What is a megalopolis?

A megalopolis refers to a densely populated urban area that encompasses multiple cities and their suburbs, creating a continuous metropolitan region. This phenomenon occurs when urban areas grow and expand, leading to a merging of cities through population movement and infrastructure development. Megalopolises often exhibit significant economic, social, and cultural interconnectivity, with shared transportation networks and labor markets.

The definition captures the essence of how cities evolve and function in close proximity to each other, interacting in various ways, including commerce and commuting. Notable examples of megalopolises include the Northeastern United States' "BosWash" corridor, which stretches from Boston to Washington, D.C., demonstrating the extensive urban connectivity and collaborative economic relationships that define megalopolitan areas.