Albuquerque is New Mexico's most populated city in the U.S. state, and the United States' 32nd-most populated city. After the founding of the city, it has continued to be included in transportation and trade paths, including Santa Fe Railway, Route 66, Interstate 25, Interstate 40 and Albuquerque International Sunport.The city's population estimated at 560,218 in 2018 is the largest city in the metropolitan area of Albuquerque, with 915,927 residents as of July 2018. Thanks to its metropolitan size, it is home to a diverse restaurant scene from different global cuisines, and a distinct New Mexican cuisine from the state. As the subject of the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District gives the town's largely heavily industrial environment an rural contrast alongside acequias.