What's the smallest metro area you can go through life in without really having to leave?

Question

That has at least one place for every usual need.

Imagine the people in Fairbanks,AK or Guam: If they can't find something, there *are* no bigger metros around to fall back on.

Answer 1

If you think of it in basic terms, all we "need" is food , shelter and protection from the elements. They can be obtained just about anywhere.

Answer 2

That depends on your perspective.  Your needs may be another person's luxuries.

I know folks who've never left Aquidneck Island in Rhode Island.  If they can't find something, they just do without it.