List of states and territories of the United States by population density

U.S. states and territories by population density

List of states and territories of the United States by population density refers to the ranking of the United States' federal states and territories based on the number of people living per unit of area. Population density is calculated by dividing the total population of a state or territory by its land area. This metric is crucial for understanding the distribution of the population across the country and can influence everything from political representation to resource allocation.

Overview

The United States is composed of 50 states, a federal district (Washington, D.C.), and several territories, including Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands. The population density of these states and territories can vary dramatically, from densely populated areas like New Jersey, which is the most densely populated state, to sparsely populated regions like Alaska, which has the lowest population density due to its vast land area.

Calculation

Population density is calculated as: \[ \text{Population Density} = \frac{\text{Total Population}}{\text{Land Area}} \] The land area is measured in square miles or square kilometers, and the total population is based on the most recent United States Census data or estimates.

Ranking

The ranking of states and territories by population density changes slightly with each census, which is conducted every ten years. As of the most recent census, the top five most densely populated states are:

1. New Jersey
2. Rhode Island
3. Massachusetts
4. Connecticut
5. Maryland

Conversely, the states with the lowest population density are:

1. Alaska
2. Wyoming
3. Montana
4. North Dakota
5. South Dakota

Territories like Puerto Rico also have high population densities compared to many states.

Implications

Population density has significant implications for states and territories, affecting urban planning, infrastructure development, environmental policy, and social services. High-density areas may face challenges related to traffic congestion, housing affordability, and environmental degradation. In contrast, low-density areas might struggle with providing widespread access to services, maintaining infrastructure, and economic development.

See Also

• Demographics of the United States
• List of United States cities by population
• Geography of the United States