New York City (NYC)
Population and Geography

In the early centuries of NYC's history, geography had a major influence. Manhattan, especially the southern part, was the epicenter, and Manhattan is an island. Since there were limits to expansion horizontally, the city had to grow vertically - and it did. It also expanded to the closer sections of Brooklyn, and then beyond.

The commercial orientation of the founders of New Amsterdam intended trade. That meant jobs. That, in turn, attracted immigrants. Thus, a virtuous cycle began. Immigrants, workers, trade, manufacturing, warehousing, shipping, both waterborne and overland more immigrants, financial services, expeditors, business services, eventually, headquarters.

The immigrants brought their cultures, work ethic, skills, cuisine, languages, religions and adaptability. New York drew on all these and prospered. In the hundred years from the early 19th to the early 20th century, 75 percent of all immigrants to the U.S. came through NYC. Diversity proved to be a huge advantage.

This diversity continues. Close to 40 percent of resident New Yorkers were born abroad in over 80 countries. Fewer than 49 percent of New Yorkers only speak English at home. They support 99 foreign language and ethnic newspapers. They live in 292 recognized neighborhoods, most of which began as small settlements or villages that were eventually swallowed up by the city.

Relevant data for current and recent years is included below.