Explore USA Canada map showing all the first level administrative divisions of Canada and the United States with international and continent boundaries with national capitals. The United States and Canada are two of the largest countries in North America, sharing an undefended border spanning 8,891 kilometers (5,525 miles). The United States, with a land area of 9.8 million square kilometers (3.8 million square miles) and a population of 331 million, has the world’s largest economy at $26.7 trillion. Canada, slightly larger at 9.98 million square kilometers (3.85 million square miles), has a population of 38 million and a GDP of $2.2 trillion. Together, they account for annual bilateral trade exceeding $700 billion, underscoring their economic and political significance.
Explore USA Canada map showing iternational political boundaries with internal political boundaries with in the United States and Canada.
Comparison: Canada and the United States
Country Comparison: United States vs. Canada
Category
United States
Canada
Land Area
9.8 million square kilometers (3.8 million square miles)
9.98 million square kilometers (3.85 million square miles)
Population (2023)
331 million
38 million
GDP (Nominal)
$26.7 trillion
$2.2 trillion
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Official Languages
English (no official language at the federal level, but widely spoken)
English and French
Capital City
Washington, D.C.
Ottawa
Largest City
New York City
Toronto
Border Length
8,891 kilometers (5,525 miles)
Natural Resources
Oil, coal, natural gas, timber, agriculture
Oil, natural gas, minerals, timber
Climate
Diverse (tropical in Hawaii, arctic in Alaska, temperate in most regions)
Predominantly cold winters and warm summers, with varied climate zones
Annual Trade Between Nations
Over $700 billion
Political System
Federal presidential constitutional republic
Federal parliamentary constitutional monarchy
Military Strength
World's most powerful military
Peacekeeping-focused, ranks lower in global military strength
Global Rankings
3rd largest by land area, 1st by economy
2nd largest by land area, 9th by economy
Geography of US and Canada
The geography of the United States and Canada, two of the largest countries in the world, is incredibly diverse, spanning vast landscapes that include mountains, forests, plains, and coastlines. Together, these nations cover much of the North American continent and share many geographical features, while also having unique distinctions in terms of climate, topography, and natural resources.
Land Area and Borders
The United States and Canada are the second and third largest countries in the world by total area, respectively, with Canada covering approximately 9.98 million square kilometers (3.85 million square miles) and the United States covering around 9.83 million square kilometers (3.8 million square miles). Both countries share the world's longest undefended border, stretching for over 8,891 kilometers (5,525 miles), including the boundary between Alaska and Canada. This extensive border is significant for trade, environmental cooperation, and security.
While the U.S. and Canada are comparable in size, Canada's population density is much lower than that of the U.S. Canada has a population of about 38 million people, compared to 331 million in the United States, resulting in vast areas of Canada being sparsely populated, particularly in the northern territories.
Mountain Ranges and Topography
Both countries are home to extensive mountain ranges, though they vary in location and characteristics.
In the United States, the Rocky Mountains dominate much of the western landscape, running from New Mexico through Colorado and Wyoming, into Montana, and continuing into Canada. The highest peak in the U.S., Denali (formerly Mount McKinley) in Alaska, rises to 6,190 meters (20,310 feet), making it the tallest peak in North America.
Canada’s portion of the Rocky Mountains stretches through Alberta and British Columbia. In addition to the Rockies, Canada is home to the Canadian Shield, a vast area of exposed Precambrian rock that covers parts of Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, and extends into the Arctic.
The Appalachian Mountains in the eastern U.S. and the Laurentian Mountains in southeastern Canada are smaller, older mountain ranges that run along the eastern part of the continent. The Appalachians stretch from Alabama to Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada, while the Laurentians are largely confined to Quebec.
The United States also features the Sierra Nevada and Cascade ranges in the west, home to iconic peaks like Mount Whitney and Mount Rainier. Meanwhile, Canada's Coastal Mountains, found along the western coast of British Columbia, are known for their rugged beauty and are home to Mount Waddington, one of Canada’s tallest mountains.
Plains and Lowlands
Both nations also share vast expanses of plains and lowlands, which are important for agriculture.
The Great Plains in the United States extend from the Texas Panhandle through states like Kansas, Nebraska, and the Dakotas, continuing into southern Canada, where they are referred to as the Canadian Prairies. These plains are essential to both countries' economies, as they represent some of the most productive agricultural areas in North America, particularly for wheat, corn, and soybeans.
