Top 25 USA Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs)

MSAs are determined based on central urbanized areas-- a contiguous area of relatively high population density. The counties containing the core urbanized area are known as the central counties of the MSA. Additional surrounding counties (known as outlying counties) can be included in the MSA if these counties have strong social and economic ties to the central counties as measured by commuting and employment. Some areas within these outlying counties may actually be rural in nature.

In this compilation of MSAs, you will find valuable information about each metropolitan area, from popular attractions, to vital information about local government, lodging, weather and schools. You will also discover how each MSA is uniquely tied to the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and medical device industry, one of the nation’s most rapidly growing industries.

Having started with a handful of companies, the biotech business in the U.S. has grown to thousands of companies with sales and revenues in this field are in the billions. Almost every MSA in the U.S. is somehow intimately tied to the biotech, pharmaceutial, and medical device industry.

In the East Coast you will find giants like ImClone Systems Incorporated, Pfizer Inc., and VirtualScopics, LLC. And on the West Coast you will find Osprey Pharmaceuticals USA, Corbett Robotics, and Medivation Inc.

By exploring the list of the 25 most populous metropolitan statistical areas in the U.S. below, you will not only learn more about the nation's major cities, but also discover their unique connection to the bourgeoning life science, research, and drug development industries.