Although there are other geographic features, some of the most important features that influence the growth of cities are water , landforms , vegetation , soil and climate . Each of these is discussed below. Water Most cities are found on coastlines of lakes, rivers, streams, oceans, seas, bays, canals, or natural harbors. Bodies of water may offer sources of drinking water as well as food such as fish, crabs, oysters, and kelp. Rivers provide irrigation for food production.
Water also offers an opportunity for transportation.
Some ships bring goods from lands across the sea, and others take goods away. Large ships can sail to some inland cities through wide rivers and canals. Harbors provide shelter for ships. Many people enjoy recreational activities on the water such as boating, fishing, swimming, etc. People settling near water need to be concerned with storms that could cause flooding.