Which statement about metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) is true?

• A. At least a city with 25k population
• B. At least a city with 50k or more and a total metropolitan population of 100k
• C. At least a city with 100k population
• D. At least a city with 10k population and a total metro population of 50k

Answer: (B)

Metropolitan statistical areas are defined by a core urban zone of 50,000 or more people, plus adjacent areas tied to that core with a combined metropolitan population of at least 100,000. This ensures the region has a substantial urban center and economic integration across the area. The statement that specifies a core of 50,000+ and a total metropolitan population of 100,000 exactly matches this definition. The other options miss the required thresholds: one uses a smaller core (25,000) or (10,000) and would describe micropolitan areas, not MSAs, while another implies a 100,000 core or a total of only 50,000, which do not meet the official criteria for MSAs.