:This is an encyclopedia, what do you expect? It's a freaking city, population is the single most important fact about a city. Do you propose taking that out? Area must be a top 5 fact about a city, like location, population and age. It is financially important in the world economy (second to Tokyo) These facts are interesting. The number of tourists is mentioned because it is probably at least near an all-time record. Tourism is an important industry and is the only experience most people will ever have with this city. If it just said "millions of tourists" you would save seven characters and not be able to tell the incredible amount of tourists entering (the entire native population in under 2 months, the entire non-3rd world would have to come twice a lifetime to reach this rate). I will read to see what else is in the lead that you didn't mention. If maybe it doesn't mention that New York is a cultural, art, music, theatre, fashion, advertising, media and dance center then it should (properly sourced). That would probably make you very happy.