What City Has the Most Land Area? [2024]

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Have you ever wondered which city in the world covers the largest area? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we will explore the city with the most land area and delve into its fascinating history and unique features. Get ready to be amazed by the sheer size of this incredible city!

Table of Contents

Quick Answer

The city with the most land area in the United States is Sitka, Alaska, covering a whopping 2,870 square miles. This picturesque city is the largest settlement in southeast Alaska and is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. If you’re looking for a place to explore vast wilderness and immerse yourself in Alaskan culture, Sitka is the perfect destination.

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Quick Tips and Facts

  • Sitka, Alaska covers 2,870 square miles, making it the largest city by land area in the United States.
  • Sitka is the only city in southeast Alaska that faces the Pacific Ocean.
  • The city was initially inhabited by the Tlingit Indians and later explored by a Russian expedition in 1741.
  • Sitka was founded as Novo Arkhangelsk in 1799 and served as the territorial capital until 1906.
  • The city played a significant role in World War II and is now a regional healthcare center.

Background

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Now that we know the city with the most land area in the United States, let’s dive into its fascinating history and explore what makes it such a unique and captivating place. Sitka, Alaska, is a city that combines breathtaking natural landscapes with a rich cultural heritage.

Sitka is located on Baranof Island, one of the largest islands in the Alexander Archipelago in southeast Alaska. The city is surrounded by stunning mountains, lush forests, and pristine waters, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.

1. The Largest US City by Land Area

Sitka, Alaska, takes the crown as the largest city by land area in the United States. Spanning an impressive 2,870 square miles, Sitka offers a vast expanse of wilderness to explore. Whether you’re interested in hiking through ancient forests, kayaking along rugged coastlines, or observing wildlife in their natural habitat, Sitka has it all.

Sitka is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its rich history. The city was initially inhabited by the Tlingit Indians, who had a thriving community in the area for thousands of years. In 1741, a Russian expedition led by Alexei Chirikov and Vitus Bering arrived in Sitka, marking the beginning of Russian influence in the region.

In 1799, the Russian-American Company established a settlement in Sitka and named it Novo Arkhangelsk. The city quickly became a hub for fur trading and served as the capital of Russian America. The Russian influence is still evident in Sitka’s architecture and cultural traditions.

Sitka played a crucial role in World War II as well. During the war, the city served as a base for the defense of the Aleutian Islands and was home to a significant naval installation. Today, Sitka is a vibrant community that embraces its cultural heritage while also offering modern amenities and a high quality of life.

2. The Second Largest US City by Land Area

Following closely behind Sitka is Juneau, Alaska, with a land area of 2,701 square miles. Juneau is the capital city of Alaska and is located in the southeastern part of the state. The city is nestled between the mountains and the sea, offering stunning views and a unique blend of urban and natural environments.

Juneau was founded in 1880 after the discovery of gold in the area. The city quickly grew as prospectors flocked to the region in search of fortune. Today, Juneau is a vibrant city with a diverse economy. Government activities, fishing, forestry, and tourism are central to Juneau’s economy, making it a thriving and dynamic place to live and visit.

3. The Third Largest US City by Land Area

Wrangell, Alaska, takes the third spot on our list with a land area of 2,542 square miles. Wrangell is located on Wrangell Island in the Alexander Archipelago and is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history.

The city of Wrangell is the third-oldest community in Alaska and has a long and storied past. It was initially inhabited by the Tlingit people, who had a thriving community in the area for thousands of years. In the early 1800s, Russian fur traders arrived in Wrangell, establishing a trading post and fort.

Today, Wrangell is a charming and welcoming community that offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Fishing, tourism, and forest services are primary industries in Wrangell, and visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring historical sites.

4. The Fourth Largest US City by Land Area

Anchorage, Alaska, comes in fourth place with a land area of 1,704 square miles. Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and serves as the economic and cultural hub of the state.

Anchorage was founded in 1914 as the headquarters of the Alaska Railroad. The city quickly grew as people flocked to the area in search of opportunities in the railroad and other industries. Today, Anchorage is a bustling city with a diverse economy. Defense projects, natural resource exploitation, and tourism are central to Anchorage’s economy, making it a vibrant and thriving place to live and work.