In Canada, the Interior Plains cover much of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, merging into the Great Plains to the south. This region is also important for natural resources, including oil and gas extraction.
Rivers and Lakes
The United States and Canada share numerous river systems and lakes, which play crucial roles in transportation, commerce, and ecology.
The Mississippi River, at 3,766 kilometers (2,340 miles) long, is the second-longest river in North America, flowing from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Its basin covers more than 1.2 million square miles, influencing a significant portion of the United States' agricultural and industrial output.
Canada’s longest river, the Mackenzie River, flows for 4,241 kilometers (2,635 miles) through the Northwest Territories, emptying into the Arctic Ocean. The St. Lawrence River, meanwhile, serves as an essential waterway connecting the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean and is crucial for trade between the U.S. and Canada.
The two countries share the Great Lakes, the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world by total area. These five lakes—Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario—cover more than 244,000 square kilometers (94,250 square miles) and contain about 84% of North America’s surface fresh water. Lake Superior is the largest of the lakes, covering 82,000 square kilometers (31,700 square miles), and is shared by both countries.
Climate Differences
The geography of the U.S. and Canada leads to considerable climate variation between the two nations.
The United States spans a wide range of climate zones, from the tropical climate of southern Florida and Hawaii to the arctic conditions of Alaska. The country experiences a variety of climates, including the Mediterranean climate of California, the desert climates of the Southwest, and the continental climate of the Midwest and Northeast.
Canada, on the other hand, is largely characterized by a continental climate, with cold winters and mild summers in most regions. However, Canada’s northern territories experience an arctic climate, where temperatures remain below freezing for much of the year. Coastal British Columbia has a temperate rainforest climate, with mild, wet winters and dry summers.
While the U.S. has areas that can reach extreme heat, particularly in states like Arizona and Nevada, Canada's temperature extremes are often related to cold. For example, Yukon recorded the coldest temperature in North America at −63°C (−81°F) in 1947.
Natural Resources
Both the United States and Canada are endowed with abundant natural resources, but their specific resources differ due to the geography of each country.
The U.S. is rich in a wide variety of natural resources, including coal, oil, natural gas, and minerals. The Permian Basin in Texas and New Mexico is one of the world’s most productive oil fields, while Wyoming is the leading coal producer.
Canada is known for its vast oil sands reserves, particularly in Alberta, making it the third-largest holder of proven oil reserves in the world, behind Venezuela and Saudi Arabia. Canada is also a major producer of natural gas, uranium, and potash.
The United States and Canada are major trading partners in the energy sector, with Canada supplying a significant portion of U.S. oil imports. Both countries are also leaders in hydroelectric power, with Canada relying on hydroelectricity for around 60% of its electricity needs, especially in provinces like Quebec.
Wildlife and Ecosystems
The diverse geography of the U.S. and Canada gives rise to a variety of ecosystems, from arctic tundra and boreal forests to deserts and wetlands.
Canada is home to the Boreal Forest, which covers much of the country from Newfoundland to the Yukon and is one of the largest intact forests in the world. The boreal region plays a vital role in carbon sequestration and is home to species like caribou, wolves, and grizzly bears.
The U.S. has a broader range of ecosystems, including deserts like the Sonoran Desert in the Southwest, rainforests in the Pacific Northwest, and swamps in the Southeast, particularly in states like Louisiana and Florida. The Everglades in Florida are a unique wetland ecosystem, home to endangered species like the American crocodile and the Florida panther.
United States and Canada Relations
The current state of relations between the United States and Canada reflects a complex and multifaceted partnership characterized by deep economic integration, robust trade, and strong political cooperation. These two North American neighbors share one of the longest undefended borders in the world, stretching over 5,500 miles, which underscores their geographical and strategic importance. Both countries are members of numerous international organizations, including the United Nations, NATO, and the G7, which highlights their commitment to maintaining global stability and addressing international issues collaboratively.
Economically, the United States and Canada are each other's largest trading partners. In 2021, bilateral trade in goods and services exceeded $600 billion, with approximately $1.7 billion worth of goods and services crossing the border each day. These include significant energy exports from Canada to the United States, such as oil, natural gas, and electricity, which are vital for both nations' energy security. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which came into effect in 2020, has further strengthened economic ties, ensuring fairer trade practices and reducing trade barriers.
