The question “what is the highest city in the world?” sounds simple, but the answer depends on how “highest” is defined. Are we talking about absolute altitude? Permanent population? Or cities with full urban infrastructure?
Some settlements sit at breathtaking elevations, yet remain small mining towns. Others, though slightly lower, support hundreds of thousands of residents. In this article, we’ll clarify the definitions, identify the most widely recognized record holders, and explain why rankings can vary.
What Is The Highest City In The World?
When discussing the highest city in the world, two interpretations usually appear:
- Highest by altitude (above sea level)
- Highest by population at high altitude
Because of this distinction, different cities often claim different “highest” titles.
Which City Is Recognized As The Highest?
By elevation, the title most often goes to La Rinconada.
- Altitude: ~5,100 meters (16,700 feet)
- Location: Peruvian Andes
- Population: Estimated 30,000–50,000
La Rinconada is a high-altitude mining settlement often cited as the highest permanently inhabited town or urban settlement in the world. Its extreme altitude makes it the highest permanently inhabited city commonly cited in geographic records.
However, life here is harsh. Low oxygen levels, freezing temperatures, and limited infrastructure make it very different from a typical urban environment.
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How “Highest City” Is Defined (Altitude Vs Population)
Not every high-altitude settlement qualifies as a “city” in the traditional sense. Some rankings exclude:
- Small villages
- Temporary mining camps
- Locations without full municipal systems
Others focus only on cities with significant populations and developed infrastructure. This is where alternative record holders enter the conversation.
Highest Altitude City In The World
La Rinconada is the most frequently cited example in discussions about the highest permanently inhabited settlement.
Its elevation exceeds that of many Himalayan base camps. At over 5,000 meters, oxygen levels are roughly half of those at sea level. New arrivals often experience altitude sickness, fatigue, and breathing difficulty.
Despite these conditions, thousands live and work there year-round, primarily due to mining activity.
Highest Populated City In The World
When population becomes the deciding factor, the answer usually shifts to El Alto.
- Altitude: ~4,150 meters (13,615 feet)
- Population: Over 1 million
- Neighboring city: La Paz
El Alto sits on the Altiplano plateau above La Paz and is often considered the highest populated city in the world. Unlike smaller extreme-altitude towns, El Alto functions as a major urban center with extensive neighborhoods, businesses, schools, and transportation systems.
Difference Between Small High Cities And Large High Cities
The contrast between La Rinconada and El Alto highlights an important difference.
La Rinconada holds the altitude record but remains relatively small and economically specialized. El Alto, though lower, supports a massive and diverse population.
This distinction explains why one city is called the highest city in the world, while another is labeled the most populous high-altitude city in the world.
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Why Population Matters In High-Altitude Rankings
Population size affects:
- Infrastructure development
- Healthcare availability
- Transportation networks
- Economic diversity
Cities with larger populations typically offer more stable living conditions, even at high elevations. That’s why El Alto often receives more attention in discussions about sustainable high-altitude urban life.
FAQs
What Is The Highest City In The World By Altitude?
La Rinconada, Peru, at approximately 5,100 meters above sea level, is widely cited as the highest permanently inhabited settlement.
What Is The Highest Populated City In The World?
El Alto, Bolivia, with over one million residents at around 4,150 meters.
Can Tourists Visit The Highest Cities Safely?
Yes, but visitors should acclimatize gradually and consult medical advice when traveling to extreme elevations. Some high-altitude settlements have limited tourist infrastructure.
Conclusion
So, what is the highest city in the world?
- By altitude: La Rinconada, Peru
- By a large population at a high altitude: El Alto, Bolivia
Both answers are correct depending on the criteria. Understanding whether altitude or population is being measured clears up most confusion surrounding the title.
