Looking for a quiet, spacious, and community-focused place to call home? The least populated states in the USA offer tranquility, wide-open skies, and small‑town charm. Whether you’re seeking vast landscapes or close‑knit communities, this guide to the 10 lowest population state in USA is perfect for those curious about the least populated state in the United States.
Here’s our curated list of the least populated state in the US—ranging from enormous wilderness to scenic New England hills—ranked by population size in 2025. Discover the unique appeal of each, from cowboy country to maple leaf country.
1. Wyoming
Wyoming is the least populated state in the USA with about 588,000 residents—despite being the 10th largest by area. Known for its wide-open prairies and national parks, it offers solitude and outdoor adventure. Cheyenne, the capital, has just 65,000 people :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
2. Vermont
With roughly 648,000 people, Vermont ranks as the least populated state in the United States after Wyoming. Home to charming towns and fall foliage, it appeals to those seeking small-town life :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
3. Alaska
Although Alaska is vast in size, it’s one of the least populated state in the US, with around 740,000 residents. Its population density is just over 1 person per square mile—making it America’s most sparsely populated state :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
4. North Dakota
North Dakota counts nearly 784,000 residents, placing it fourth in ranking for least populated state US. Known for its Great Plains and agricultural communities, it offers rural peace :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
5. South Dakota
South Dakota is home to about 929,000 people, making it one of the least populated states in the US. With landmarks like Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills, it combines scenery with solitude :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
6. Delaware
Delaware has approximately 1.04 million residents, ranking among the least populated states in the United States. Smallest by area in the mid‑Atlantic, it’s more densely populated but still relatively small in total population :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
7. Rhode Island
Rhode Island is the second-least populated New England state with around 1.1 million people, making it one of the least populated state in USA. It’s small in size but rich in coastal culture :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
8. Montana
With roughly 1.14 million residents, Montana ranks among the least populated state us. Known for Big Sky landscapes and national parks, it’s home to outdoor lovers seeking space :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
9. Maine
Maine has about 1.40 million residents, ranking ninth among the least populated state in the us. Its rocky coastline and Pine Tree State charm make it perfect for quiet living :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
10. New Hampshire
New Hampshire, with roughly 1.41 million residents, rounds out our top ten least populated state in united states. Known for its lakes, mountains, and small‑town villages, it’s ideal for those seeking a balance of community and privacy :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
FAQs – Least Populated States in the U.S.
Q1. What is the least populated state in the US?
A1. Wyoming is the least populated state in the USA with around 588,000 residents :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
Q2. Which state is the second least populated?
A2. Vermont is second, with approximately 648,000 residents, followed by Alaska :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
Q3. Are large states always densely populated?
A3. Not always—Alaska and Montana are geographically large but remain sparsely populated.
Q4. Do least populated states mean fewer amenities?
A4. Many offer close‑knit communities and outdoor opportunities, though big‑city amenities are rarer.
Q5. Why live in a low‑population state?
A5. Benefits include lower crowding, more space, natural beauty, and often lower stress and cost of living.
Final Thoughts: From Wyoming’s open prairies to Vermont’s maple lanes, the least populated states in the US each offer distinct lifestyles full of space, community, and natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to solitude, scenic views, or charming small towns, these least populated state in the USA present compelling options for a peaceful, grounded life.
Explore more U.S. state rankings and travel insights at USATop-10.
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