List of 10 Most Populated States in USA

America is a country of contrasts—not only in its geography, but also in where it's populated. According to Britannica and the World Population Review, the United States still holds the title as the world's third most populous nation, with more than 335 million residents. But where exactly do most Americans reside? Read along to know more about the top 10 most populous states, see what makes them special, and also check a few fun facts along the way!

Top 10 Most Populous States in U.S 2025

Beyond the Top 10: Surprising Extremes

• Least Populous State: Wyoming, with only 587,618 people, is the least populated state—fewer individuals than most U.S. cities!
• Alaska: Even though it is the state that covers the most land, Alaska is home to a population of just around 740,133.

1. California

Source: Britannica

Estimated 202t Population: 39,431,263

California is the undisputed most populated state in the country. With almost 39.5 million people, it has more than the combined population of the 21 least populated states!

Fun fact: The Golden State is home to both the most populous county (Los Angeles) and city (Los Angeles) in the United States. Also, California’s population is incredibly diverse, with no single ethnic group forming a majority. It’s a true melting pot!

2. Texas

Source: Travel texas

Estimated 2025 Population: 31,290,831

Texas is not just big in size—it’s big in people, too. With over 31 million residents, Texas continues to experience rapid growth, fueled by booming cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin.

Did you know? Texas gained more residents in the past decade than any other state.

3. Florida

Source: Britannica

Estimated 2025 Population: 23,372,215

Florida is not all beaches and theme parks. The state has witnessed tremendous growth, particularly amongst retirees and transplants from other states.

Fun Fact: Florida is the sole state among the top five wherein most of its residents are not native-born Floridians!

4. New York

Source: Britannica

Estimated 2025 Population: 19,867,248

New York's population, although decreasing slightly in the past few years, is still strong. New York City, the nation's largest city, serves as a base for the state.

Did you know? Almost half the population of New York resides in the New York City metropolitan area.

5. Pennsylvania

Source: Britannica

Estimated 2025 Population: 13,078,751

Pennsylvania's history and central location have ensured that it remains one of the most populated states.

Did you know? Pennsylvania is one of only four states officially a "commonwealth."

6. Illinois

Source: Britannica

Estimated 2025 Population: 12,710,158

Illinois contains Chicago, the third-largest city in the country, which holds a large percentage of the state's population.

Did you know? Nearly 70% of Illinoisans reside in the metropolitan region of Chicago.

7. Ohio

Source: Britannica

Estimated 2025 Population: 11,883,304

Ohio's population is dispersed among several middle-sized cities, such as Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati.

Fun Fact: Ohio has long been regarded as a political bellwether, partly due to its racially diverse population.

8. Georgia

Source: Britannica

Estimated 2025 Population: 11,180,878

Georgia has experienced rapid growth, particularly in and around Atlanta, which is now one of the nation's fastest-growing metropolitan areas.

Did you know? Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson airport is the world's busiest by number of passengers.

9. North Carolina

Source: Britannica

Estimated 2025 Population: 11,046,024

North Carolina's population explosion is fueled by its desirable job market and lifestyle, particularly in urban areas such as Charlotte and Raleigh.

Fun Fact: North Carolina is now more populous than Michigan, which previously ranked higher.

10. Michigan

Source: Britannica

Estimated 2025 Population: 10,140,459

Michigan completes the top 10, with most of its residents based in the Detroit metropolitan region.

Did you know? Michigan has only one state that is divided into two peninsulas.

Differences between GDP and GNP

10 Questions About the US Government Answered

Why Do These States Have So Many People?

• Economic Opportunities: California, Texas, and New York have varied job markets.
• Climate: Florida and California welcome individuals who want sunshine and warm winters.
• Urban Hubs: Great cities such as Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and Houston attract millions for work, culture, and education.

The population picture of the United States is in constant motion, with some states increasing at a rapid pace while others stagnate or even contract. Whether along California's sun-kissed coast, Texas's vibrant urban centers, or Pennsylvania's historic villages, every state has its own distinctive story to tell about America's people and their changing settlement patterns.

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