New York City is the most populous city in the U.S., with an approximated population of about 9 million spread over about 303 square miles (784 km2), accounting for over 40% of New York State’s population. New York City is the most densely populated city in the United States and the largest metropolitan area in the world by urban landmass. With nearly 20 million people in its metropolitan statistical area and about 24 million in its combined statistical area, it is one of the world’s most populous megacities.