List of U.S. states by non-Hispanic white population

Non-Hispanic White Americans by state

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List of U.S. states by non-Hispanic white population refers to the ranking of the 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia based on the percentage of their populations that are non-Hispanic whites. This demographic metric is significant in various socio-economic and political analyses, as it reflects not only the racial and ethnic composition of states but also can influence policy making, electoral trends, and social services distribution.

Overview

The United States Census Bureau collects data on race and Hispanic origin, allowing for the analysis of the population in terms of non-Hispanic whites. This group consists of individuals who identify their race as white and are not of Hispanic or Latino origin, which includes people from countries like Spain or Latin American countries where Spanish is spoken. The distinction between Hispanic and non-Hispanic is crucial for demographic studies, as it separates the ethnic and linguistic characteristics from racial identification.

Trends

Over recent decades, the percentage of non-Hispanic whites in the U.S. population has been declining due to a combination of factors including lower birth rates among non-Hispanic whites and higher rates of immigration from non-European countries. This demographic shift has been reflected in the changing composition of the population in many states.

State Rankings

The list of states by non-Hispanic white population changes with each census, reflecting migration trends, birth rates, and other demographic factors. States in the Midwest and New England traditionally have higher percentages of non-Hispanic whites, while states in the Southwest and those with large urban centers tend to have more diverse populations.

Top States

1. **Maine** - Maine often ranks as the state with the highest percentage of non-Hispanic whites, reflecting its demographic stability and lower rates of immigration. 2. **Vermont** - Similar to Maine, Vermont has a high percentage of non-Hispanic whites, due in part to its small size and rural character. 3. **West Virginia** - West Virginia's population is predominantly non-Hispanic white, influenced by its history and economic factors.

States with Lower Percentages

- **California** - As a state with a large immigrant population and significant Hispanic or Latino community, California has one of the lower percentages of non-Hispanic whites. - **Texas** - Texas has a diverse population with a significant percentage of Hispanic or Latino individuals, reducing the proportion of non-Hispanic whites. - **New Mexico** - New Mexico has the lowest percentage of non-Hispanic whites, reflecting its historical and cultural ties to Hispanic and Native American communities.

Implications

The demographic composition of states has profound implications for politics, education, healthcare, and social services. States with higher percentages of non-Hispanic whites may have different policy priorities and social dynamics than those with more diverse populations. Understanding these demographics is crucial for policymakers, businesses, and community leaders.

See Also

• Demographics of the United States
• Hispanic and Latino Americans
• Race and ethnicity in the United States Census