North America is one of the world’s most diverse continents, both geographically and culturally, covering an immense range of climates, landscapes, and histories. From the icy expanses of the Canadian Arctic to the tropical rainforests of Central America, the continent is home to nations that are not only significant in size but also play crucial roles in global politics, economics, and tourism. Here’s a detailed look at the 15 largest countries in North America by land area.
15 Largest Countries in North America by Area
Canada – Canada is the largest country in North America and the second largest in the world, spanning over 9.98 million square kilometers. Known for its vast wilderness, national parks, multicultural cities, and strong economy, it is a leader in natural resource production and environmental conservation.
United States – The United States ranks second in size on the continent, covering 9.83 million square kilometers. It is a global powerhouse with influential cultural exports, advanced technology, and diverse landscapes ranging from deserts to mountains and lush coastlines.
Greenland – Technically part of the Kingdom of Denmark, Greenland covers 2.16 million square kilometers, making it the largest island in the world. It is famous for its ice sheet, fjords, and indigenous Inuit culture.
Mexico – Mexico occupies 1.96 million square kilometers and is known for its rich history, vibrant cities, ancient civilizations such as the Aztecs and Mayans, and stunning beaches along both the Pacific Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.
Nicaragua – Covering 130,373 square kilometers, Nicaragua is Central America’s largest country, known for its volcanic landscapes, freshwater lakes, and colonial cities.
Honduras – Honduras has an area of 112,492 square kilometers and offers a mix of Caribbean coastline, mountainous interiors, and archaeological treasures like the Copán ruins.
Cuba – The largest island nation in the Caribbean, Cuba spans 109,884 square kilometers and is known for its colonial architecture, salsa music, and political history.
Guatemala – Guatemala, at 108,889 square kilometers, boasts stunning volcanic landscapes, ancient Mayan sites, and a rich indigenous heritage.
Panama – With an area of 75,417 square kilometers, Panama is globally known for the Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, as well as its tropical biodiversity.
Costa Rica – Costa Rica covers 51,100 square kilometers and is celebrated for its rainforests, eco-tourism industry, and stable democracy.
Dominican Republic – Spanning 48,671 square kilometers, this Caribbean nation shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti and is known for its beaches and vibrant culture.
Haiti – Haiti occupies 27,750 square kilometers and has a rich cultural history despite facing economic and environmental challenges.
Belize – Covering 22,966 square kilometers, Belize is famous for its coral reefs, Mayan ruins, and English-speaking population.
El Salvador – The smallest country in Central America, El Salvador covers 21,041 square kilometers and is known for its Pacific beaches and volcanic scenery.
Jamaica – Jamaica, with an area of 10,991 square kilometers, is known worldwide for reggae music, lush mountains, and vibrant tourism.
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Top 15 Largest Countries in North America – Location and Area
| Country | Location | Area (km²) |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | Northern North America | 9,984,670 |
| United States | Central & Southern North America | 9,525,067 |
| Greenland (Denmark) | Arctic & North Atlantic | 2,166,086 |
| Mexico | Southern North America | 1,964,375 |
| Nicaragua | Central America | 130,375 |
| Honduras | Central America | 112,492 |
| Cuba | Caribbean | 109,884 |
| Guatemala | Central America | 108,889 |
| Panama | Central America | 75,417 |
| Costa Rica | Central America | 51,100 |
| Dominican Republic | Caribbean | 48,671 |
| Haiti | Caribbean | 27,750 |
| Belize | Central America | 22,966 |
| El Salvador | Central America | 21,041 |
| Jamaica | Caribbean | 10,991 |
North America’s largest countries highlight the continent’s incredible diversity, from icy Arctic landscapes to sun-soaked beaches, from ancient ruins to modern cities. Understanding the scale and variety of these nations gives a deeper appreciation of how geography, culture, and history shape the region
Largest Countries in North America – Capital and Major cities
| Country | Capital | Major Cities |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | Ottawa | Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal |
| United States | Washington, D.C. | New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago |
| Greenland | Nuuk | Sisimiut, Ilulissat, Qaqortoq |
| Mexico | Mexico City | Guadalajara, Monterrey, Puebla |
| Nicaragua | Managua | León, Granada, Masaya |
| Honduras | Tegucigalpa | San Pedro Sula, La Ceiba, Choloma |
| Cuba | Havana | Santiago de Cuba, Camagüey, Holguín |
| Guatemala | Guatemala City | Quetzaltenango, Antigua, Escuintla |
| Panama | Panama City | Colón, David, Santiago |
| Costa Rica | San José | Limón, Alajuela, Heredia |
| Dominican Republic | Santo Domingo | Santiago de los Caballeros, La Romana, San Pedro de Macorís |
| Haiti | Port-au-Prince | Cap-Haïtien, Les Cayes, Gonaïves |
| Belize | Belmopan | Belize City, San Ignacio, Orange Walk Town |
| El Salvador | San Salvador | Santa Ana, San Miguel, Soyapango |
| Jamaica | Kingston | Montego Bay, Spanish Town, Portmore |
FAQ
1. Which is the largest country in North America by land area?
The largest country in North America is Canada, stretching across an impressive 9.98 million square kilometers. It is known for its vast natural landscapes, countless lakes, and friendly cities, making it both geographically and culturally significant.
2. How many countries are in North America?
North America is made up of 23 countries, which include large nations like Canada, the United States, and Mexico, as well as smaller island nations in the Caribbean such as Jamaica and Barbados.
3. What is the most populous country in North America?
The United States holds the record as the most populous country in North America, with over 330 million residents. Its large population and economic power make it one of the most influential nations in the world.
4. Which North American country has the most islands?
Canada tops the list when it comes to the number of islands. It has thousands, ranging from massive landmasses like Baffin Island to countless smaller ones scattered along its coastline.
5. Which is the smallest country in North America?
The title of the smallest country goes to Saint Kitts and Nevis, a charming two-island nation covering just 261 square kilometers, yet rich in history and tropical beauty.
6. What is the busiest city in North America?
When it comes to business, tourism, and cultural activity, New York City takes the lead. Known as “The City That Never Sleeps,” it is a hub for finance, entertainment, and global trade.