For good or ill, Gotham City—or simply "Gotham" in the popular consciousness—is one of the most notorious cities in the world. Located at the southern end of New Jersey in the United States, it is equally famous for villainy and heroism, due especially to the presence of the Batman, his allies, and his foes.

In spite of its reputation for housing dangerous criminals, Gotham remains a highly affordable city in a major metropolitan area, as well as a site of high culture due to the historic wealth of its oldest families. Gotham institutions of education and the arts are well-regarded for their expertise, drawing visitors from around the world and even other planets and realities.