Top 10 Smallest States in the United States by Area

Curious about the smallest state in the US? Whether you’re a geography enthusiast or just brushing up on U.S. facts, this guide covers everything you need to know about the smallest states in the United States ranked by total area. From the coastal charm of Rhode Island to the mountainous landscapes of Vermont, these compact states may be small in size but are rich in culture, history, and natural beauty.

This list includes the 10 smallest states in the USA by total square mileage, highlighting their land and water area to help you compare their geographic footprint. So if you’re searching for the smallest state in USA, you’re in the right place!

📏 What Is the Smallest State in the United States?

The smallest state in the United States by total area is Rhode Island, with just 1,545 square miles. It is followed by Delaware, Connecticut, and New Jersey. While small in size, these states often rank high in population density, urban development, and historical importance.

🗺️ Top 10 Smallest States in the US (By Total Area)

🌎 Breakdown of the Smallest States in USA

1. Rhode Island – 1,545 mi²

Rhode Island is officially the smallest state in the United States. Despite its tiny size, it offers beautiful beaches, historic towns, and a dense population with easy coastal access.

2. Delaware – 2,489 mi²

Known for its business-friendly laws and beautiful coastal towns, Delaware ranks as the second smallest state in the US. It’s small in size but plays a major role in corporate America.

3. Connecticut – 5,543 mi²

With its proximity to New York and Boston, Connecticut blends New England charm with suburban comfort. It’s the third smallest state in the USA by area.

4. New Jersey – 8,723 mi²

New Jersey may be compact, but it’s one of the most densely populated and industrially developed states in the nation. It also features some of the best public transit access to New York City.

5. New Hampshire – 9,349 mi²

New Hampshire is known for its natural beauty, low taxes, and strong community feel. It ranks fifth among the smallest states in United States and is beloved for its outdoor recreation.

6. Vermont – 9,616 mi²

Vermont offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle with plenty of green space, making it a haven for nature lovers and remote workers alike.

7. Massachusetts – 10,554 mi²

Massachusetts is rich in history and academic institutions. Although it’s the 7th smallest state in the US, it plays a massive role in education and innovation.

8. Hawaii – 10,932 mi²

Hawaii is unique for its island geography. Much of its total area is water, giving it a distinct identity among the smallest states in the USA.

9. Maryland – 12,406 mi²

With its strategic location near Washington D.C., Maryland offers both coastal beauty and political importance despite its smaller size.

10. West Virginia – 24,230 mi²

West Virginia completes the list. Although it’s the largest among the smallest, it’s still significantly smaller than most U.S. states and is known for its Appalachian landscapes and mining history.

🔗 Related Resources

Want to explore the most livable places in the country? Check out our expert-curated list of the 10 Best Cities to Live in the United States (2025 Rankings) and find out which cities offer the best lifestyle, safety, and opportunities.

For tools like area conversions, calculators, and more, visit Calculation Club — your free online resource for simplifying numbers.

📌 Conclusion

The smallest states in the United States may have less physical space, but they offer tremendous value in culture, lifestyle, and opportunity. From the historic coastlines of Rhode Island to the volcanic beauty of Hawaii, these states prove that size doesn’t always determine significance. So whether you’re curious about the smallest state in the US or exploring all 50, this list is your guide to America’s most compact yet fascinating states.