AICP Functional Areas of Planning Practice Test

Which statement about metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) is true?

At least one city with 25k or more and a total metropolitan population of 50k

At least one city with 75k or more and a total metropolitan population of 200k

At least one city with 100k or more and a total metropolitan population of 500k

At least one city with 50k or more and a total metropolitan population of 100k

Metropolitan statistical areas are defined by a core urban area of at least 50,000 people plus surrounding areas that contribute to a total metropolitan population of at least 100,000. The statement that matches these official minimum thresholds is the one that says: at least one city with 50,000 or more and a total metropolitan population of 100,000 or more. The other options set thresholds that are either below the standard core size or above the minimum in ways that aren’t the defining rule for MSAs.