Which is the tiniest state in the USA? A closer look at both land area and population size.

Alaska, covering 665,384 square miles (1,717,856 square kilometers), is the largest state in the U.S. However, depending on how you measure, it can also be considered one of the smallest states. The smallest U.S. state can be determined using different criteria, including land area and population.

Here’s a breakdown of the smallest states in the United States.

5 Smallest U.S. States by Land Area

Covering 3.8 million square miles (9.8 million square kilometers), the United States is vast but the distribution of this land varies significantly across its 50 states. Here’s a breakdown of the five states with the smallest land area, listed in ascending order of size.

1. Rhode Island

Rhode Island, with an area of 1,033.6 square miles (2,677 square kilometers), is smaller than the Grand Canyon, which spans 1,904 square miles (4,931 square kilometers). Known as the Ocean State, Rhode Island is just 37 miles (59.5 km) wide and 48 miles (77.2 km) long.

2. Delaware

Delaware, celebrated for its varied geography, spans 1,948 square miles (5,045.3 square kilometers). Dover, the capital, is the second-largest city in the state, after Wilmington. Delaware’s state dog is the rescue dog.

3. Connecticut

Situated next to New York, Connecticut ranks among the smallest states. This New England state covers an area of 5,018 sq mi (13,023 square kilometers), with 4,841.1 square miles (12,539.2 square kilometers) being land, while the remaining area is water.

Connecticut is home to 21 cities, 169 towns, and eight counties. The state has a rich history, being the birthplace of both Charles Goodyear and Eli Whitney. The state proudly claims that it’s also where you can find "the best pizza in the world."

4. Hawaii

Hawaii spans 6,420.7 square miles (16,629.5 square kilometers) of land, nestled in the north-central Pacific Ocean. This unique state, the fourth smallest in the U.S., is not part of the contiguous United States. Known for its stunning landscapes, it boasts a variety of natural beauty.

5. New Jersey

New Jersey, located on the opposite side of New York, covers an area of 8,719 square miles (22,582.11 square kilometers), according to the US Census Bureau. It has a land area of 7,352.9 square miles (19,043.9 square kilometers) and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, featuring 127 miles of coastline. The state is also part of the Coastal Plains ecoregion, which it shares with states like Florida and parts of Texas.

While New Jersey may not top the charts in terms of land area, it proudly holds the title for having more horses per square mile compared to other states.

5 Smallest U.S. States by Population

Although California is one of the largest states in terms of area and population, the smallest states by land area don't always have the least number of residents. Below are the five states with the smallest populations, listed in increasing order.

1. Wyoming

Wyoming holds the distinction of having the smallest population in the U.S., with around 584,057 people, based on the U.S. Census. Despite its small population, Wyoming is renowned for its vast plains, the majestic Rocky Mountains, and the iconic Yellowstone National Park.

2. Vermont

Situated in the Northeast, Vermont has a population of approximately 647,464. Known for its pristine lakes, like Lake Willoughby in Westmore, the state is home to more than 800 lakes, 28 percent of which are over 20 acres (8.1 hectares) in size.

3. Alaska

Alaska, which is also not part of the continental United States, has beautiful landscapes. It also has a small population (an estimated 733,406) and a low population density. In 2019, Alaska had an average of 0.8 people per square mile (excluding Anchorage).

4. North Dakota

With about 783,926 people, North Dakota has one of the lowest populations in the country. One of its previous nicknames was the Flickertail State, referring to the many squirrels that live in the state. However, a 1953 legislative assembly decided not to officially adopt the nickname.

5. South Dakota

With a population of just under 1 million (around 919,318), South Dakota ranks as the fifth smallest state in terms of population. Describing itself as "all about the outdoors," the state offers abundant opportunities to connect with nature, boasting 13 state parks and the 109-mile Mickelson Trail for outdoor enthusiasts.