ABSTRACT
America’s micropolitan cities may be broadly categorized into three types. The distinctions begin with their geography but spread to economic and social descriptors as well. The first type includes those cities that are suburbs of much larger cities and regions. The second grouping represents cities distant enough from larger cities to serve as hubs for retail, medical, educational, cultural, and other needs for the wider region. Generally speaking, it is safe to conclude that the greater the isolation of the micropolitan community, the greater the emphasis needed on rail lines, road networks, regional air service, and telecommunications infrastructure.
