These Are the 11 Biggest Cities in the Midwest

11. Saint Paul, Minnesota

The tenth-place city on our list is Saint Paul, Minnesota. Minnesota is one of two states with two cities in the top ten list. Saint Paul is the first of Minnesota’s cities, with a 2020 population of 311,527 residents. It’s the “Twin City” of Minneapolis, forming an iconic duo of cities known around America. St. Paul itself is known as a city made up of neighborhoods, mimicking the feel of a smaller town despite its size.

10. Cleveland, Ohio

Ohio is the second state to have two cities on this list. The first city is Cleveland, Ohio. On the 2020 Census, Cleveland had a population of 372,624 residents. Ohio is home to a few different populated cities, including Cincinnati and Toledo, which didn’t make this list. Cleveland is a great spot to visit if you’re touring the Midwest. It’s known for its great sports teams, the Cleveland Metropolitan Zoo, and, of course, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame! Whether you’re an athlete or a music lover, there’s plenty to do in Cleveland.

9. Wichita, Kansas

The ninth-biggest city in the Midwest is Wichita, Kansas. Kansas is one of the most southern states in the Midwest, and Wichita is toward the southern portion of the state. The 2020 Census showed that the city had a population of 397,532 residents. Wichita, Kansas is the birthplace of a long list of well-known companies, including Pizza Hut! If you’re a food lover, Wichita is a great city to visit. Grab the state’s favorite food pairing, chili and cinnamon rolls, while you’re in town. If that’s not your style, you can, of course, enjoy some chicken fried steak!

8. Minneapolis, Minnesota

The eighth-place spot is held by Minneapolis, Minnesota, the largest of the two “Twin Cities” of Minnesota. In 2020, Minneapolis had a population of 429,954 residents. It’s home to a long list of adorable, green parks, and there are great opportunities to dip your toes in the waters of the surrounding lakes and rivers.

7. Omaha, Nebraska

While Nebraska doesn’t have a reputation for big-city life, the state is actually home to the seventh-largest city in the Midwest: Omaha! Omaha is the biggest city in Nebraska and, according to the 2020 Census, had a population of 486,051 residents.

The city of Omaha has a few major talking points if you’re considering visiting. First and foremost, the city has some of the most delicious steaks in America!

If you’re a foodie, be sure to grab a plate in Omaha. Secondly, Omaha is home to an awesome, world-renowned zoo.

6. Kansas City, Missouri

One of the most southern states in the Midwest possesses one of the biggest cities in the region. Missouri‘s Kansas City is the sixth-biggest city in the Midwest! In 2020, Kansas City was home to 508,090 residents. The population density of this city is pretty good, though, as these residents had 319 square miles to roam. Kansas City is an awesome destination for folks with a musical interest. The city is known for its vibrant jazz scene. While you’re in town, be sure to grab some burnt ends and a slice of Kansas City mud pie!

5. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Head over to Wisconsin for the fifth-biggest city in the Midwest! That city is Milwaukee. Milwaukee is not the capital but is the largest city in the state. In 2020, Milwaukee had a population of 577,222 residents. These residents were packed into some tight quarters, with a city size spanning only 96 square miles, making Milwaukee one of the smallest cities in size on this top ten list. Milwaukee has a great reputation for art and history. The city is home to the Harley-Davidson Museum, as well as the beautiful Milwaukee Art Museum.

4. Detroit, Michigan

The biggest city in Michigan is the fourth-largest city in the Midwest. That city is Detroit! While Detroit is not the capital of Michigan, it’s extremely populous. The 2020 Census reported that 631,111 resided within the city. Detroit is an exciting city with a rich history. It’s not only the home of Motown, but the home of Detroit-style pizza, as well! Detroit is a beautiful city with rich diversity, producing great arts and food.

3. Indianapolis, Indiana

Yet another capital city on this list is Indianapolis, Indiana. Indianapolis is the third-most populous midwestern city, with a 2020 population of 887,642. It’s a well-known city, known for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, having two major sports teams, and of course, having the world’s largest children’s museum! Indianapolis is an awesome city for a family trip. Catch a Colt’s game and then head over to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.

2. Columbus, Ohio

According to the United States Census Bureau, Columbus is the second-largest city in the Midwest. Columbus, Ohio is the capital city of Ohio, and in 2020, there were 905,748 residents recorded in the city. Interestingly enough, Columbus is also the 14th most populous city in all of America. Columbus has a bustling art scene and is a great spot for big thinkers. It’s also known for its incredible zoo!

1. Chicago, Illinois

No surprise here, but Chicago, Illinois is the most populous city in the Midwest. The 2020 Census showed that Chicago possessed a population of 2,746,388 residents. That’s more than triple the population of the second-most populous midwestern state! Chicago is the capital of Illinois and offers great proximity to Lake Michigan. It’s a hub for art, cuisine, and sports, and definitely a spot worth checking out.