United States — Living: Major Cities

Why this matters

For individuals considering relocation to the United States, understanding the differences between major cities can greatly impact their decision-making process and overall experience.

Key facts

• 1 July 2025 estimates: New York City 8,584,629; Los Angeles 3,869,089; Chicago 2,731,585; Houston 2,397,315; Phoenix 1,665,481.
• Philadelphia ranked sixth and San Antonio seventh among the 15 most populous cities.
• New York City population fell by 12,196 between 2024 and 2025, the largest numeric decrease in the nation.
• Compare figures only within the same vintage; the Vintage 2024 figure for New York was 8,478,072.

Steps

1. Researching Major Cities — Research the specific city of interest, considering factors such as job opportunities, cost of living, culture, and safety. Utilize online resources, such as city websites, relocation guides, and forums, to gather information and insights.
2. Visiting Major Cities — Visit the city in person to get a firsthand experience of the local culture, meet with locals, and explore the city's neighborhoods and attractions.
3. Considering Job Opportunities — Look into job opportunities in the city, considering factors such as industry, salary, and work-life balance. Utilize online job boards, company websites, and professional networks to gather information and insights.