The Top 10 Richest U.S. Cities

Written by Loli Lucaciu
Published: September 27, 2023
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The United States is a land of economic diversity, with cities big and small contributing significantly to the nation’s wealth. In this list, we’ll explore the top 10 richest U.S. cities, ranked by Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita. From the bustling streets of New York to the cultural hub of San Francisco, let’s delve into the financial powerhouses that shape the nation’s economic landscape.

1. New York, New York

First off, New York City takes the top spot as the richest city in the United States, with an impressive GDP per capita (almost $2 trillion). Known as the financial capital of the world, New York’s economy thrives on finance, real estate, technology, and a diverse array of industries. From Wall Street’s bustling trading floors to the thriving startup scene in Brooklyn, the Big Apple reigns supreme.

Amazing panorama view of New York city skyline and skyscraper at sunset. Beautiful cityscape in Midtown Manhattan. Copy space for text.

New York is known as the financial capital of the world.

©Deliris/Shutterstock.com

2. Los Angeles, California

Next, in second place, is the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California, with a GDP per capita of $1.1 trillion. Beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, Los Angeles boasts a diverse economy, including entertainment, technology, healthcare, and international trade. Finally, it’s a city where dreams are not only made but also financially fulfilled.

View of Downtown Los Angeles from the Hollywood Hills. Interstate 101 is shown in the foreground.

Los Angeles boasts a diverse economy, including entertainment, technology, healthcare, and international trade.

©Sarah Fields Photography/Shutterstock.com

3. Chicago, Illinois

Up next, the Windy City of Chicago secures the third position on our list, with a GDP per capita of $765 billion. Known for its rich history, Chicago‘s economy thrives on finance, manufacturing, transportation, and cultural institutions. Moreover, the city’s iconic skyline reflects its economic prowess.

Chicago skyline and Buckingham Fountain

Chicago’s iconic skyline, seen here from Buckingham Fountain at Grant Park, is a good indicator of its economic prowess.

©dibrova/iStock via Getty Images

4. San Francisco, California

San Francisco, California, claims the fourth spot with a GDP per capita of $669 billion. The tech boom has transformed the city, making it a global tech hub. Moreover, Silicon Valley’s influence and innovation ripple through the Bay Area, contributing significantly to its economic strength.

View of a residential district of San Francisco with the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay in background at sunset

The tech boom has transformed San Francisco, making it a global tech hub.

©AlbertPego/iStock via Getty Images

5. Washington, D.C.

As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., secures the fifth place with a GDP per capita of $608 billion. The city’s economy is diverse, with contributions from the government, finance, technology, and healthcare sectors. All in all, it’s not only where policy decisions are made but also where economic success thrives.

Washington DC, The Mall - Washington DC, Aerial View, Summer, Urban Skyline

Washington’s economy is diverse, with contributions from the government, finance, technology, and healthcare sectors.

©iStock.com/aphotostory

6. Dallas, Texas

Next, Dallas, Texas, takes the sixth position on our list with a $599 billion GDP per capita. Known for its business-friendly environment, Dallas boasts a robust economy driven by the finance, technology, energy, and healthcare sectors. Ultimately, the city’s skyline continues to evolve, reflecting its economic dynamism.

Dallas, Texas, USA skyline over Dealey Plaza

Dallas’ skyline continues to evolve, reflecting its economic dynamism.

©Sean Pavone/iStock via Getty Images

7. Houston, Texas

Still in Texas, Houston, secures the seventh spot, boasting a noteworthy GDP per capita of $537 billion. Often associated with the energy industry, Houston’s economy has diversified, with contributions from the healthcare, aerospace, and manufacturing sectors. In conclusion, it’s a city where innovation meets opportunity.

Houston boasts a noteworthy GDP per capita of $537 billion.

©Adrian Newell / Pexels – License

8. Boston, Massachusetts

Next up, Boston, Massachusetts, claims the eighth spot with a remarkable GDP per capita of $532 billion. This historic city’s economy is driven by the finance, education, healthcare, and technology sectors. Moreover, the city is home to prestigious universities and cutting-edge research; Boston continues to shape the future.

Boston Skyline

Boston is home to prestigious universities doing cutting-edge research.

©bwzenith/iStock via Getty Images

9. Seattle, Washington

Following up is Seattle, Washington, which takes the ninth position on our list with a GDP per capita of $480 billion. Known as the birthplace of tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft, Seattle’s economy is deeply rooted in technology, aerospace, healthcare, and e-commerce.

Beautiful Seattle in the Evening with Mt.Rainer

Seattle is known for being the coffee capital, the home of big tech companies, and the place of origin for grunge music.

©Pung/Shutterstock.com

10. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Last but not least, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, rounds out our list as the tenth richest city in the United States. It boasts a noteworthy $478 billion GDP per capita. Moreover, it is known for its historical significance, being the nation’s first capital. All in all, Philadelphia’s economy is diverse, encompassing the healthcare, education, finance, and manufacturing sectors.

Philadelphia city hall

Philadelphia was the nation’s first capital (from 1790 to 1800).

©f11photo/Shutterstock.com

Final Recap

Finally, the United States boasts a diverse range of cities, each contributing significantly to the nation’s economic landscape. From the bustling streets of New York to the thriving tech hub of San Francisco, these cities shape the country’s financial future and showcase the nation’s economic diversity. All in all, whether driven by finance, technology, or healthcare, these cities are at the forefront of economic success.

RankCityGDP
1New York, NY$2 trillion
2Los Angeles, CA$1.1 trillion
3Chicago, IL$765 billion
4San Francisco, CA$669 billion
5Washington, D.C.$608 billion
6Dallas, TX$599 billion
7Houston, TX$537 billion
8Boston, MA$532 billion
9Seattle, WA$480 billion
10Philadelphia, PA$478 billion
A top 10 of the richest U.S. cities based on 2021 data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Deliris/Shutterstock.com


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About the Author

Loli Lucaciu, a writer at A-Z Animals, primarily focuses on covering places and animals. Loli holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Film and Media, Comparative Literature, and Foreign Languages from Emory University, which she earned in 2017. She has been working as a writer, marketer, and creative for the past 7 years. A resident of Washington State, Loli loves animals and worldwide travel.

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