Can You Guess the Biggest City of Each State in the USA?

WORLD

By: Lauren Lubas

7 Min Quiz

Image: Alexander Spatari/Moment/Getty Images

About This Quiz

As states grow in population, citizens generally are attracted to specific areas. Cities across the United States are fully stocked with everything people need to establish themselves and succeed. Although they're a little more expensive to live in, people often find that being a part of a larger city gives them a greater sense of freedom and accomplishment.

Cities are also attractions for every state. Tourists are more likely to visit larger cities where there is a variety of things to do, attractions to see and places to eat. This inspires even more people to move to cities and highly populated areas because more tourists mean more entertainment and more employment. This is how cities across America grow and prosper. 

Every state in the U.S. has at least one city, no matter how small. While you may be able to name a few of the bigger cities in America, do you think you can name the biggest city in every single state? Take this quiz to find out just how in-tune with the bustling city life you really are.

Arkansas's largest city might sound "small," but do you know what it's called?

Right between Memphis, Tennessee, and Dallas, Texas, you will find Little Rock Arkansas. It's the home of Bill Clinton and is also the place where you can find his presidential library and museum.

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Utah may be a very mountainous state, but it also has a rather large city. Do you know the name of the largest city in Utah?

There is no doubt that Utah and its citizens care about family values. In fact, you can find the largest genealogical library in the entire world in Salt Lake City. It's called the Family History Library.

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You might not be surprised by the largest city in Illinois, but do you think you can name it?

On the shores of Lake Michigan in Illinois, you'll find Chicago. While there is a lot of talk about the city's crime rate, Chicago has a rich artistic area and includes some of the most important museums in the United States.

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The largest city in Idaho only has a population of about 200,000 people. Can you name it?

One of the most interesting sites to see if you ever visit Boise, Idaho, is the Old Idaho Penitentiary. While it might seem weird to visit a prison, you will find gallows and military weapons of the past there.

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There are a lot of historical cities in Georgia, but do you know the largest city in the state?

Atlanta, Georgia, has grown in popularity over the last few decades. It has become a haven for hip-hop artists and rappers. Many who seek to be found by record companies go to Atlanta to demonstrate their skills and talents.

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The largest city in Indiana also has one of the largest race tracks in the United States. Do you know the name of the city?

The home of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway also offers quite a bit of family fun, if you're traveling that way. For example, at Conner Prairie, you can get an immersion walk-through of the Civil War and experience an interactive theater.

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Michigan has a large population in its suburbs, but what is the biggest city in the state?

Also known as Motor City, Detroit, Michigan, is the place where Motown Records was founded, and some of the greatest music of the 20th century emerged. These days, you can find a city full of art, music and industry.

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The largest city in Wisconsin is also its easternmost city. Can you name it?

On the shore of Lake Michigan, north of Chicago, you'll find Milwaukee, Wisconsin. While many think of Milwaukee as a place with many breweries, it is also home to the Harley-Davidson Museum and a large European village.

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The largest city in California has almost 4 million people. Do you know what it is?

One of the most well-known cities in the United States is Los Angeles. Although it is a centralized area for a lot of Hollywood elite, you will also find a lot of excellent sightseeing if you visit, but be prepared for traffic.

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Can you name the city in Kentucky that is known for horse racing and is also the largest city in the state?

Near the Indiana border and on the Ohio River, you will find Louisville, Kentucky. It is the home of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs as well as the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory (where baseball bats are made).

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Colorado has several small cities. Do you know which one is the largest?

Denver, known as the Mile High City, can be found at an altitude of 5,690 feet. If you visit, you may find some heavy snows, but you'll also find a rich artistic life where you'll see a lot of museums that feature local artists.

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You probably won't have to guess what the largest city in Massachusetts is, but do you think you could give it a try?

There are quite a bit of historical, artsy and recreational things to do in Boston, Massachusetts. However, one fact that people don't realize is that it's the city that holds the second most sports championships among all United States cities, even with the Red Sox curse.

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Also known as "Charm City," which of these is the largest city in Maryland?

Not only is Baltimore the largest city in Maryland, it is also home to one of the most important historical events in American history. It is the place where "The Star Spangled Banner" was written.

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Alaska's biggest city might surprise you. Do you know what it is?

As one of the smaller cities in the United States, you might not hear much about Anchorage. However, if you visit the city, you will find that it focuses on native heritage and cultural history.

