Short answer
In the United States, “city” and “town” do not have one national size cutoff. State law defines the labels and government forms, and the Census Bureau must account for those differences. A town can be a substantial municipality or, in some states, a different kind of local division. 1 2
Neither word is a uniform nationwide population category; the legal relationship depends on the state.
On this page
At a glance
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| Question | City | Town |
|---|---|---|
| National size rule | None | None |
| Legal meaning | Set by state law | Set by state law |
| Census treatment | Often an incorporated place | Can be an incorporated place or, in some areas, another geographic unit |
The table summarizes the cited definitions and the article’s stated scope. 1 2
What each thing is
City. A local-government or incorporated-place label used under state law, with details varying by state. 1
Town. A local-government or place label whose legal structure varies by state and can differ from an incorporated city. 1
Key differences
Population alone does not settle whether a place is a city or town. The legal structure matters: incorporation, charter and state terminology. Census geography also distinguishes incorporated places from minor civil divisions; some New England towns fall into the latter governmental tradition. 1 2
How to tell them apart
Look up the state’s municipal law and the place’s official designation. If making a demographic comparison, check which Census geographic unit is being used. A roadside sign or everyday description may not reveal the legal category. 1 2
Where they overlap
Both may provide local services, have elected officials and serve as familiar place names. Residents may use “town” informally even where the legal entity is a city. 1 2
Edge cases
Some states use other labels such as borough or village. In New England, a town can be a principal unit of local government, not merely a small city. Names can persist after a place grows substantially. 1 2
Why the distinction exists
US municipalities developed under different state systems. Census terminology preserves these variations rather than imposing one nationwide population-based distinction. 1 2
Common misconceptions
A town does not automatically become a city after reaching a particular population. A city may be smaller than a town elsewhere. 1 2
Examples
Two communities of similar population in different states may have different legal labels, one city and one town. Compare their charters or state definitions to understand why. 1 2
Sources
Sources checked October 3, 2026.
- U.S. Census Bureau — Terms and Definitions. Incorporated Places; Counties.
- U.S. Census Bureau — Geography Program Glossary. Incorporated place and minor civil division entries.