Politically, both countries have a long history of cooperation on various issues, including environmental protection, defense, and counter-terrorism. The two nations jointly manage the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), which plays a critical role in defending the airspaces of both countries. Additionally, the United States and Canada work closely on environmental initiatives, such as the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, aiming to protect shared natural resources and enhance regional biodiversity.
In terms of public opinion, surveys have shown that citizens of both countries generally hold positive views of each other, recognizing the mutual benefits of a strong bilateral relationship. However, occasional disputes arise, particularly concerning trade policies and environmental regulations. Despite these challenges, both nations consistently strive to resolve issues through diplomatic dialogue and negotiation.
History
Historical relations between the United States and Canada are deeply intertwined, reflecting a complex tapestry of cooperation, conflicts, trade, and shared interests. The roots of this relationship date back to the early colonial period, when British and French settlers established their footholds in North America. While the American Revolution (1775-1783) led to the independence of the United States from Britain, many Loyalists who supported the British Crown migrated to Canada, thereby shaping the cultural and political landscape of Canadian society.
One of the earliest significant events in US-Canada relations was the War of 1812. Fought between the United States and the British Empire, which included Canadian forces, the war saw multiple battles on Canadian soil. Despite the lack of a decisive victory by either side, the Treaty of Ghent (1814) ended the conflict and set the stage for peaceful coexistence and cooperation.
Trade has always been a cornerstone of US-Canada relations. The 1854 Reciprocity Treaty allowed for the free movement of goods and laid the groundwork for future economic partnerships. This relationship was further solidified by the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994, which later evolved into the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) in 2020. Trade between the two nations reached over $700 billion in 2019, making them each other's largest trading partners.
Militarily, the United States and Canada have often collaborated under various frameworks. During World War II, both countries were pivotal members of the Allied forces. The formation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 1949 formalized their commitment to mutual defense. Additionally, the defense of North America is jointly managed through the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), established in 1958.
Environmental cooperation is another critical area of US-Canada relations. The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, first signed in 1972 and renewed multiple times since, showcases their collaborative efforts to protect shared water resources. This agreement has led to significant improvements in water quality and has fostered joint research and environmental monitoring programs.
The cultural ties between the United States and Canada are also noteworthy. Both nations share a common language, similar lifestyles, and a passion for sports like hockey. These shared elements facilitate a natural camaraderie and people-to-people connections that transcend borders.
Military and Security
The military and security relationship between the United States and Canada is a cornerstone of North American defense strategy, characterized by deep cooperation, shared responsibilities, and mutual interests. This relationship is operationalized through several critical agreements and joint initiatives, which underscore the commitment of both nations to collective security and defense.
NORAD: A Pillar of Defense
One of the most notable examples of U.S.-Canada military cooperation is the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). Established in 1958, NORAD serves as a bi-national organization with the mission to monitor and defend North American airspace. The command is co-managed by American and Canadian military officials and operates out of the Cheyenne Mountain Complex in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and the Canadian Forces Base in Winnipeg, Manitoba. NORAD's ability to detect, track, and engage any potential threats to the continental airspace exemplifies the seamless integration of U.S. and Canadian defense efforts.
Integrated Defense Strategy
The United States and Canada also cooperate closely within the framework of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Both nations are founding members of NATO, which aims to ensure the collective defense of its member states. Within NATO, the U.S. and Canada collaborate on joint exercises, intelligence sharing, and strategic planning to counter global threats such as terrorism and cyber-attacks. This integrated approach enhances the operational readiness and interoperability of their respective military forces.
Cross-Border Security Initiatives
In addition to joint defense efforts, the United States and Canada have implemented numerous cross-border security initiatives to address common threats. The Canada-United States Cross-Border Crime Forum, established in 1997, facilitates cooperation on issues such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, and organized crime. This forum allows for regular dialogue between law enforcement agencies, fostering a collaborative approach to confronting cross-border criminal activities.
Trade and Economic Security
The security relationship between the United States and Canada extends beyond military cooperation to encompass economic dimensions. The two countries are primary trade partners, with bilateral trade amounting to approximately $718.4 billion in 2019. Secure and efficient cross-border trade is vital for the economies of both nations. Programs like the Canada-U.S. Integrated Cross-Border Law Enforcement Operations (Shiprider) enhance maritime security and ensure the smooth flow of goods and people across the border, safeguarding economic stability and prosperity.
