverse culture, and sports teams.
Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.
Expands over 341.5 square miles, following a city-county merger. It is most famous as the home of the Kentucky Derby, the first leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, and its economy includes a large presence in healthcare and logistics (UPS air hub).
Austin, Texas, U.S.
Spans 326.4 square miles. Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," it has a vibrant and progressive culture. It's also a major center for technology and research, home to the flagship campus of the University of Texas.
San Diego, California, U.S.
The municipal area is 326.1 square miles. Located on the Pacific coast, it's famous for its mild climate, extensive beaches, the large natural deep-water harbor supporting a significant U.S. Navy presence, and popular attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park.
Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
Covers 314.7 square miles and is famous for its rich jazz heritage, the Country Club Plaza shopping district, and, perhaps most notably, its unique style of barbecue. Its economy is diversified, with strengths in agriculture, manufacturing, and tech.
New York City, New York, U.S.
While its land area of 300.5 square miles is smaller than many others on this list, NYC is North America's most populous and influential city. A global hub for finance, culture, media, and diplomacy, it comprises five boroughs (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island) and is famous for iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square.
Memphis, Tennessee, U.S.
The city proper is 296.2 square miles. Located on the Mississippi River, Memphis is a historically significant city in music history (the birthplace of blues and the cradle of rock 'n' roll) and the American Civil Rights Movement. It is home to Graceland, the former residence of Elvis Presley.
Lexington, Kentucky, U.S.
Spans 283.9 square miles. Often referred to as the "Horse Capital of the World," it is in the heart of the state's Bluegrass region. The economy is heavily centered around the horse industry, higher education (University of Kentucky), and manufacturing.