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Nevada's largest city is also its most notorious. Do you know what it's called?

Everyone knows Las Vegas as a party town, but for those who live there, it's a place to live, make money and raise a family. The nightlife is one of the most well-publicized of any city in the United States, but it's important to remember that it's not a completely lawless town.

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Mississippi's largest city also has a lot of historical roots. Do you think you can name it?

History buffs who have studied the Civil Rights Movement probably know a thing or two about Jackson, Mississippi. As a matter of fact, the city is home to historical landmarks and museums dedicated to America's past.

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Can you tell us where you'll find the biggest population in Arizona?

Phoenix is both the largest city in Arizona and the state capital. A metropolitan area referred to as the Valley of the Sun consists of Phoenix and suburbs Mesa and Scottsdale.

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Wyoming is known for its mountainous countryside, but do you think you can name the largest city in the state?

Wyoming may be the best place for someone who loves to be in secluded areas, but Cheyenne is a different kind of city. It is home to historic buildings and a bontanic gardens center that has a labyrinth.

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As a small state, New Hampshire has only a few cities. Can you name the biggest one?

For a taste of history, travelers should visit Manchester, New Hampshire. The town is full of unique museums, including the Millyard Museum. This is a museum that is in an old fabric mill and delves into the history of the textile industry of the city.

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Do you know which of the Twin Cities in Minnesota is the largest?

The only thing that separates Minneapolis from Minnesota's state capital, St. Paul, is the Mississippi River. The city is filled with cultural and artistic landmarks and has produced some of the best contemporary writers.

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Hawaii is composed of eight islands. The largest city is NOT on the largest island, but can you name that city?

Honolulu isn't on the largest island of Hawaii, and it's found on Oahu. Most people consider Honolulu an excellent place for tourists to spend time on the beach, but it also has historical sites, including the USS Arizona Memorial.

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Oregon's largest city shares a name with another state's largest city. Do you know it?

Between the Willamette River and the Columbia River, you will find Portland, the largest city in the state of Oregon. It's filled with hip, contemporary recreational activities and lounging activities.

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Iowa has a lot of pull in the elections, but can you name the largest city in the state?

Des Moines may seem like it's in the middle of nowhere, but it is one city that many Midwesterners have to drive through at some point or another. It's major highways lead to Minneapolis, Chicago and Kansas City.

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Dorothy didn't live in the largest city in Kansas, but she wasn't far. Can you name the state's biggest city?

You might think that there is very little to do in the state of Kansas, but if you pass through Wichita, there are some attractions that you can't miss. Exploration Place is one of those attractions; it includes interactive science exhibits.

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Much like New York, Oklahoma's largest city might seem too easy. Do you know which one it is?

Oklahoma City may be best known for the culture and the oil industry that surrounds it. You can't visit the town without seeing cowboys on every corner or functioning oil wells on its outskirts.

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Which city is the largest in the state of New Mexico and is nicknamed Duke City?

Albuquerque isn't just the place where Bugs Bunny took a wrong turn. As a matter of fact, it has quite the night life as well as an educational branch that is filled with museums and Native American culture.

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This might seem simple, but do you know what the largest city in New York state is?

With a population of over 8 million people, New York City isn't just the largest city in the state of New York, it's the largest city in the United States. It is also an international hub of commerce and entertainment.

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The Midwest state of Nebraska calls which city its largest?

If you're following the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, you will come across Omaha, Nebraska. The Omaha Zoo is a huge attraction, as it includes indoor desert and rainforest exhibits for guests to get the full experience.

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Delaware may be a small state, but it does have cities. Which is the largest one?

Sitting along the Delaware River, you'll find Wilmington, Delaware. With a population of only around 70,000 people, it is one of the smaller cities in the United States, but it's the largest one Delaware has.

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Do you know what the biggest city in Washington state is called?

Those in search of city life and nature at the same time flock to Seattle to take in varying landscapes. Sea, mountains and forests can be found throughout the area, and the city is home to acres upon acres of parks.

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The largest city in Louisiana is on the coast. What is it called?

Also known as The Big Easy, New Orleans is full of Southern, French and African cultures. These cultures all come together for the 24/7 nightlife for which New Orleans may be best known.

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Which city with a gorgeous landscape does South Dakota call its largest?

