List of Whitest States in the US

Discover states in the US with high percentages of non-Hispanic white populations. Maine leads, followed by Vermont, West Virginia, New Hampshire, Montana, Wyoming, Iowa, North Dakota, Idaho, and Kentucky. 

Ayukta Zisha
Jun 23, 2025, 06:46 EDT
List of Whitest States in the US
List of Whitest States in the US

The United States is known for its racial and ethnic diversity, in which millions of people from different backgrounds contribute to their cultural clothes. However, some states are mainly white, especially in rural or less urbanized areas. These demographic patterns are affected by limited population flows from the trends of historical stay, disposal roots, and other racial or ethnic groups. While diversity is increasing continuously across the country, some states still have the largest number of non-Hispanic white inhabitants. Understanding the white population in states provides insight into regional demographics, social patterns, and historical heritage. This article focuses on the percentage of residents identified as non-Hispanic white, based on recent census and American Community Survey data in the US.

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1. Maine

White Population: More than 90%

Maine consistently remains the whitest state in the U.S. Its demographic makeup is overwhelmingly white, a trend that largely persists despite some growing diversity in urban centers like Portland. While these areas are seeing a gradual increase in variety, they represent a small shift in the broader picture. The state's population continues to be predominantly of white ethnic backgrounds, distinguishing it demographically from the rest of the nation. This enduring characteristic shapes Maine's cultural and social landscape.

2. Vermont

White Population: Around 89%

Vermont is a small, mainly rural state with low population density and minimal racial diversity. It has seen a slow demographic change over the years, partially due to its geography and economic structure, which do not attract large immigrant communities. The population is mainly of the European lineage, especially English, Irish, and French.

3. West Virginia

White Population: Around 88%

West Virginia has a long history of European settlement, especially of the Scots-Irish and the German dynasty. The lack of its mountainous regions and big cities has contributed to limited racial and ethnic changes over time. The state has one of the lowest varieties in the US

4. New Hampshire

White population: Around 87%

New Hampshire, like the rest of New England, has one percent more white inhabitants. Its population is towards early English settlers, and although its southern cities are experiencing a slight diversity, the overall makeup is still primarily white. It remains mostly in suburban and rural states.

5. Montana

White Population: Around 86%

Montana has a massive white population with strong roots in the Western European lineage. While the state has a notable original American appearance, especially near the reservation, overall racial makeup remains primarily white due to limited immigration and urbanization.

6. Wyoming

White Population: Around 85%

With one of the lowest populations in the country, Wyoming remains a primarily white state. Its economy, focused on mining, farming, and energy, has not attracted important immigrant communities. The white population has largely descended from early European settlers.

7. Iowa

White Population: Around 84%

The population of Iowa is largely of German, Irish, and Scandinavian descent. While its urban centers, such as Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, are gradually becoming more diverse, most states are mainly white, especially in rural areas.

8. North Dakota

White population: Around 83%

North Dakota has long been home to communities of German and Scandinavian descent. Although refugee rehabilitation has added some diversity in recent years, the overall population remains white to a large extent. Its cold climate and remote places contribute to its demographic stability.

9. Idaho

White population: about 82%

Idaho has a strong white majority, especially in rural and suburban areas. However, the Hispanic population is increasing in some parts of Southern Idaho. The state has attracted some white migrants from other parts of the country due to its orthodox and reduced environment.

10. Kentucky

White Population: Around 81%

Kentucky is more diverse than some other states on this list, but it still has a high percentage of white inhabitants, mainly Scots-Irish and English Heritage. While cities such as Louisville and Lexington are more diverse, most rural and Appalachian areas of the state are primarily white.

Ayukta Zisha
Ayukta Zisha

Content Writer

    Ayukta Zisha is a Content Writer and Published Author with a Master’s degree in English Literature. She also holds a certification in Digital Marketing from IIT Delhi. Deeply passionate about art, aesthetics, and literature, Ayukta brings a unique creative flair to her writing. A dedicated bibliophile, she continues to explore and share her love for words through engaging and insightful content. You can reach out to her at ayukta.jisha@jagrannewmedia.com

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