Commitment to Arctic Security
Another important area of U.S.-Canada military cooperation is in the Arctic region. As Arctic nations, both countries are committed to ensuring the security and sovereignty of their northern territories. The United States and Canada participate in joint exercises and operations in the Arctic, emphasizing the importance of coordinating efforts to address challenges unique to the region, such as harsh environmental conditions and the increasing interest of other global powers in the Arctic.
Humanitarian and Disaster Response
The military cooperation between the United States and Canada also extends to humanitarian and disaster response efforts. The two nations collaborate on disaster relief operations, leveraging their combined resources and expertise to respond effectively to natural disasters and other emergencies. Joint exercises simulate scenarios ranging from natural disasters to pandemics, ensuring that both nations are prepared to respond swiftly and efficiently to crises.
Trade
Trade relations between the United States and Canada constitute one of the world’s most robust and dynamic economic partnerships. These neighboring countries share a border that stretches over 5,500 miles, facilitating a significant exchange of goods, services, and investment.
The United States is Canada’s largest trading partner, while Canada stands as the second-largest trading partner for the United States, following China. In 2021, bilateral trade in goods and services between the two nations amounted to approximately $1.4 trillion USD. This substantial economic interaction is supported by several key agreements and trade policies.
One of the cornerstone agreements enhancing trade between the U.S. and Canada is the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which came into effect on July 1, 2020. USMCA replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and introduced updated provisions covering intellectual property, digital trade, and labor rights. This agreement aims to foster greater trade and investment, benefiting businesses and consumers in both countries.
Energy trade is a critical component of the bilateral economic relationship. Canada is the largest foreign supplier of energy to the United States, particularly in oil, natural gas, and electricity. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Canada exported approximately 3.8 million barrels of oil per day to the United States in 2020. This trade is crucial for ensuring energy security and meeting the demand in the U.S. market.
Agriculture also plays a significant role in U.S.-Canada trade relations. The two countries have integrated agricultural markets, with Canada being a top exporter of products such as wheat, dairy, and pork to the United States. Conversely, the United States exports significant quantities of corn, soybeans, and fresh vegetables to Canada. According to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, agri-food trade between the two countries was valued at over $48 billion CAD in 2020.
Cross-border investment flows are another vital aspect of this economic relationship. The U.S. Department of Commerce reports that the United States had a total of $401 billion USD in direct investment in Canada by the end of 2020, while Canadian direct investment in the United States reached $576 billion USD. These investments foster economic growth, create jobs, and enhance innovation in both countries.
Border policies and customs procedures also play essential roles in shaping trade dynamics. The two countries have implemented measures to streamline border crossings and reduce delays. Programs like the Beyond the Border initiative and the Canada-United States Regulatory Cooperation Council aim to enhance border efficiency and regulatory harmonization, facilitating smoother trade flows and reducing costs for businesses.
Environmental Issues
The United States and Canada share a long-standing and cooperative relationship when it comes to addressing environmental issues. This collaboration finds its roots in their shared borders and ecosystems, which necessitate a coordinated approach to environmental stewardship. One of the notable frameworks guiding this relationship is the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA). Initially signed in 1972, and updated several times since, this agreement underscores both nations' commitment to restoring and protecting the Great Lakes, which contain 84% of North America's fresh surface water.
Air quality is another significant area of joint concern. The 1991 Canada-United States Air Quality Agreement aims to address transboundary air pollution problems, particularly those related to acid rain. Under this agreement, both countries have committed to reducing emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which contribute to acid rain, benefiting not just the environment but also public health.
Climate change is a pressing global issue that both nations are addressing through their individual and collective efforts. Both countries are parties to the Paris Agreement, aiming to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to limit global temperature rise. In recent years, Canada has pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 40-45% below 2005 levels by 2030. The United States has set a target to achieve a 50-52% reduction within the same timeframe.
Biodiversity conservation is another area where collaboration is essential. Cross-border wildlife conservation efforts, such as the Migratory Bird Treaty Act signed in 1918, highlight the importance of protecting migratory species that travel between the two nations. This treaty has been instrumental in conserving bird populations and ensuring that migratory pathways remain free from harmful disruptions.
Both countries also work together on marine conservation through initiatives like the North American Marine Protected Areas Network (NAMPAN), which focuses on conserving marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices in coastal and marine environments.
