America Size Compared to Australia: Things to Know

Have you ever wondered about America size compared to Australia in terms of land, population, and lifestyle? Both nations are vast, offering incredible landscapes, diverse cultures, and vibrant opportunities. While the U.S. might boast big cities and fast-paced living, Australia’s relaxed vibe and stunning natural beauty draw millions of visitors and migrants each year.

Today, we’re diving into a detailed comparison guide to help you decide whether you want to study, travel, or even settle in one of these remarkable countries. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of what each has to offer, making your decision that much easier. Let’s start!

Land Area: America Size Compared to Australia, Who’s Got More Space?

When it comes to sheer land area, both the USA and Australia are among the largest countries in the world. But how does America size compared to Australia?

• USA: Spans approximately 9.8 million square kilometres (3.8 million square miles), making it the third-largest country in the world by land area.
• Australia: Covers around 7.7 million square kilometres (about 2.97 million square miles), putting it in sixth place globally.

Despite the USA being larger, Australia feels more spacious, thanks to its lower population density. While Americans spread across bustling cities, suburban sprawls, and rural towns, Australians enjoy wide-open spaces and a deep connection to the land.

Population: A Tale of Density

America Size Compared to Australia, about populations. Here’s where the real difference lies. Both countries may have significant landmasses, but their populations tell a different story:

The United States is home to over 331 million residents, resulting in a population density of approximately 36 people per square kilometre. In contrast, Australia, with its population of about 26 million, has a far lower density of just 3 people per square kilometre. This stark difference highlights how Australia’s population is concentrated in coastal cities like Sydney and Melbourne, while much of the interior, known as the Outback, remains sparsely populated. Meanwhile, the U.S. features a more evenly spread population across its urban hubs, regional towns, and countryside.

In Australia, most people live along the coastlines, especially in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. The vast interior—fondly known as the Outback—is largely uninhabited. By contrast, the U.S. has thriving urban centres spread across the country, from New York to Los Angeles.

Job Vacancies and Salaries

Both nations offer diverse job opportunities, but the fields and salaries vary significantly, reflecting their unique economies and industries. In the United States, the tech sector is a major driver of employment, with hubs like Silicon Valley offering lucrative roles in software engineering, data science, and artificial intelligence. These roles often come with high salaries, with software engineers earning an average of USD 120,000 annually. Other thriving industries include finance, healthcare, and entertainment, particularly in cities like New York and Los Angeles.

Australia, on the other hand, is renowned for its strong mining, healthcare, and education sectors. Mining professionals, especially in Western Australia and Queensland, often earn salaries exceeding AUD 120,000 per year, reflecting the importance of natural resources to the Australian economy. Healthcare and education also provide stable and well-paying roles, with nurses and teachers receiving competitive compensation. Additionally, Australia’s fair work system ensures one of the highest minimum wages globally, at AUD 23.23 per hour for casual workers as of 2023.

While both countries provide ample opportunities for career growth, the U.S. tends to focus on innovation-driven roles in tech and finance, while Australia excels in industries tied to its natural resources, healthcare, and education. For job seekers, understanding these differences is crucial to finding the right fit based on their skills and aspirations.

University Education

Education is a cornerstone of both the United States and Australia, with each country boasting world-class universities and offering unique opportunities for students. Both nations attract learners from across the globe who seek high-quality programs, a wide range of courses, and enriching cultural experiences.

In the USA, the education system is synonymous with prestige, hosting globally recognised institutions like Harvard University, Stanford University, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). These universities consistently rank among the top in the world, excelling in areas such as business, engineering, and the sciences. However, pursuing higher education in the U.S. can be quite expensive, with tuition fees ranging from USD 20,000 to over USD 50,000 per year for international students. That said, scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs are widely available, making study in the U.S. a possibility for many. Additionally, the lively campus life, complete with sports teams, clubs, and societies, adds to the appeal and helps prepare students for competitive job markets.

Top 10 Universities in the USA

1. Harvard University (Massachusetts) : World-renowned for law, business, and medical programs.
2. Stanford University (California) : Known for innovation in technology, engineering, and entrepreneurship.
3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (Massachusetts) : The leading institution for science, technology, and engineering.
4. University of Chicago (Illinois) : Renowned for its economics and political science programs.
5. California Institute of Technology (Caltech) (California) : Specialises in natural sciences and engineering.
6. Princeton University (New Jersey) : Famous for humanities, social sciences, and theoretical physics.
7. Columbia University (New York) : Known for journalism, business, and public affairs.
8. Yale University (Connecticut) : Offers strong programs in law, arts, and social sciences.
9. University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) (California) : Renowned for engineering, computer science, and environmental sciences.
10. University of Pennsylvania (Penn) (Pennsylvania) : Home to the Wharton School, a top business school globally.

Meanwhile in Australia, the higher education sector is equally renowned, with universities such as the University of Melbourne, Australian National University (ANU), and the University of Sydney ranking among the world’s best. These institutions are celebrated for their research excellence and strong connections to industries, particularly in areas like environmental sciences, health, and engineering. Australian students benefit from the government’s Higher Education Loan Programme (HELP), which allows them to defer their tuition fees and repay them once they start earning a sufficient income. 

For international students, Australia offers more than just academic excellence—it’s also the promise of a laid-back lifestyle, a safe environment, and generous post-study work rights that enable them to stay and gain industry experience. These work rights often serve as a pathway to skilled migration and permanent residency. America Size Compared to Australia.