If you're looking for a city in the United States that has some of the most beautiful scenic views, Sioux Falls should be your destination. With the waters of the Big Sioux River flowing over rock formations, it is a one-of-a-kind place.

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Which historical city also has the largest population in Alabama?

Birmingham can be found in the center of the state, and it connects many major highways. While Birmingham, Alabama, has an interesting past tied to the civil rights movement, it also has a contemporary nightlife.

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Rhode Island might be the smallest state, but what is the name of its biggest city?

Rhode Island may be small, but it is filled with a rich culture. The city of Providence doesn't just have great historical sites, it's also home to Brown University, an Ivy League school.

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You think you know the largest city in Pennsylvania, but it's a close race. Can you guess which of these cities is the largest?

Philadelphia might be the most well-known historical city in the United States, but it's home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. There are also several sites that are dedicated to the American Revolution.

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With a population of only about 110,000 people, what is the largest city in Montana?

While many don't necessarily plan a trip to Billings on purpose, those who pass through find a variety of things to do. From the Yellowstone River to Moss Mansion, Billings is full of sites to see for every traveler.

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Maine may be the eastern-most state, but can you name its largest city?

Although many don't necessarily consider Maine to be a tourist attraction, if you love Victorian homes, sea life and historical sites, Portland should be at the top of your list for your East Coast vacation.

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North Dakota's largest city is also the name of a popular movie set in the area. Can you name it?

If you've seen the movie "Fargo," you may think you know the biggest city in North Dakota, but you might be surprised. Fargo is home to the Plains Art Museum which offers a look at contemporary Native American art and culture.

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With a population of over 700,000 people, North Carolina calls this city its largest. Which one is it?

Charlotte, North Carolina, isn't like many cities in the surrounding area or even in the South. It boasts a modernized city center called Uptown that features museums, shopping and the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

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New Jersey's largest city has a pretty small population. Do you know its name?

For a city so close to New York City, Newark, New Jersey, has a rather small population (only reaching about 280,000 people). However, the city is home to an international airport as well as the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.

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South Carolina calls this city its largest. Can you name it?

Founded in 1670, Charleston is known for its cobblestone streets, antebellum houses and historical sites spread throughout the city. Charleston is also home to the federal stronghold where the first shots of the Civil War took place.

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Which of these is the largest city in West Virginia, with a population of around 48,000 people?

One of the highlights of visiting Charleston, West Virginia, is the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences. Here you'll find a planetarium, a concert all and a discovery museum. It's the perfect place for a family vacation.

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Texas has many large cities, but do you know the biggest?

Sitting on Gavelston Bay and extremely close to the Gulf of Mexico, you will find Houston, the largest city in Texas. In Houston, you'll find the Space Center and NASA's training complex.

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With a population of only 42,417, what is the largest city in the state of Vermont?

Burlington, Vermont, can be found just south of the Canadian border, on Lake Champlain. It is the home of the Revolutionary War hero Ethan Allen and has created a museum in his honor.

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Tennessee's largest city is its capital. Do you know what it is?

The biggest country music fans in the world head to Nashville to see the most prestigious venues that America has to offer. Among these venues, you'll find the Grand Ole Opry House and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

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You may be surprised at the biggest city in Florida. Do you think you can guess its name?

On the East Coast of Florida is where you'll find Jacksonville. It may not be Florida's No. 1 tourist attraction, but the recreational life there thrives with swimming, surfing and various water sports.

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You might not think of Missouri often, but can you guess its biggest city?

Anyone who has ever passed through Kansas City, Missouri, knows that the town is known for several things that revolve around nightlife. These include jazz music (there is even a museum dedicated to it) and barbecue.

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Which coastal city is also the largest in Connecticut?

Bridgeport, Connecticut, is on the coast of Long Island Sound. Few people realize that it is only 60 miles away from Manhattan and just a short ferry ride from Long Island itself.

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The largest city in Ohio isn't far from some of the biggest cities in the United States. Do you know its name?

You may not think that Columbus would be a big city, but its population is nearly 1 million people. It also has a great outdoor life (in the summer), that includes the Scioto Mile, which is a line of parks that follows the Scioto River.

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You might be surprised at the largest city in Virginia, but do you think you can guess what it is?

In Virginia Beach, Virginia, you'll find a 3-mile-long boardwalk along the Atlantic Ocean. The city is also a mecca of marine and sea studies, as well as the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.

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