The Largest US City on the Border with Mexico: El Paso, Texas
When discussing the largest U.S. city located on the southwestern border with Mexico, one city immediately comes to mind: El Paso, Texas. As of the 2020 census, El Paso had a population of approximately 678,000 residents, making it the largest city along the U.S.-Mexico border. It is strategically located just a short distance from Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, directly across the international border.
Geographical Context
The proximity of El Paso to Mexico is notable, with the city being in close proximity to several other major locations within the region.
El Paso: This city lies closest to the border, with a central downtown area being approximately 15 minutes' walking distance from the border crossing. However, it's important to note that, strictly speaking, the city center is not built next to the border, but rather a few minutes to the north of it. San Diego, California: While San Diego is also a major city in the area, it is a bit further back, with the city center being about half an hour's drive from the border. The El Paso section of San Diego, actually split by Chula Vista, California, is on the other side of the border. Los Angeles, California: This metropolis, while within range of El Paso, is significantly farther away, typically requiring a long road trip to reach.First Look at the Border
A visual inspection of El Paso reveals the close proximity to Ciudad Juárez. The border runs directly through the heart of the city. A clear demarcation can be seen in the downtown area, where the border cuts right between two prominent landmarks:
The large red "X" on the Juárez side. A nearby whitish water tower.Historical Foundations
El Paso's foundation is deeply rooted in history, dating back to the early 1600s. Originally known as El Paso del Norte (The Passage of the North), the city was established long before the formation of modern-day Mexico and the United States. This strategic positioning has allowed the city to thrive as a bustling international community, with significant trade and cultural exchange between the two nations.
Integrating Twin Cities
Together, El Paso and Ciudad Juárez form a massive urban area, home to over 2 million people. The true twin cities combine to create a unique environment where residents cross the border daily for work, shopping, and social activities. Before the "fall of the Berlin Wall," Berlin held the distinction of being the largest completely international city. However, today, the relationship between El Paso and Ciudad Juárez makes them perhaps the largest internationally integrated city in the world.
Can You See the Border?
From certain vantage points, you can easily observe the international border. For example, a bird's-eye view from the downtown area will clearly show the dividing line. The border runs directly through the city, separating Juárez from El Paso.
Looking from Juárez, there is no fence, and the cities are built right up to the river, which is the border itself. The water tower in Juárez is nearby, and you can see the riverbank on the El Paso side.
Conclusion
The significance of El Paso, Texas, as the largest city on the U.S.-Mexico border cannot be overstated. Its rich history, strategic location, and the international nature of its twin city neighbor make it a unique and bustling hub of trade and culture. Whether you're considering the demographics or the mingling of cultures, El Paso stands out as a crucial and vibrant part of the United States-Mexico border region.