Top 10 Universities in Australia

1. Australian National University (ANU) (Canberra) : Known for research and programs in political science, international relations, and sciences.
2. University of Melbourne (Melbourne, Victoria) : Renowned for law, arts, and medical studies.
3. University of Sydney (Sydney, New South Wales) : Famous for health sciences, business, and engineering.
4. University of Queensland (UQ) (Brisbane, Queensland): Strong in life sciences, agriculture, and psychology.
5. Monash University (Melbourne, Victoria) : Offers outstanding pharmacy, medical, and engineering programs.
6. University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) (Sydney, New South Wales) : Known for business, law, and engineering.
7. University of Western Australia (UWA) (Perth, Western Australia) : Specialises in earth sciences, marine biology, and engineering.
8. University of Adelaide (Adelaide, South Australia) : Strong programs in dentistry, agriculture, and computer sciences.
9. University of Technology Sydney (UTS) (Sydney, New South Wales) : Focuses on innovation in business, IT, and design.
10. Macquarie University (Sydney, New South Wales) : Known for actuarial sciences, linguistics, and earth sciences.

While U.S. universities often emphasise global networking opportunities and cutting-edge research, Australian institutions are known for their practical approach to learning, smaller class sizes, and a focus on work-life balance. With stunning campuses, cultural diversity, and a friendly atmosphere, Australian universities are an excellent choice for students seeking a top-tier education and a uniquely Aussie experience. 

Ultimately, whether you prefer the fast-paced life of American colleges or the relaxed, student-friendly vibe of Australian universities, both countries provide exceptional pathways to success.

Climate and Natural Beauty

America Size Compared to Australia, both countries enjoy diverse climates, but their geography creates unique experiences. In the USA, the climate ranges from the arctic tundra of Alaska to the tropical beaches of Hawaii, offering stark contrasts. The Midwest is notorious for its extreme weather, including powerful tornadoes, while the West Coast benefits from a more temperate climate, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. 

While Australia’s climate is predominantly arid or semi-arid, with vast deserts and dry shrublands dominating much of the interior. The tropical rainforests in the north bring lush greenery and heavy rainfall, while the southeast enjoys temperate conditions, making it ideal for agriculture and urban living. The southwest features Mediterranean weather, perfect for vineyards and coastal escapes. Summers in Australia can be scorching, especially in the Outback, but the coastal regions provide a welcome relief with comfortable year-round temperatures. America Size Compared to Australia, about climate.

Travel Destinations: Must-Visit Spots

When comparing America Size Compared to Australia, it’s fascinating to see how their geography influences must-visit travel destinations.

Exploring either country means diving into unique landscapes, cultures, and experiences. But which would you fancy for your next adventure? Would you prefer the iconic landmarks and bustling cities of the United States or the stunning natural wonders and relaxed vibe of Australia?

Here are 10 must-see destinations from each:

USA Travel Gems

1. Grand Canyon (Arizona): One of the world’s natural wonders, showcasing breathtaking rock formations.
2. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming): Home to geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife.
3. New York City (New York): A cultural hub with landmarks like Times Square and the Statue of Liberty.
4. Disneyland (California): The ultimate family destination.
5. Las Vegas (Nevada): A vibrant nightlife and entertainment mecca.
6. Hawaii Islands: Known for pristine beaches and volcanic landscapes.
7. Chicago (Illinois): Famous for its skyline, deep-dish pizza, and jazz music.
8. Miami (Florida): A mix of beaches, nightlife, and Cuban culture.
9. Washington D.C.: The nation’s capital, filled with iconic monuments and museums.
10. Alaska’s Denali National Park: A remote wilderness perfect for adventure seekers.

Australia’s Must-Visit Places

1. Great Barrier Reef (Queensland): The world’s largest coral reef system, teeming with marine life.
2. Sydney Opera House (New South Wales): An architectural marvel and cultural icon.
3. Uluru (Northern Territory): A sacred rock formation with deep spiritual significance.
4. Great Ocean Road (Victoria): Stunning coastal views and the Twelve Apostles.
5. Daintree Rainforest (Queensland): One of the oldest rainforests on Earth.
6. Tasmania’s Freycinet National Park: Pristine beaches and rugged wilderness.
7. Kangaroo Island (South Australia): Abundant wildlife and untouched natural beauty.
8. Whitsundays (Queensland): A group of idyllic islands perfect for sailing.
9. Melbourne’s Laneways: Known for street art, cafes, and boutique shops.
10. Rottnest Island (Western Australia): Famous for its adorable quokkas and serene beaches.

Lifestyle: Relaxed vs Fast-Paced

Australia is known for its laid-back culture, with locals valuing work-life balance and outdoor living. The United States, on the other hand, is often associated with a “hustle” mentality, where careers take centre stage.

Whether you’re planning a trip, considering a job move, or just curious about how these two countries compare, both have unique strengths. The U.S. is a land of opportunity, diversity, and innovation, while Australia offers space, natural beauty, and a high quality of life.

By exploring America Size Compared to Australia, along with their population, job opportunities, and travel destinations, you can see how each country offers unique strengths and experiences. So, whether it’s the skyscrapers of New York or the beaches of Bondi, the choice is yours—where will your next adventure take you?