Standardized metropolitan statistical area
Standardized metropolitan statistical area (SMSA) is a term used in the United States to refer to a geographical region with a high population density and significant economic activity. These areas are defined by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and are used for statistical purposes such as collecting and analyzing data on demographics, economics, and social trends.
One example of a standardized metropolitan statistical area is the New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA SMSA, which includes New York City, Newark, and Jersey City. This SMSA is one of the largest and most populous in the country, with a diverse economy that includes finance, media, and technology industries.
Within each SMSA, there are smaller areas known as metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) and micropolitan statistical areas (μSAs) that are used to further break down and analyze data. These smaller areas are defined based on factors such as population size, economic ties, and commuting patterns.
Overall, standardized metropolitan statistical areas play a crucial role in understanding the population and economic trends of a region, and are used by policymakers, businesses, and researchers to make informed decisions.