What is a Metropolitan Statistical Area?
A Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) is a geographic region with a relatively high population density at its core and close economic ties throughout the area. The United States Office of Management and Budget (OMB) defines an MSA as “a core area containing a substantial population nucleus, together with adjacent communities having a high degree of economic and social integration with that core.” MSAs are used by the U.S. Census Bureau and other federal agencies to collect and analyze data related to population, housing, and economic activity.
How Are Metropolitan Statistical Areas Defined?
MSAs are composed of one or more counties and may include adjacent cities, towns, and unincorporated areas. These areas are based on the concept of a “functional economic region”, meaning that the economic activity of the area’s residents is closely linked. The economic integration of the area is measured by commuting patterns, employment rates, and other economic activity. To be designated as an MSA, an area must have at least one urban core with a population of 50,000 or more and must contain adjacent counties that have a high degree of economic and social integration with the core.
Examples of Metropolitan Statistical Areas
Some examples of MSAs in the United States include:
- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA
- Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA
- Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI
- Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX
- Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX
- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD
- Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA
Conclusion
Metropolitan Statistical Areas are used by the U.S. Census Bureau and other federal agencies to collect and analyze data related to population, housing, and economic activity. MSAs are composed of one or more counties and may include adjacent cities, towns, and unincorporated areas. To be designated as an MSA, an area must have at least one urban core with a population of 50,000 or more and must contain adjacent counties that have a high degree of economic and social integration with the core. For more information on Metropolitan Statistical Areas in the United States, visit the U.S. Census Bureau website.