What is the capital of the United States?

The capital of the United States is Washington D.C. This city serves as the seat of the federal government and is home to the presidential residence, the White House, as well as the United States Congress and the Supreme Court. Washington D.C. was specifically chosen as the capital due to its location along the Potomac River, which positioned it between the northern and southern states, making it a neutral site for the nation’s government during its early years.

The other cities mentioned, while being major metropolitan areas with significant historical and cultural importance, do not hold the status of the nation's capital. New York City was the first capital under the Constitution but was moved to Washington D.C. in 1800, and Los Angeles and Chicago, despite their size and influence, are not associated with U.S. federal governance. Thus, Washington D.C. stands out as the designated capital where important governmental functions are centralized.