List of U.S. states and territories by area

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US States by Total Area

List of U.S. States and Territories by Area provides a comprehensive overview of the total area of each U.S. state and territory in the United States. This list is significant for understanding the geographical diversity and size distribution of the U.S. states and territories, which is crucial for various aspects of planning, governance, and demographic analysis. The area is usually measured in square miles and includes both land and water areas within the state or territory boundaries.

Overview

The United States is composed of 50 states and several territories. The total area of the United States, including land and water, is approximately 3.8 million square miles, making it the third-largest country in the world by total area. The sizes of states and territories vary widely, from the vast expanses of Alaska, the largest state, to the small islands that make up some of the U.S. territories.

Largest States by Area

1. Alaska - Alaska is the largest state in the U.S. by area, encompassing about 663,267 square miles. It is significantly larger than the second-largest state, with vast wilderness areas and a relatively small population. 2. Texas - Texas is the second-largest state, covering an area of approximately 268,596 square miles. It is known for its large size, diverse landscapes, and significant economic contributions. 3. California - California, the third-largest state by area, covers around 163,696 square miles. It is the most populous state and is famous for its varied geography, including beaches, forests, and deserts.

Smallest States by Area

1. Rhode Island - Rhode Island is the smallest state in terms of area, covering just 1,214 square miles. Despite its small size, it is densely populated and rich in history. 2. Delaware - Delaware is the second-smallest state, with an area of 2,489 square miles. It is known for its business-friendly laws and is a hub for many corporations. 3. Connecticut - Connecticut, covering 5,543 square miles, is the third-smallest state. It is known for its blend of coastal cities and rural areas.

Territories

The United States also has several territories, some of which are not incorporated into the country. These territories include Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands, among others. The largest territory by area is Puerto Rico, with an area of approximately 3,515 square miles.

Significance

Understanding the area of states and territories is crucial for various reasons, including economic planning, population distribution, and environmental conservation. It also plays a significant role in political representation, as the area can affect the number of electoral votes a state has in presidential elections.

See Also

• Geography of the United States
• List of U.S. states by population
• List of U.S. states and territories by GDP