5. The Fifth Largest US City by Land Area

Moving down the list, we come to Jacksonville, Florida, which spans an impressive 747 square miles. Jacksonville is the largest city by land area in the contiguous United States and is known for its advanced manufacturing, aviation, finance, and life sciences industries.

Jacksonville offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city is home to stunning beaches, beautiful parks, and a vibrant downtown area. Whether you’re interested in exploring the outdoors, enjoying cultural attractions, or experiencing the city’s thriving arts scene, Jacksonville has something for everyone.

6. The Sixth Largest US City by Land Area

Anaconda, Montana, takes the sixth spot on our list with a land area of 735 square miles. Anaconda was established in 1883 as a site for a new factory to treat ores from Daly’s mine. The city quickly grew as the Anaconda Copper Mining Company established its headquarters there.

Anaconda has a rich history and is known for its mining heritage. After the closure of the Anaconda smelters in 1980, the city transformed into a tourist destination. Visitors can explore historical sites, enjoy outdoor activities, and learn about the city’s fascinating past.

7. The Seventh Largest US City by Land Area

Butte, Montana, comes in seventh place with a land area of 716 square miles. Butte was initially a silver mining camp in the late 1800s and quickly grew into a bustling city. The city has a rich history and is undergoing environmental remediation and restoration efforts to preserve its heritage.

Butte offers a unique blend of history, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the city’s mining history, enjoy hiking and fishing in the surrounding mountains, and experience the vibrant arts and music scene.

8. The Eighth Largest US City by Land Area

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, covers 607 square miles, making it the eighth-largest city by land area in the United States. Oklahoma City became a major industrial city due to the success of the energy industry, particularly oil and natural gas.

Oklahoma City offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city is home to a vibrant downtown area, cultural attractions, and beautiful parks. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the warm hospitality of the local community.

9. The Ninth Largest US City by Land Area

Houston, Texas, spans 599 square miles, making it the ninth-largest city by land area in the United States. Houston is an important industrial base with over 230,000 industrial workers and is known for its thriving energy industry.

Houston offers a diverse range of attractions and activities. The city is home to world-class museums, a vibrant culinary scene, and a lively arts and music scene. Visitors can explore the city’s cultural heritage, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the warm hospitality of the local community.

10. The Tenth Largest US City by Land Area

Phoenix, Arizona, covers 516 square miles, making it the tenth-largest city by land area in the United States. Phoenix is the anchor of the Phoenix metropolitan area, known as the Valley of the Sun.

Phoenix offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city is known for its warm climate, stunning desert landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the unique charm of the Southwest.

FAQ

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What city in the US has the most land?

Sitka, Alaska, has the most land area of any city in the United States, covering 2,870 square miles.

Read more about “What is the Largest U.S. City by Land? …”

What city has the most land in the world?

While Sitka, Alaska, holds the title for the city with the most land area in the United States, it is not the largest city by land area in the world. The city with the largest land area in the world is Hulunbuir in Inner Mongolia, China, covering a staggering 263,953 square miles.

What city has the largest surface area?

The city with the largest surface area in the world is Tokyo, Japan. Tokyo covers an area of approximately 2,188 square miles.

Which city has the largest area in the world?

The city with the largest area in the world is New York City, USA. New York City covers an area of approximately 468.9 square miles.

Conclusion

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In conclusion, Sitka, Alaska, takes the crown as the city with the most land area in the United States. With its vast wilderness, rich history, and stunning natural beauty, Sitka offers a unique and captivating experience for visitors. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient forests, observing wildlife, or immersing yourself in Alaskan culture, Sitka has something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a city that combines urban amenities with natural beauty, Jacksonville, Florida, is the place to be. With its advanced manufacturing, aviation, finance, and life sciences industries, Jacksonville offers a vibrant and thriving community.

No matter which city you choose to explore, each one on this list has its own unique charm and attractions. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

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