Theleast populated statein the U.S. offer a uniqueglimpseinto the nation ’s quieter and dim direction of life .
This list features a mix of states that are little in terms of total land field , as well as sprawling states with the low population compactness in the country . Sometimes , the places with the most wide - undefendable spaces also have closer - knit residential district .
According to the Census Bureau ’s 2023 United states population estimates , here are the 12 least populous res publica .
1. Wyoming (584,000)
Wyomingtakes the crownas the least populated state , with just over 584,000 house physician . It also has the lowest universe density , with about 6 people per straight mile . Its population is a mix of ranch communities , out-of-door fancier and Indigenous people .
2. Vermont (648,000)
With a population of roughly 648,000 , Vermont is a haven for those seekingsmall - town living . Known for its maple syrup and fall foliation , the country draw in retirees and eco - conscious people . About half the state universe live in rural areas .
3. Alaska (733,000)
Despite its massive size , Alaska has a population of about 733,000 . The federal governmentowns much of the land , and its wilderness draws adventurer .
About 15.6 pct of the population is American Indian or Alaska Native , which is the highest percent of any state of matter in the U.S. , accord to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service ’s Office of Minority Health .
4. North Dakota (784,000)
With a population of about 784,000 , North Dakota has determine a high one-year growing rate , thanks to its oil manufacture . The state ’s little - town residents continue its local tradition , including community fairs .
5. South Dakota (919,000)
Neighboring North Dakota , South Dakota ’s universe is about 919,000 . Its economy is bolstered by tourism toMount Rushmoreand the Black Hills . The population live on in a mix of small cities and rural area , with a pronounced Native American presence .
6. Delaware (1.03M)
As the second - smallest nation by area , Delaware has a universe of just over 1 million . sleep together for its low taxes and propinquity to major metro areas , it blends suburban convenience with a relaxed stride of life .
7. Rhode Island (1.095M)
Although it ’s the smallest state by domain , Rhode Island has a universe of or so 1.1 million . It is a densely dwell United States Department of State , with its vibrant cultural view and historical charm concentrated in a little space .
8. Montana (1.13M)
Montana , home to about 1.1 million hoi polloi , is defined by its vast wilderness and ranching culture . With one of the lowest universe density in the country , residents enjoy the astray - receptive landscapes .
9. Maine (1.395M)
Maine ’s universe of about 1.4 million resides mostly along the coast , depart the northern interior sparsely populated . Known for its seafood , especiallylobster , the State Department attract retiree and tourist .
10. New Hampshire (1.40M)
New Hampshire , with a population of around 1.4 million , balances rural good luck charm with approachability to Boston . Its residents value outdoor activities , especially skiing and hiking .
11. Hawaii (1.435M)
Although it ’s an island country , Hawaii has a universe of just under 1.5 million . It has a unique cultural mix , influenced by Native Hawaiian and Asian traditions , and tourists mountain to the state to relax in its tropic beach , vent landscape and lush rain forest .
12. West Virginia (1.77M)
With a population of 1.8 million , West Virginia combines Appalachian culture with a rich coal mining chronicle . The southerly boundary line regions are particularly rural , while Charleston serves as a ethnical hub .
What’s Unique About Living in a Low-Population State?
life-time in a depleted - population Department of State often feels more personal , as neighbors get to really screw each other . These areas miss the traffic jams and stress of more thickly settled res publica like California or Texas , but they also miss the straggle urban centers .
That means these states may also have few toilet facility and occupation opportunities . Lower universe density can mean few entertainment choice , but it also often intend outstanding access to nature .
We created this article with AI technology , then made sure it was fact - gibe and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor program .
