North America's Largest And Most Populated City Outranks NYC By A Long Shot

New York City is a bustling metropolis, and if you've never been to a megacity before, it's hard to believe that something larger could even exist. Although New York is the largest city in the United States, it's majorly outranked by Mexico City.

Mexico City is the largest city in North America, and the population of New York City doesn't even come close. In 2026, the total number of people living in New York City is around 8.5 million. Mexico City has around 9 million residents. If you include the entire urban area surrounding Mexico City, then the population reaches over 25 million people.

Like most megacities around the world, both New York City and Mexico City are major international hubs. Both are popular tourist destinations, but Mexico City is the place to go if you want to experience the largest city on the North American continent. It's a hub for art, culture, and gastronomy. During your trip you can experience Mexico's rich heritage, enjoy the exciting food scene, stay in unique accommodations, and explore one of the most iconic cities on earth.

Mexico has 31 different states, but Mexico City isn't located in any of them. Instead, it is considered a separate federal entity, kind of like Washington D.C. in the United States. It is the capital of the nation and serves as the main financial, political, and cultural hub of the massive North American country. The city is located in the central part of the country in what is known as the Valley of Mexico.

Flights to Mexico City depart from major airports all over the world. Mexico City-Juarez International Airport (MEX) is the largest and the most popular. It's about five miles from the city center. Mexico City-Felipe Angeles International Airport (NLU) is a newer airport that opened in 2022. It is much further from the city center. Traveling the 28 miles from the airport to downtown takes about an hour. If it's your first time visiting Mexico City, renting a car is probably not a great idea. Since it's such a busy metropolitan area, driving can be stressful. Spanish speakers might have better luck, but if you aren't fluent, it can be difficult to navigate. Luckily, Mexico City has plenty of transportation options. There is an extensive public transportation system that includes a metro, cable cars, a light rail, and buses. Rideshare apps like Uber are popular, safe, and reliable, but you should always take proper precautions. Taxis are also an option. 

There are some dangerous vacation spots in Mexico, but Mexico City is generally considered safe for tourists. Still, it's best to stick to popular tourist neighborhoods during your first visit to Mexico City, at least until you understand the lay of the land. Like any major city in the world, there are safer neighborhoods and neighborhoods with higher instances of crime. 

There is a lot to do and see in Mexico City. You can't leave without spending at least a full day exploring the Centro Histórico. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to some of the city's most stunning architecture. The Centro Histórico has been inhabited for hundreds of years, and it's been an important cultural hub since ancient times.

There are over 150 different museums to explore across Mexico City. If you're passionate about visual art, Museo Soumaya has some of the finest art in the city. Even the building is a work of art in and of itself. La Casa Azul, which is located in Mexico City's oldest neighborhood, is another spot you can't miss. It was once home to the renowned Mexican artist and activist Frida Kahlo. Many of the rooms were left undisturbed and her art is featured throughout the visually stunning house. If you're more interested in history, check out Museo Nacional de Historia. It is located inside Chapultepec Castle, which was built in the late 1700s. Make sure to carve out some time to explore the city's world-famous parks during your visit as well.

From opulent fine-dining experiences to bustling markets with mouthwatering street food, foodies will be delighted with the plethora of options available in Mexico City. Make sure to pack your appetite! Accommodation options range from unique short-term vacation rentals to luxurious boutique hotels. One of the most iconic places to stay is the rental within El Nido de Quetzalcoatl or Quetzalcoatl's Nest. It is named to honor an Aztec deity who was a feathered serpent. Both the fantastical structure and the garden that surrounds it are breathtaking. The masterpiece was created by Mexican architect Javier Senosiain and there is nowhere else like it on earth.