Moscow vs Washington D.C. - City Size Comparison

Is Moscow Bigger Than Washington D.C.?

Yes — Moscow is 14.2x larger than Washington D.C. by area. Moscow spans 2,511 km² (970 mi²) while Washington D.C. covers 177 km² (68 mi²) — a difference of 2,334 km². You could fit Washington D.C. inside Moscow approximately 14 times.

About Moscow

Russia's capital and largest city. Known as "The Third Rome", Moscow covers 2,511 km² with a population of 12.5 million. The city was established in 1147. Moscow is known for The Kremlin, Red Square, Saint Basil's Cathedral, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the Moscow Metro.

Moscow's metro stations are considered some of the most beautiful in the world, often called 'underground palaces'

About Washington D.C.

Capital of the United States. Also known as "D.C.", Washington D.C. has an area of 177 km² and is home to 0.7 million people. The city dates back to 1790. Visitors come for The White House, Lincoln Memorial, Smithsonian museums, and much more. Getting around is easy with the Washington Metro.

D.C. has more free museums than any other city in the US — all 19 Smithsonian museums charge no admission

Metropolitan Area Comparison

Looking beyond city limits, the Washington D.C. metropolitan area covers 14,412 km², which is 2.4x larger than greater Moscow at 5,891 km². The Moscow metro area is also more populous, with 17.1 million people compared to 6.3 million.

Population Density

Moscow has a population density of 4,994 people per km² — a moderately dense city. Washington D.C., with 3,898 people per km², is a moderately dense city. Both cities have comparable density, though Moscow is slightly more compact.

Climate & Time Zone

Moscow has a humid continental climate while Washington D.C. experiences humid subtropical conditions. When it's noon in Moscow, it's 4:00 AM in Washington D.C. — a 8-hour time difference.