Which urban pattern is usually found in small cities rather than in larger metropolitan areas?

The rectilinear urban pattern is typically associated with small cities due to its simplicity and efficiency in layout. This pattern features streets organized in a grid-like configuration, which makes navigation straightforward and enables easy expansion. Small cities often develop with a more compact form, making a rectilinear layout practical for managing urban growth while providing accessibility to essential services.

In contrast, larger metropolitan areas may exhibit more complex patterns, influenced by historical development, geographic constraints, and varying land uses. For instance, radial or star patterns tend to arise in regions with significant transportation networks radiating from a central point, which is more characteristic of larger cities.

The linear urban pattern can also appear in both small and large cities, particularly along transportation routes; however, it does not showcase the same degree of organization as the rectilinear layout. Therefore, while both small and larger urban areas can display diverse patterns, the rectilinear layout’s efficiency and simplicity align best with the characteristics of small cities.