The Most Popular City in the Midwest, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the city you think is the most popular!
Updated on May 7, 2024 06:33
Determining the most popular city in the Midwest can be an insightful exercise for individuals planning to visit or move to the area. By aggregating public opinions, one can get a clearer picture of which cities resonate most with people, whether due to cultural richness, economic opportunities, or quality of life. A ranked list based on collective input reveals not only popular preferences but also provides a snapshot of regional trends and attractions.
This dynamic rating system allows everyone to contribute their views, making the outcome a reflection of a diverse range of experiences and preferences. As more people participate in voting, the accuracy of the rankings improves, providing incoming tourists and potential residents with up-to-date and reliable information. Your vote matters and can influence the rankings directly, enabling you to share your own experiences and help shape the current perception of the Midwest's cities.
What Is the Most Popular City in the Midwest?
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187votesWith a population of over 2.7 million, Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States and a major hub for business, culture, and entertainment. Known for its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and world-class museums and restaurants, Chicago is a top destination for tourists and a popular place to call home.Chicago is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city located in the state of Illinois. It is known for its breathtaking architecture, diverse culture, and stunning skyline. With its beautiful lakefront and numerous parks, Chicago offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. The city is famous for its deep-dish pizza, blues music, and passionate sports fans. Chicago is a melting pot of different ethnicities, creating a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Renowned for its iconic landmarks such as Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and The Art Institute of Chicago, the city provides endless opportunities for exploration and entertainment. Whether you're strolling along the Magnificent Mile, taking an architecture boat tour along the Chicago River, or catching a show in the renowned theater district, Chicago promises an unforgettable experience for visitors and residents alike.
- Population: 2.7 million (city proper)
- Area: 606.1 square kilometers
- Foundation: August 12, 1833
- Tallest Building: Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower)
- Number of Parks: Over 570 parks in the city
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220votesOnce known as the "Motor City," Detroit has a rich history as a center of industry and innovation. Today, it is home to a thriving arts scene, a growing tech industry, and a revitalized downtown area. With a population of over 670,000, Detroit is the largest city in Michigan and a symbol of the Midwest's resilience and creativity.Detroit is the largest and most populous city in the state of Michigan. Located in the Midwest region of the United States, it is a major center for automotive manufacturing, music, arts, and finance. The city has a rich history, known for its contributions to the American automotive industry and the development of Motown music.
- Population: 670,031 (2019)
- Area: 142.87 square miles
- Nickname: Motor City
- Major Industries: Automotive, Music, Finance
- Sports Teams: Detroit Tigers (MLB), Detroit Lions (NFL), Detroit Pistons (NBA), Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
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334votesKnown for its parks, lakes, and bike-friendly infrastructure, Minneapolis is a vibrant and livable city that attracts young professionals, families, and retirees alike. With a population of over 430,000, it is the largest city in Minnesota and a hub for education, healthcare, and the arts.Minneapolis is the largest city in the state of Minnesota and one of the most populous cities in the Midwest. It is known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor activities, and a high quality of life. As the economic and cultural center of the region, Minneapolis offers a diverse range of attractions and amenities.
- Population: Approximately 425,000 residents
- Area: Approximately 151 square kilometers
- Lakes: Known as the 'City of Lakes,' Minneapolis is home to more than 20 lakes
- Skyline: Iconic skyline dominated by skyscrapers, including the famous IDS Center
- Weather: Four distinct seasons with cold winters and warm summers
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413votesLocated on the banks of the Mississippi River, St. Louis is a historic city with a vibrant cultural scene and a reputation for great food and drink. With a population of over 300,000, it is the largest city in Missouri and a major transportation hub for the Midwest.St. Louis is a major city located in the Midwest region of the United States. It is known for its iconic Gateway Arch, which symbolizes the city's role as the Gateway to the West. St. Louis has a rich history, vibrant culture, and is home to numerous attractions and landmarks.
- Population: Approximately 300,000
- Area: 66.2 square miles
- State: Missouri
- Nickname: The Gateway City
- Famous Landmarks: Gateway Arch, Forest Park, City Museum
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513votesWith a population of over 850,000, Indianapolis is the largest city in Indiana and a hub for sports, culture, and commerce. Home to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Indianapolis Colts, and the Indiana Pacers, it is a destination for sports fans from around the world.Indianapolis is the capital and most populous city of the state of Indiana in the United States. It is known for its vibrant downtown, beautiful cultural attractions, and world-renowned sporting events. Indianapolis is often referred to as the "Crossroads of America" due to its central location within the state and its extensive highway system.
