Rome vs São Paulo - City Size Comparison

Is Rome Bigger Than São Paulo?

Yes — São Paulo is 1.2x larger than Rome by area. São Paulo spans 1,521 km² (587 mi²) while Rome covers 1,285 km² (496 mi²) — a difference of 236 km².

About Rome

Italy's capital and a city of ancient history. Known as "The Eternal City", Rome covers 1,285 km² with a population of 2.9 million. The city was founded around 753 BC. Rome is known for Colosseum, Vatican City, Trevi Fountain, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the Rome Metro.

Rome contains an entire independent country within its borders — Vatican City, the world's smallest state

About São Paulo

Brazil's largest city and financial center. Nicknamed "Sampa", São Paulo has an area of 1,521 km² and is home to 12.3 million people. The city dates back to 1554. Visitors come for Paulista Avenue, Ibirapuera Park, São Paulo Museum of Art, and much more. Getting around is easy with the São Paulo Metro.

São Paulo has the largest Japanese community outside Japan

Metropolitan Area Comparison

Looking beyond city limits, the São Paulo metropolitan area covers 7,947 km², which is 1.5x larger than greater Rome at 5,352 km². The São Paulo metro area is also more populous, with 22.0 million people compared to 4.3 million.

Population Density

Rome has a population density of 2,233 people per km² — a moderately dense city. São Paulo, with 8,107 people per km², is a densely populated city. São Paulo is dramatically more crowded, with 3.6x the population density.

Climate & Time Zone

Rome has a Mediterranean climate while São Paulo experiences humid subtropical conditions. When it's noon in Rome, it's 8:00 AM in São Paulo — a 4-hour time difference.