Least Populated States in the U.S. (2025)

The United States, with an estimated population of 347.2 million as of January 2025, ranks as the third-most populous country globally. While California and Texas top the charts with tens of millions of residents, some states remain sparsely populated. 

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List of the 10 Least Populated States in the U.S. (2025)

Based on the latest US Census and World Population Review data, here’s a look at the least populated US states in 2025 and what explains these trends.

Why Do Some States Have Smaller Populations Than Others?

Let’s see, even after having a massive population as an overall country, why some of the US states still lack crowds. Here are some basic reasons that may offer insight into this:

• Geographic isolation (Alaska, Wyoming) limits access and development.

• Lack of large cities reduces job opportunities and inward migration.

• Severe climate conditions discourage long-term settlement in some areas.

• Outmigration and aging populations lead to population declines in states like Vermont and West Virginia.

Which States are Experiencing Negative or Low Growth?

States with little to no population growth include:

• Vermont: -0.03%

• West Virginia: -0.03%

• Mississippi: 0%

• Louisiana: 0.21%

• Hawaii: 0.33%

These states reflect stagnation or decline, in contrast to booming states like Florida or Texas.

Is the Size of the State Always Linked to Low Population?

No. For example, Rhode Island, the smallest state by area but has more than 1.1 million residents, while Alaska, the biggest state, has fewer. Next could be Delaware, being a small state, it has over 1 million people, leaving behind the population of larger states like Montana or the Dakotas.

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Conclusion

The least populated states offer unique advantages like natural beauty, lower density, and often a slower pace of life. However, to retain and attract residents, they need to focus more on Economic development, infrastructure improvement, better connectivity and job opportunities, and more.