What’s the Biggest State in the U.S.A.?
The United States of America are made up of 50 states, each with its own unique culture, geography, and history. But there is one thing they all share – they are all part of one big, beautiful and diverse country. Americans often disagree on what makes each state special and unique, but you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who cannot answer the question – what’s the biggest state in the U.S.A.?
The answer is…drum roll please… Alaska!
At an astonishing 663,268 square miles, Alaska is by far the largest state in the United States of America. To put it in perspective, the total area of Alaska is more than twice the size of Texas, the second-largest state in the country.
Welcome to Alaska: A Geographical Overview
Alaska is truly an awe-inspiring state, with high mountains, active volcanoes, majestic glaciers, and wild coastlines. Mountain ranges run throughout the state, with most of the taller peaks being concentrated in four mountain systems – the Alaska, Aleutian, Brooks, and Chugach ranges.
Alaska is home to many different kinds of ecosystems and environments. Aside from mountains and glaciers, there are numerous lakes and rivers, tundra, and 16,000 miles of coastline. The state is also home to numerous national parks, monuments, and forests, such as Denali National Park, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, and the Tongass National Forest.
Alaska Population and Culture
Despite its size and remoteness, Alaska is home to over 740,000 people. Anchorage is the most populous city, with over 300,000 people. The state’s capital, Juneau, is the second largest city, with over 33,000 people.
Alaska’s population is diverse. Over 15 languages are spoken in the state, and over 22 percent of the population has Native American or Alaska Native roots. Alaska also has one of the youngest populations in the U.S. – one-third of the state’s residents are under the age of 30.
These demographics result in a strong sense of cultural identity. Often referred to as “The Last Frontier,” Alaska is filled with rugged, independent people who identify strongly with their home state.
The Economy of Alaska
Though Alaska is the largest state in the U.S., it only has a population size similar to a small city. As a result, its economy is dominated by a few large industries.
Fishing and seafood processing form a large part of the state’s economy, with over 20 percent of all the seafood caught in the U.S. coming from Alaska. The state’s federal government, oil and gas, tourism, and transportation industries also account for a considerable chunk of its economic activity.
Alaska is also an important logistics hub for US military operations. Key bases such as JBER (Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson) and Fort Wainwright lie within the state, playing an important role in US readiness and defense.
Facts and Stats About the Biggest State in the U.S.A.
Alaska is an incredible state, and its enormity makes it even more impressive. Here are a few more facts and stats to get even deeper into the state and its size:
• Miles of Coastline: 32,061 (including major rivers and bays)
• Highest Point: Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), 20,310 feet
• Largest City: Anchorage (302,000 people)
• Number of Islands: 3,674
• Number of Glaciers: 100,000
• Number of Native Languages: 20
• Land Area: 586,412 square miles
• Total Area: 663,268 square miles
• % of Total USA Land Mass: 17.3%
Living in Alaska
Living in the biggest state in the USA can mean unique opportunities and plenty of adventure. Depending on where you choose to live, you may find yourself fishing for salmon, hiking glaciers, camping in the national parks, or watching the Aurora Borealis.
Though Alaska is a great place to live, it does come with some drawbacks – it is far from the rest of the US, the cost of living is high, and the long winter months tend to be harsh. However, this only makes the state even more unique and beautiful.
Alaska is a wondrous state, both in terms of its size and its geography. With 16,000 miles of coastline, 3,674 islands, 100,000 glaciers, and an incredible array of wildlife and ecosystems, Alaska is truly a remarkable place. We encourage everyone to visit this beautiful state, and see for themselves why it’s the biggest state in the U.S.A.
