Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Area

A Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Area (CMSA) is a geographic designation used in the United States to define a large urban area that includes multiple adjacent metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) that have strong economic and social ties. The CMSA is characterized by its interconnected communities, transportation networks, and shared services. This classification is useful for understanding population trends, economic development, and regional planning. However, the use of the CMSA designation has decreased since the introduction of the Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) and Micropolitan Statistical Area (µSA) designations by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).