- Population: Approximately 876,384 (as of 2020)
- Area: 368.02 square miles
- Founding: 1821
- Mayor: Joe Hogsett
- Nicknames: Indy, Circle City
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614votesLocated on the shores of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is a city with a strong industrial heritage and a thriving arts and culture scene. With a population of over 590,000, it is the largest city in Wisconsin and home to the Milwaukee Brewers and the Milwaukee Bucks.Milwaukee is a city located in the state of Wisconsin and is the largest city in the state. It is known for its rich industrial history and vibrant cultural scene. The city is situated on the western shore of Lake Michigan and is home to numerous breweries, museums, and festivals. Milwaukee's diverse neighborhoods offer a mix of modern architecture and historic buildings, creating a unique urban landscape. The city is also famous for its sports culture, with passionate fans supporting teams like the Milwaukee Bucks and the Milwaukee Brewers.
- Population: Approximately 590,157
- Area: 96.80 square miles
- Founded: January 31, 1846
- Major River: Milwaukee River
- County: Milwaukee County
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76votesKnown for its rock and roll history, world-class museums, and thriving food scene, Cleveland is a city on the rise. With a population of over 385,000, it is the largest city in Ohio and a hub for healthcare, education, and technology.Cleveland is a vibrant city located in the state of Ohio. Known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse population, it offers a stunning blend of modern architecture and natural beauty. Situated on the southern shore of Lake Erie, Cleveland is famous for its picturesque waterfront, which provides breathtaking views of the lake and the downtown skyline. The city is home to numerous world-class museums, award-winning restaurants, and a thriving arts and music scene. With its welcoming atmosphere and friendly residents, Cleveland promises an unforgettable experience for visitors and locals alike.
- Population: 385,525
- Area: 82.47 square miles
- Elevation: 653 feet
- Major Sports Teams: Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA), Cleveland Indians (MLB), Cleveland Browns (NFL)
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Located in Cleveland
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811votesLocated on the border between Missouri and Kansas, Kansas City is a city with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant arts and entertainment scene. With a population of over 490,000, it is the largest city in Missouri and a destination for foodies, music lovers, and sports fans.Kansas City is the largest city in the state of Missouri, located at the western edge of the state. However, a portion of the city extends into the neighboring state of Kansas. It is a major cultural and economic center in the Midwest region of the United States.
- Population: Approximately 500,000 (city), 2.1 million (metropolitan area)
- Area: 319.03 square miles (826.28 square kilometers)
- Nicknames: City of Fountains, Paris of the Plains
- River: Missouri River - flows adjacent to the city
- Airport: Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
Kansas City in other rankings- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular city in Kansas
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99votesKnown for its friendly people, low cost of living, and strong economy, Omaha is a city with a lot to offer. With a population of over 480,000, it is the largest city in Nebraska and a hub for business, education, and healthcare.Omaha is a popular variant of poker that is played with a standard deck of 52 cards. It is known for its action-packed gameplay and strategic decision-making. Similar to Texas Hold'em, Omaha aims to make the best five-card hand, but with a few key differences.
- Number of Cards: 52
- Number of Hole Cards: 4
- Community Cards: 5
- Hand Ranking: Standard poker hand rankings apply
- Forced Bets: Small blind, big blind, and optional straddle
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104votesWith a population of over 900,000, Columbus is the largest city in Ohio and a center of innovation and entrepreneurship. Home to The Ohio State University and a growing tech industry, it is a city on the cutting edge of science, technology, and design.
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Ranking factors for popular city
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PopulationThe number of people residing in the city can be a significant factor in determining its popularity.
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Economic activityCities with thriving economies, job opportunities, and industry presence can be considered more popular, as they attract more people for work and commerce.
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Culture and diversityThe presence of various cultural attractions, events, and diverse communities can make a city more appealing to a broader range of people.
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TourismCities that attract a significant number of tourists through landmarks, museums, recreational activities, and events can also be considered popular.
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EducationCities with reputable colleges and universities can draw students and increase popularity.
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Infrastructure and transportationA city with well-developed infrastructure and convenient transportation options is generally favored.
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Safety and crime ratesA city with lower crime rates and a safer living environment holds more appeal for residents and visitors.
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Quality of lifeCities with a high quality of life—due to factors such as affordable housing, access to healthcare, and overall living conditions—attract people and contribute to their popularity.
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Sports and entertainmentA city with popular professional sports teams and vibrant entertainment options can become a favorite in the region.
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Reputation and public perceptionPopular cities often have a positive reputation and are frequently featured in media, contributing to their overall popularity.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular city in the Midwest. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or city is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2266 views
- 203 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each city once every 24 hours. The rank of each city is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular city in the midwest
The Midwest region of the United States is known for its diverse culture, beautiful landscapes, and friendly people. The cities in this region are some of the most vibrant and bustling in the country, attracting visitors from all over the world. With so many options, it's no wonder that people often debate which city is the most popular in the Midwest. From the bustling metropolis of Chicago, to the charming streets of Minneapolis, and the historic architecture of St. Louis, there's something for everyone in the Midwest. So, which city will come out on top in our poll? Keep reading to find out!
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