Common Memberships
North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), implemented in 1994, established one of the world's largest free trade zones between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. NAFTA aimed to reduce trade barriers and tariffs among the member countries, significantly boosting economic cooperation. As of 2019, the trilateral trade among these nations reached approximately $1.2 trillion. Although NAFTA has now been replaced by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), it laid the groundwork for contemporary trade relations and economic integration.
United Nations (UN)
Both the United States and Canada are founding members of the United Nations (UN), an international organization established in 1945 to promote peace, security, and cooperation among countries. By being part of the UN, these two countries actively participate in global discussions and initiatives addressing issues such as human rights, climate change, and sustainable development. Canada's commitment to peacekeeping and the United States' significant financial contributions exemplify their active roles within the UN framework.
North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
The United States and Canada are also founding members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a military alliance formed in 1949. NATO was created in response to the geopolitical tensions of the Cold War, aiming to ensure mutual defense and collective security among member nations. Membership entails commitments to democratic values, and mutual defense operations in locations like Afghanistan demonstrate their solidarity. Canada and the United States contribute troops, resources, and strategic leadership to bolster NATO's mission of maintaining regional and global security.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) counts both the United States and Canada among its members. Founded in 1961, the OECD works to promote policies that improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world. Participating countries collaborate on various economic issues, including trade, investment, and innovation. Through the OECD, both nations contribute to and benefit from shared knowledge, best practices, and policy recommendations aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth.
Arctic Council
Given their expansive northern territories, the United States and Canada are key members of the Arctic Council, established in 1996. This intergovernmental forum addresses issues faced by the Arctic governments and indigenous peoples. Topics such as environmental protection, sustainable development, and climate change are of particular importance. The collaborative efforts of the Arctic Council aim to balance ecological preservation with the economic interests in this vital region.
International Joint Commission (IJC)
The International Joint Commission (IJC) is a bilateral organization established by the United States and Canada through the Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909. The IJC addresses and prevents disputes regarding the use and quality of boundary waters between the two countries. By overseeing water levels, water quality, and transboundary water pollution, the IJC plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological health of shared water resources like the Great Lakes. Its science-based, collaborative approach exemplifies the commitment to sustainable management practices.
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)
The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) includes both the United States and Canada as active members. Established in 1989, APEC promotes free trade and economic cooperation throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Membership in APEC allows both countries to engage with fast-growing economies and contribute to regional economic integration. The collaboration within APEC spans various sectors, including trade, investment, technology, and sustainable development, reinforcing economic ties and fostering growth.
Areas Disputed by the United States and Canada
The border shared by Canada and the United States stretches over 5,500 miles, encompassing both land and water boundaries. This extensive borderline includes several areas where disputes over territorial claims and usage have arisen, primarily focused on maritime boundaries and resource exploitation.
One of the most prominent disputes involves the Dixon Entrance, a waterway between Alaska and British Columbia. The United States claims it is part of its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) under the 1893 Anglo-Russian Convention, while Canada counters that the boundary was never legally established, asserting its sovereignty based on the equidistance principle.
Another significant area of contention is the Beaufort Sea, north of the Arctic Circle. Both nations claim portions of this sea as extensions of their continental shelves, driven by the potential for hydrocarbon resources. The boundary dispute in the Beaufort Sea primarily hinges on differing interpretations of maritime boundary principles from bilateral treaties, specifically the 1825 Anglo-Russian Treaty and subsequent agreements. As climate change opens new navigable routes and access to underwater resources, resolving this dispute gains increasing importance.
The Machias Seal Island and North Rock dispute is another example, located in the Gulf of Maine. While the 1984 International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling clarified much of the maritime boundary, it did not address sovereignty over Machias Seal Island and North Rock. Both countries administer the area but assert historic fishing rights, leading to occasional tensions between local fishermen.
In addition to these maritime disputes, there are also terrestrial concerns, such as the boundary in the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This strait serves as a maritime corridor between Washington State and British Columbia. Here, the U.S and Canada have disagreed over drawing the boundary line through the channel, which has implications for fishing rights and marine traffic regulations.
While these disputes may seem minor in geographic scope, they are of considerable importance to the involved parties due to the associated economic and environmental stakes. Both nations continue to engage in diplomatic negotiations, joint commissions, and, where necessary, international adjudication mechanisms to address these boundary issues.
