Is Jacksonville the Largest City in the U.S. Area? [2024]

Have you ever wondered if Jacksonville, Florida is the largest city in the United States by area? Well, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll dive deep into the topic and provide you with all the information you need to know. So, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Quick Answer

Yes, Jacksonville is the largest city in the United States by land area. It covers a total area of 918 square miles, making it the largest city in the contiguous United States. However, it’s important to note that when considering the population, Jacksonville is not the largest city in the U.S.

Quick Tips and Facts

  • Jacksonville, Florida is the largest city in the United States by land area.
  • The city covers a total area of 918 square miles.
  • Jacksonville is not the largest city in the U.S. when considering population.
  • The city is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and thriving economy.

Background and History

a bridge over a river with a city in the background

To understand why Jacksonville is the largest city in the United States by land area, let’s take a brief look at its background and history. Jacksonville is located in northeastern Florida and is the county seat of Duval County. The city was established in 1822 and was named after William Pope Duval, the first Governor of Florida Territory.

In 1968, the government of Duval County was consolidated with the government of the city of Jacksonville, making it the largest city by land area in the United States. This consolidation allowed for more efficient governance and better utilization of resources.

Geography and Land Area

When it comes to geography and land area, Jacksonville is truly impressive. The city covers a total area of 918 square miles, with 762 square miles of land and 156 square miles of water. This vast land area includes a diverse range of landscapes, from beautiful beaches to marshes and forests.

The St. Johns River, one of the longest rivers in Florida, flows through Jacksonville, adding to its natural beauty. The city is also home to the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, which preserves the natural and cultural heritage of the area.

Population and Demographics

While Jacksonville is the largest city in the United States by land area, it is not the largest city in terms of population. As of the 2020 census, the population of Jacksonville was 995,567. However, it’s worth noting that the population of the entire Jacksonville metropolitan area is much larger, with over 1.5 million residents.

In terms of demographics, Jacksonville is a diverse city. According to the 2020 census, the racial composition of the city was 49.42% White, 28.76% Black or African American, 11.32% Hispanic or Latino, and other races. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant multicultural communities.

Comparison with Other Cities

To put Jacksonville’s land area into perspective, let’s compare it with other cities in the United States. Here’s a comparison of Jacksonville’s land area with some other major cities:

City Land Area (square miles)
Jacksonville 918
Los Angeles 468.7
New York City 302.6
Houston 599.6
Phoenix 517.6

As you can see, Jacksonville’s land area is significantly larger than other major cities in the United States. This vast expanse of land allows for plenty of outdoor recreational activities and contributes to the city’s unique charm.

Government and Politics

The government of Jacksonville operates under a consolidated city-county structure. This means that the city and county governments have been merged into one entity, providing more efficient governance and services to the residents.

The city is governed by a mayor and a city council, which is responsible for making decisions and implementing policies. Jacksonville is also divided into several districts, each represented by a council member.

In terms of politics, Jacksonville has a diverse political landscape. The city has a mix of Democratic, Republican, and Independent voters. Democrats comprise 38.96% of registered voters, Republicans 35.66%, and Independents 22.95%.

Education and Schools

Jacksonville is home to a wide range of educational institutions, including public and private schools, colleges, and universities. The city’s public school system is operated by the Duval County Public Schools, which is one of the largest school districts in Florida.

In addition to K-12 education, Jacksonville is also known for its higher education institutions. Some of the notable universities and colleges in the city include the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, and Florida State College at Jacksonville.

Transportation and Infrastructure

When it comes to transportation, Jacksonville offers a variety of options for residents and visitors. The city is served by the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), which provides public transportation services including buses, trolleys, and a Skyway monorail system.

Jacksonville is well-connected to the rest of the country through its extensive highway network. Major highways in the area include I-10, I-95, I-295, US 1, and US 17, among others. The city is also served by several airports, including Cecil Airport, Herlong Recreational Airport, Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport, and Jacksonville International Airport.

Communities and Neighborhoods

Jacksonville is a city of diverse communities and neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. From historic districts to modern developments, there’s something for everyone in Jacksonville.

Some of the notable neighborhoods in the city include Riverside, Avondale, San Marco, and Downtown Jacksonville. These neighborhoods offer a mix of residential, commercial, and cultural attractions, making them popular destinations for residents and visitors alike.

FAQ

a large body of water with a city in the background

Is Jacksonville the largest city in the United States?

Yes, Jacksonville is the largest city in the United States by land area. It covers a total area of 918 square miles.

Read more about “Where Does Jacksonville Rank in Size? …”

What’s the largest city in the U.S. by area?

Jacksonville, Florida is the largest city in the United States by land area.

Which is larger, Miami or Jacksonville?

In terms of land area, Jacksonville is larger than Miami. However, when considering population, Miami is larger than Jacksonville.

Read more about “Why is Jacksonville the Largest City in the US? …”

How big is Jacksonville compared to other cities?

Jacksonville is significantly larger than many other major cities in the United States in terms of land area. It covers 918 square miles, making it one of the largest cities in the country.

Read more about “… How Big is Jacksonville, Florida? Exploring the Bold and Beautiful River City”

Conclusion

landscape photography of cityscape

In conclusion, Jacksonville, Florida is indeed the largest city in the United States by land area. With its vast expanse of 918 square miles, the city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant communities, and a thriving economy. While it may not be the largest city in terms of population, Jacksonville’s impressive land area sets it apart from other cities. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there’s no shortage of things to explore and enjoy in this expansive city.

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