Definition
A metropolitan area refers to a region that includes a central city and its surrounding suburbs and exurbs. The area is socio-economically tied to the central city, with significant commuting and economic interdependence within its bounds. This area typically has high population density and robust infrastructure to support residential, commercial, and governmental activities.
Key Characteristics
- Central City: The core urban area with high population density and a central role in governance, business, and cultural activities.
- Suburbs and Exurbs: Surrounding communities that are economically interdependent with the central city.
- Economic Integration: Integration facilitated by commuting patterns, shared services, and economic activities.
- Population Density: Higher density compared to rural areas due to developed infrastructure and housing.
Examples
- New York City Metropolitan Area: Includes New York City and surrounding counties in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
- Los Angeles Metropolitan Area: Encompasses Los Angeles and surrounding cities like Long Beach and Anaheim.
- Greater London: A highly integrated metropolitan area around the city of London in the United Kingdom.
- Tokyo Metropolitan Area: Includes Tokyo and surrounding prefectures in Japan, forming one of the world’s most populous regions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What distinguishes a metropolitan area from a city?
A metropolitan area encompasses a central city and its surrounding suburbs, whereas a city is a single urban entity with distinct administrative boundaries.
How are metropolitan areas defined?
They are defined based on population density, economic integration, and commuting patterns to the central city. These criteria are typically set by governmental and statistical agencies like the U.S. Census Bureau.
What is the role of a metropolitan area in regional planning?
Metropolitan areas play a crucial role in regional planning by coordinating infrastructure, transportation, housing, and economic policies across multiple jurisdictions to ensure balanced and sustainable development.
What is a Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Area (CMSA)?
A CMSA refers to a large metropolitan area that comprises multiple, economically linked areas, which are themselves defined as Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs).
What is the difference between a Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) and a Primary Metropolitan Statistical Area (PMSA)?
An MSA is a general term for a metropolitan area defined by population and economic activity, while a PMSA is a subdivision of a CMSA that has its significant central area and a distinct economic identity.
Related Terms
- Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Area (CMSA): A large metropolitan area comprising multiple MSAs.
- Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA): A region with a significant population density at its core and close economic ties throughout.
- Primary Metropolitan Statistical Area (PMSA): A component of a CMSA, often with a sizable and economically distinct urban core.
Online References
- U.S. Census Bureau: Metropolitan and Micropolitan
- OECD: Metropolitan Areas
- United Nations: Metropolitan Areas and the Policy Framework
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “City and Regional Planning” by Peter Hall and Mark Tewdwr-Jones
- “Urban Economics” by Arthur O’Sullivan
- “Urban and Regional Planning: A Systems Approach” by Peter Geoffrey Hall and Mark Tewdwr-Jones
- “The Death and Life of Great American Cities” by Jane Jacobs
- “Planning Theory for Practitioners” by Michael Brooks
Fundamentals of Metropolitan Area: Urban Economics Basics Quiz
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