Berlin vs Chicago - City Size Comparison

Is Berlin Bigger Than Chicago?

Yes — Berlin is 1.5x larger than Chicago by area. Berlin spans 892 km² (344 mi²) while Chicago covers 606 km² (234 mi²) — a difference of 286 km².

About Berlin

Germany's capital and largest city. Known as "The Grey City", Berlin covers 892 km² with a population of 3.6 million. The city was established in 1237. Berlin is known for Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall remnants, Museum Island, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the BVG (U-Bahn & S-Bahn).

Berlin has more bridges than Venice — over 1,700 compared to Venice's 400

About Chicago

Third-largest city in the United States. Also known as "The Windy City", Chicago has an area of 606 km² and is home to 2.7 million people. The city dates back to 1833. Visitors come for Deep-dish pizza, Willis Tower, Millennium Park & Cloud Gate, and much more. Getting around is easy with the CTA (L train).

Chicago reversed the flow of the Chicago River in 1900, an engineering feat that still stands

Metropolitan Area Comparison

Looking beyond city limits, the Chicago metropolitan area covers 28,160 km², which is 7.5x larger than greater Berlin at 3,743 km². The Chicago metro area is also more populous, with 9.5 million people compared to 6.1 million.

Population Density

Berlin has a population density of 4,092 people per km² — a moderately dense city. Chicago, with 4,455 people per km², is a moderately dense city. Both cities have comparable density, though Chicago is slightly more compact.

Climate & Time Zone

Berlin has a oceanic climate while Chicago experiences humid continental conditions. When it's noon in Berlin, it's 5:00 AM in Chicago — a 7-hour time difference.