The Smallest States in The United States

When we think of vast American landscapes, sprawling plains, and towering mountain ranges often come to mind. But tucked away in the nooks and crannies of the country are some surprisingly small states that might just surprise you with their charm, character, and unique attributes. Whether it’s Rhode Island’s coastal beauty, Delaware’s quaint towns, or New Jersey’s cultural hubs, these states pack a lot into their compact borders.

Let's explore the five smallest states in the US, diving into their land areas, population, and what makes them so special despite their small size. Ready to take a trip to the tiniest corners of the country? Let’s get started.

The Smallest US States by Land Area

Rhode Island

Total Area: 3,144 km²

Land Area: 2,678 km²

Water Area: 438 km²

Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the US, but it’s big on charm. At just 3,144 square kilometers, including 438 square kilometers of water, Rhode Island is a coastal gem that punches well above its weight. While it may only be slightly larger than some small European countries, it boasts more than 400 miles of coastline, making it a haven for beach lovers, sailors, and anyone who enjoys ocean views.

Despite its small size, Rhode Island is rich in history and culture. From the historic streets of Providence to the mansions of Newport, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. The state also has an impressive arts scene, a bustling food culture (including its famous coffee milk and clam cakes), and plenty of scenic coastal towns to explore. Even with such a small landmass, Rhode Island offers diverse landscapes and attractions, proving that sometimes the smallest things come with the biggest impact.

Delaware

Total Area: 5,130 km²

Land Area: 5,047 km²

Water Area: 83 km²

Delaware might come in "second" for the smallest state, but it boasts a lot of “firsts.” As the first state to ratify the US Constitution in 1787, it holds a special place in American history. Spanning 5,130 square kilometers, with just 83 square kilometers of that being water, Delaware is packed with historical landmarks, scenic beach towns, and unique experiences for travelers.

Delaware’s coastline is one of its most significant draws. Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach are famous for their boardwalks, sandy shores, and family-friendly atmosphere, while the slower-paced, natural beauty of Cape Henlopen State Park offers visitors a peaceful escape. Delaware is also home to the charming town of Wilmington, known for its historic district and thriving arts scene. Despite its small size, Delaware offers a little bit of everything—from beaches to history, and everything in between.

Connecticut

Total Area: 14,357 km²

Land Area: 12,559 km²

Water Area: 1,798 km²

At just over 14,000 square kilometers, Connecticut is the third smallest state in the US. While it may have a larger footprint than Rhode Island or Delaware, it’s still considered small compared to most states. About 12,559 square kilometers of Connecticut is land, with nearly 1,800 square kilometers dedicated to water. This makes Connecticut one of the most water-rich states in the country, thanks to its beautiful rivers and extensive shoreline along Long Island Sound.

Known for its Ivy League schools, quaint small towns, and scenic coastal beauty, Connecticut is often considered a hidden gem in New England. While the state may not have the rugged landscapes of Vermont or New Hampshire, it offers a mix of charming towns, rich history, and a coastline dotted with picturesque lighthouses. The state is famous for its role in early American history, its colonial architecture, and its position as an economic hub in the Northeast. With its close proximity to both New York City and Boston, Connecticut also offers residents and visitors easy access to two major metropolitan areas while still maintaining its New England charm.

New Jersey

Total Area: 22,591 km²

Land Area: 19,047 km²

Water Area: 3,544 km²

New Jersey is the fourth smallest state by total area but comes in fifth when it comes to land area. With 22,591 square kilometers of total space, of which 19,047 square kilometers are land, New Jersey might be small, but it’s certainly not lacking in impact. The state’s water area of 3,544 square kilometers is significant, contributing to New Jersey’s famous coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, where cities like Atlantic City and Cape May provide a mix of beaches, boardwalks, and entertainment.

New Jersey, also known as "The Garden State," is often overshadowed by its larger neighbors—New York and Pennsylvania—but it has a unique blend of urban, suburban, and rural areas. The state is home to bustling cities like Newark and Jersey City, historic towns like Princeton, and beautiful parks like the Delaware Water Gap. Despite its small land area, New Jersey’s location on the East Coast makes it one of the most densely populated states in the country, and its diverse communities give the state a dynamic, multicultural flair.

New Hampshire

Total Area: 24,214 km²

Land Area: 23,186 km²

Water Area: 1,028 km²

New Hampshire, the fifth smallest state in the US, is known for its rugged mountains, scenic lakes, and charming New England towns. With a total area of 24,214 square kilometers, of which 23,186 square kilometers is land, New Hampshire is one of the smaller states by total area, but its landscape offers a little something for everyone—whether you’re into skiing, hiking, or just enjoying picturesque views.

While it may not be the smallest state, New Hampshire’s natural beauty and low population density make it feel expansive and serene. The state’s largest city, Manchester, serves as a cultural and economic hub, while the Lakes Region and the White Mountains provide endless outdoor opportunities. The state’s most famous feature is the White Mountains, home to Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, where visitors can enjoy year-round outdoor recreation. Despite its small size, New Hampshire offers a unique combination of wilderness, history, and small-town charm.

The 5 Smallest States by Population

While land area often dominates the conversation when it comes to state size, population is another metric that showcases how small a state truly is. Let’s take a look at the five smallest states in the US by population—some of which are bigger in land area but still have a much smaller number of residents.

Wyoming 

Population: 577,000

Despite being the 10th largest state in the US by land area, Wyoming is the least populated state. Known for its wide-open spaces, stunning national parks like Yellowstone, and its cowboy culture, Wyoming has a sparse population spread out across vast rural areas.

Vermont

Population: 643,000

Vermont is known for its picturesque landscapes, covered bridges, and maple syrup, but it has one of the smallest populations in the US. The state has only about 643,000 residents, many of whom live in small, close-knit communities surrounded by mountains and forests.

Alaska

Population: 731,000

Alaska, despite being the largest state in the US by land area, has a relatively small population. With only 731,000 people, the state’s low population density can be attributed to its rugged terrain, remote wilderness, and extreme weather conditions.

North Dakota

Population: 779,000

North Dakota is one of the least populous states in the US, with a population of just under 800,000. Known for its vast prairies and small towns, it’s also a state with a rich history, including Native American culture and the famous Badlands.

South Dakota

Population: 884,000

South Dakota, famous for the Mount Rushmore National Memorial and the Badlands National Park, rounds out the top five smallest states by population. With a population of around 884,000, much of the state is rural, offering wide-open spaces and a slower pace of life.

The Beauty of Small States

While larger states like Alaska and California may grab attention, the smallest US states prove that great things come in small packages. From Rhode Island's coastal charm to Delaware's historic sites, these compact states are packed with character. Whether it’s the natural beauty, tight-knit communities, or unique culture, the smallest states offer a rich, unforgettable experience that’s often overlooked—but definitely worth discovering.