Top 10 Most Rural States in the U.S.: Check Characteristics, Education Trends, and Population Percentage

While much of the United States is geographically rural, only a small portion of the population resides in these areas. Despite the romanticized notion of peaceful country living, urbanization continues to dominate the American landscape. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as of 2020, approximately 76% of the U.S. population resides in urban areas, leaving around 46 million Americans in rural regions.

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What Defines a Rural Area?

The U.S. Census Bureau classifies "rural" as any region not included within an urban area. Urban regions are split into:

• Urbanized Areas: Areas with a population of 50,000 or more.
  
  

• Urban Clusters: Regions with a population between 2,500 and 49,999.

This technical definition means that vast portions of the country, which may appear rural, are still influenced by nearby urban centers.

Key Characteristics of Rural Areas

Rural America is diverse, but certain shared traits are often observed:

• Low Population Density: Rural communities generally have smaller populations spread over larger areas.

• Lower Cost of Living: Daily expenses are typically cheaper than urban counterparts.

• Limited Access to Services: Healthcare, shopping, and education facilities may be fewer and farther between.

• Economic Challenges: Lower wages and higher poverty and unemployment rates are common.

• Farmland and Nature: These areas often include agricultural land, forests, and open spaces.

• Aging Population: Rural areas tend to have a higher median age due to youth migration toward cities.

Education Trends in Rural America

Education has improved significantly in rural communities. In 1970, 56% of adults aged 25 and older did not possess a high school diploma. By 2015, this figure had dropped to 15%. However, educational attainment still lags behind urban areas. Only about 30% of rural adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to higher proportions in cities. This gap contributes to persistent economic disparities.

Top 10 Most Rural States in the U.S.

Using U.S. Census Bureau data, here are the ten most rural states based on the percentage of their population living in rural areas:

These states maintain strong rural identities, often with local economies reliant on agriculture, forestry, mining, and small manufacturing.

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Rural Living: Perceptions and Realities

To some, rural Americans represent self-sufficiency, traditional values, and the agricultural backbone of the country. To others, rural regions signify economic struggle, with limited access to jobs and services. Both perceptions contain truth.

Interestingly, much of the rural population isn’t isolated deep in the countryside but often lives near urban boundaries. Farms and small towns near cities are essential in supporting both rural communities and urban food supply chains.

Conclusion

Rural America might house a minority of the population, but it covers a majority of the land and supports essential industries. Understanding the challenges and contributions of the most rural states helps foster inclusive development and policy planning for all Americans.