subcity

Subcity is a term used in urban studies and geography to describe a subdivision of a city that has some degree of distinct identity or governance, but is not itself a separate municipality. It can refer to formal administrative units such as boroughs, districts, or wards, as well as to functional zones defined by planning needs, socioeconomic characteristics, or historical development.

Subcity boundaries may be statutory, defined by a central or regional government, or informal, reflecting neighborhoods with shared identities or practical functions such as transport hubs or business districts. Subcities often coordinate with central city authorities for services, infrastructure, and policy, and may have local councils, committees, or planning bodies in some jurisdictions.

Common examples in large cities include the boroughs of New York City, the arrondissements of Paris, and the boroughs and metropolitan districts in London. In other countries, subcity units may be known as districts, wards, or municipal subdivisions. The concept emphasizes the multi-scalar nature of contemporary urban governance, where multiple layers interact to shape planning, service delivery, and everyday life.

Subcity analysis helps researchers study inequality, accessibility, and the distribution of resources within a metropolis, independent of national or metropolitan-level distinctions.