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Urban Area

Definition

An urban area is a region characterized by high population density and vast human features in comparison to areas surrounding it. It includes cities and towns.

Analogy

Think of an urban area like a bustling beehive. Just as bees congregate in hives, people gather in urban areas where there are many resources, activities, and opportunities.

Related terms

Urbanization: This refers to the process through which rural areas transform into urban areas due to economic development and population growth.

Metropolitan Area: A metropolitan area is a region consisting of a densely populated urban core and its less-populated surrounding territories, sharing industry, infrastructure, and housing.

Megalopolis: A megalopolis is a chain of roughly adjacent metropolitan areas. The cities and their suburbs form an extensive network of economic activity.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.