American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which city had a population density of 6,423 people per kilometer according to the 2000 census?

1. New York

2. San Francisco

3. Miami

4. Los Angeles

The correct answer is: San Francisco

San Francisco had a population density of 6,423 people per square kilometer according to the 2000 census. This figure is indicative of San Francisco's urban layout and geographic characteristics, including its compact development due to the city's limited land area surrounded by water and hills. High population densities often correlate with vibrant urban cores that provide access to amenities, public transportation, and employment opportunities, which San Francisco exemplifies. Cities like New York, Miami, and Los Angeles, while also having significant urban populations, exhibit different densities due to their unique spatial dynamics, land use patterns, and geographic constraints. New York, for example, has areas with much higher densities, but it averages differently across its boroughs, particularly with wide variations between neighborhoods. Miami, although urban, has a lower density compared to San Francisco because it encompasses a larger area with more suburban sprawl. Los Angeles is characterized by its extensive spread and lower overall density, which is typical of cities designed around a car culture. San Francisco's density reflects its status as a highly urbanized area with limited space for expansion.