The United States holds a significant position among the world's largest countries by geographical area.
Where Does the US Rank in Geographical Area?
The United States ranks as either the third or fourth-largest country in the world by total area, which includes both land and water. This slight variation in ranking often depends on the specific measurement methodologies used, particularly regarding coastal waters and territorial claims.
Understanding the US Ranking
When considering total area, which encompasses land and internal waters, the United States is comparable in size to the People's Republic of China. Both nations are vast, but their precise ordering can fluctuate based on different geographical surveys and how various bodies of water are accounted for.
It is definitively established that Russia and Canada are larger than the United States and China in total area. Conversely, the United States is notably larger than countries like Brazil.
Here’s a general overview of the top countries by total area:
| Rank (Approximate) | Country |
|---|---|
| 1 | Russia |
| 2 | Canada |
| 3 or 4 | United States |
| 3 or 4 | China |
| 5 | Brazil |
The total area measurement includes inland bodies of water such as lakes and rivers, as well as territorial waters, making the calculation complex and subject to slight variations across different geographical institutes. For more information on country sizes, you can refer to comprehensive lists of countries by area.
