Amsterdam vs Boston - City Size Comparison

Is Amsterdam Bigger Than Boston?

In terms of area, Boston is 1.1x the size of Amsterdam. Boston spans 232 km² (90 mi²) while Amsterdam covers 219 km² (85 mi²) — a difference of 13 km².

About Amsterdam

Capital of the Netherlands, known for its canals. Known as "Venice of the North", Amsterdam covers 219 km² with a population of 0.9 million. The city was established in 1275. Amsterdam is known for Canal ring, Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the GVB (Metro & Tram).

Amsterdam sits 2 meters below sea level and is protected by an elaborate system of dikes and pumping stations

About Boston

A historic city and academic center in the northeastern US. Also known as "Beantown", Boston has an area of 232 km² and is home to 0.7 million people. It was established in 1630. Visitors come for Harvard & MIT, Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, and much more. Getting around is easy with the MBTA (The T).

Boston's subway system (the T) opened in 1897, making it the oldest subway in North America

Metropolitan Area Comparison

Looking beyond city limits, the Boston metropolitan area covers 11,700 km², which is 4.5x larger than greater Amsterdam at 2,580 km². The Boston metro area is also more populous, with 4.9 million people compared to 2.5 million.

Population Density

Amsterdam has a population density of 4,201 people per km² — a moderately dense city. Boston, with 2,931 people per km², is a moderately dense city. Both cities have comparable density, though Amsterdam is slightly more compact.

Climate & Time Zone

Amsterdam has a oceanic climate while Boston experiences humid continental conditions. When it's noon in Amsterdam, it's 6:00 AM in Boston — a 6-hour time difference.