Each MSA is listed by its counties , then cities , each in alphabetical order , and not by size .
The OMB considers these independent cities to be county - equivalents for the purpose of defining MSAs in Virginia .
Each MSAs is listed by MSAs ' counties , then cities , each in alphabetical order , and not by size .
The OMB considers these independent cities to be county - equivalents for the purpose of defining MSAs in Virginia .