Abstract: A computer-implemented method and apparatus for automatically labeling maps in accordance with predefined label criteria provides automated labeling of any number of different types of maps with point, line and region features. For automatically labeling area regions, a two step process is used where, in the first step, one or more approximate label positions for each region are selected based in part on the skeleton graph of the region. Once the approximate label positions are selected, a second final label placement step is implemented in which test locations in the neighborhood surrounding each of the approximate label positions are searched to see if the label can be placed without overlapping other labels or other features within the area. If so, the labels are placed at the selected test location without regard to the contour of the region's skeleton. A method and apparatus for curved and angled point feature labeling are also provided.