settlement hierarchy

The size and range of functions (services, transport, and so on) of a settlement determine its position in the hierarchy. Hamlets are small in size and have a very small range of functions while cities are large in size and have a wide range of facilities, goods, and services.

The arrangement of settlements within a given area in order of importance. Hamlets form the base of the hierarchy followed by villages, small towns, large towns, and cities. A country's capital or largest city forms the top.

The range and number of services in a settlement is proportionate to the size of the population and may determine a settlement's sphere of influence.