How Big is Los Angeles? Asking for a Friend (Who Needs a Really Big Towel)
Ever looked at a map of Los Angeles and thought, "Dang, that sprawl goes on forever!"? Well, you're not wrong. Buckle up, because we're about to dive into the glorious, confusing, and sometimes frustrating vastness of the City of Angels.
Land of the Giants (Except for Those Tiny Apartments)
Los Angeles itself, not including the greater metropolitan area (which is basically everything from Santa Barbara to San Diego these days), clocks in at a whopping 469 square miles (1,214 square kilometers). That's bigger than some entire states (looking at you, Rhode Island, you adorable little fella).
Imagine fitting nearly all of Rhode Island into the area between Santa Monica and Downtown LA. There'd be a lot less beach traffic, but also way fewer Dunkin' Donuts, which is a dealbreaker for some folks.
But Wait, There's More! (Because LA Doesn't Do Anything Small)
Now, here's where things get a little murky. Los Angeles, like a city that can't decide what it wants to be for dinner, has a bit of an identity crisis when it comes to size. If you include all the water area within the city limits (because hey, Venice Beach is pretty darn big), then the total area bumps up to 502.7 square miles (1,302 square kilometers).
That's enough space to fit two Rhode Islands, with a little extra room for some Hollywood afterparties (because let's be honest, those things spill out onto the streets).
So, How Big is LA Really? It Depends on Who You Ask
Here's the truth: defining the size of LA depends on how you slice it. The city itself is undeniably large, but the sprawl of the greater metropolitan area makes it feel even bigger.
Think of it this way: If you're stuck in traffic on the 405, LA feels the size of Texas. But if you're poolside with a margarita in hand, LA might feel as cozy as your grandma's living room (until Uncle Steve shows up with his accordion, that is).
Ultimately, the size of LA is a matter of perspective. One thing's for sure, though: there's a whole lot of city to explore, whether you're a beach bum, a Hollywood hopeful, or just someone who needs a really big towel (because, let's face it, those California king-sized beds are no joke).
