States By Size

From sweeping valleys, serene desert landscapes, to scenic coastlines, the vast regions of the United States showcase a breathtaking array of geographical wonders, each of these defined by their unique sizes and landscapes. Our country's states vary greatly in terms of their total area, ranging from the expansive wilderness of Alaska to the compact coasts of Rhode Island. 

Key findings: 

• Alaska's mind-boggling size shatters the scale, making it larger than the combined areas of the second and third largest states, Texas and California.
• Western states dominate the list of the largest states, with 7 out of the top 10 largest states (Alaska, Texas, California, Montana, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada) located in this region.
• The smallest states, Rhode Island, Delaware, and Connecticut, are found in the Northeastern part of the country. This region is known for its higher population density, despite its smaller land area.
• Despite being the second smallest state, Delaware has an area almost twice that of Rhode Island, highlighting the range in size even among smaller states.
• The top three biggest states, Alaska, Texas, and California, combined, account for close to a fifth of the total area of the United States.

Topping the list of the largest states by area is Alaska. Covering a majestic 665,384 square miles, Alaska dwarfs all other states. This colossal landmass offers a diverse array of awe-inspiring landscapes including expansive tundras, towering mountain ranges, and spectacular coastlines.

Second in line is Texas, with a significant expanse of 268,596 square miles. Texas offers a mixture of captivating landscapes, from deserts and coastal plains to rolling hills and thick forests, embodying the state's iconic expression of being like "a whole other country".

In third place, California spans 163,696 square miles. This of course is home to a variety of stunning ecosystems, from the sun-kissed beaches along its scenic coastline to the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada.

Next on the list, with vast landscapes to be found in each, are Montana (147,040 square miles), New Mexico (121,590 square miles), Arizona (113,990 square miles), and Nevada (110,572 square miles). These states are renowned for their natural beauty, encompassing myriad geographical features such as mountain ranges, desert landscapes, and, in Nevada's case, even the vibrant spectacle of Las Vegas.

Colorado, boasting a sizable area of 104,094 square miles, follows suit. Its stunning geographical diversity has something for everyone, from residents to tourists alike.

Rounding out our top ten list are Oregon, spanning 98,379 square miles, and Wyoming, covering 97,813 square miles. Both states are celebrated for their untamed beauty and natural landscapes, from the lush forests, sweeping coastlines, and volcanic landscapes of Oregon to the rugged mountain ranges and prairies of Wyoming.

Largest States by Area:

1. Alaska - 665,384 square miles
2. Texas - 268,596 square miles
3. California - 163,696 square miles
4. Montana - 147,040 square miles
5. New Mexico - 121,590 square miles
6. Arizona - 113,990 square miles
7. Nevada - 110,572 square miles
8. Colorado - 104,094 square miles
9. Oregon - 98,379 square miles
10. Wyoming - 97,813 square miles

Rhode Island is the smallest state, covering only 1,545 square miles. Yet what it lacks in nature's grandeur, it more than compensates for with its enchanting coastal beauty and historic charm. Not far behind, Delaware takes the forty-ninth spot in terms of the size of the United States, with a total area of 2,489 square miles. Like Rhode Island, Delaware may be small in scale, but it boasts scenic beaches and quaint towns that are rich in history and allure.

Listed third in the count of smallest states is Connecticut, piece of land reaching just 5,543 square miles. Connecticut is renowned for its mix of coastal cities and rural areas, providing visitors and residents with a diverse range of experiences.

Notable mentions include New Jersey covering 8,723 square miles, New Hampshire with 9,349 square miles, and Vermont spanning 9,616 square miles respectively. Massachusetts, Hawaii, Maryland, and West Virginia round off our list of the smallest states, each contributing its unique landscapes and attractions.

Smallest States by Area:

1. Rhode Island - 1,545 square miles
2. Delaware - 2,489 square miles
3. Connecticut - 5,543 square miles
4. New Jersey - 8,723 square miles
5. New Hampshire - 9,349 square miles
6. Vermont - 9,616 square miles
7. Massachusetts - 10,554 square miles
8. Hawaii - 10,932 square miles
9. Maryland - 12,406 square miles
10. West Virginia - 24,230 square miles