What is a megalopolis?

A megalopolis refers to a densely populated urban area that is formed by the merging or close proximity of several large cities and their suburbs. This phenomenon typically occurs in regions where urbanization has led to the expansion of urban areas, resulting in a continuous network of metropolitan regions. The characteristics of a megalopolis include a high population density, extensive infrastructure, and significant economic interactions among the interconnected cities.

For instance, the BosWash corridor in the United States, which stretches from Boston to Washington, D.C., is often cited as a classic example of a megalopolis, showcasing how urban growth can lead to the blending of multiple significant urban centers into one overarching metropolitan area. The concept highlights the increasing urbanization and the complexity of urban development that goes beyond the individual city to encompass a larger urban landscape.