Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA)

A metropolitan statistical area is an area containing a substantial population nucleus, together with adjacent communities having a high degree of economic and social integration with that core. According to the United States Census Bureau, each metropolitan statistical area must have at least one urbanized area of 50,000 or more inhabitants. Pending approval, this minimum population threshold will increase to 100,000 according to the recommendations of the Metropolitan and Micropolitan Statistical Area Standards Review Committee.

Source: Census Bureau.