Markets

Insider Trading

Hedge Funds

Retirement

Opinion

19 Most Densely Populated States in the US

In this article, we will take a look at the top 19 most densely populated states in the US. If you would like to skip our discussion on the population trends in the US, you can go to the 5 Most Densely Populated States in the US.

The United States has one of the world’s largest populations. According to the US Census Bureau, the country’s population stands at 336,195,667 as of March 21.  Among the regions, the South experienced the highest population growth, accounting for 38.9% of the overall increase in 2023. This was followed by growth rates of 23.6% in the West, 20.6% in the Midwest, and 17% in the Northeast during the last year. California, Texas, Florida, and New York fall among the most populated US states in 2024.

In 1790, the first official US census recorded a population of nearly 4 million. Since then, the population has grown rapidly, increasing by an average of 1.6% each year. One of the major factors accounting for the population growth in the US is immigration. From European immigrants in the 19th and early 20th centuries (who made up over 80% of the foreign-born population in 1910) to Asians and Hispanics in recent decades (who now constitute over 40% of immigrants), immigration has significantly impacted population growth. Medical advancements have also led to longer life spans, ultimately causing population growth. In 1900, the average life expectancy in the US was just under 47 years. By 2023, it has risen to nearly 76.4 years. Medical innovations and solutions by popular healthcare companies like Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY), UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH), and Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) also have a role to play in increasing the average life expectancy in the country.

Furthermore, the fertility rates have also affected population trends. Historically, the US has experienced relatively high fertility rates. In the early 1900s, the average woman had between 3 and 4 children. This contributed significantly to population growth, particularly in the post-World War II baby boom era, when fertility rates peaked at nearly four children per woman. However, these rates have declined steadily since the 1960s, reaching a record low of 1.64 births per woman in 2020.

Regional Disparities in US Population Density

While the overall population continues to grow, the US exhibits significant regional variations in density and distribution. The US population density per square mile is 93.8 people. It varies significantly throughout the country, with the District of Columbia having 11,280 people per square mile in contrast to Alaska having just 1.3 people per square mile. This variation is based on a couple of factors. Firstly, the 21st century has seen the rise of megacities leading to urbanization.  In 1950, 64% of the population of the US lived in urban cities. This population concentration in urban areas has increased significantly to 83% during present times. By 2050, this number is expected to increase to 89%. In contrast, many rural areas are experiencing population decline. From 2000 to 2010, 346 out of 1336 counties lost 5% or more of their working-age population. Between 2010 and 2020, losses increased nearly three-fold, with more than 970 rural counties losing 5% of their population. Limited economic opportunities and out-migration towards urban centers contribute to this trend.

The US population is projected to continue growing, albeit at a slower pace, especially after 2030. Census forecasts suggest an increase of 79 million people by 2060, with the population surpassing 400 million by 2058. It has been projected that immigration will be the largest contributing factor to the US population growth, surpassing the natural increase after 2030. Simultaneously, a natural decrease in the country’s population will be supported by declining fertility rates and an aging population.

Arthimedes/Shutterstock.com

Our Methodology

We compiled a list of the 19 most densely populated states in the US, using average population per square mile data from the US Census Bureau. The states are ranked in ascending order based on their population densities. We have also included the latest annual GDP per capita for each state to offer insights into their respective economies.

You can also check out the 50 Most Densely Populated Countries in the World here.

By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.

19 Most Densely Populated States in the US

19. South Carolina

Population per Square Mile: 170.2

GDP per Capita: $56,010

South Carolina has a moderate population density of around 170.2 people per square mile. This density varies, with major coastal cities like Charleston and Myrtle Beach attracting residents, while rural areas, particularly inland, see a lower concentration.  The state’s economy is on a path of diversification.  South Carolina is actively attracting manufacturing and technology businesses while maintaining a strong agricultural sector.

18. Michigan

Population per Square Mile: 178.0

GDP per Capita: $61,859

Michigan’s population density sits around 178 people per square mile. This density is mostly concentrated in urban hubs like Detroit. The state’s population density is slightly above the national average of 93.8 people per square mile. While the manufacturing industry, particularly automobiles, traditionally fueled Michigan’s economy, diversification towards renewable energy, life sciences, and films is underway.

17. Georgia

Population per Square Mile: 185.6

GDP per Capita: $89,248

Georgia has a growing population density of around 185.6 people per square mile. This density is uneven, with major metropolitan areas like Atlanta attracting residents while rural areas remain less populated. Georgia’s economy thrives on a range of sectors. While agriculture remains important, the state has become a hub for different industries, such as aerospace, manufacturing, digital media, and entertainment.

16. Indiana

Population per Square Mile: 189.4

GDP per Capita: $66,698

Indiana balances a moderate population density of around 189.4 people per square mile with a robust economy. Urban areas, particularly Indianapolis, see higher densities, while rural regions are less populated. Manufacturing has traditionally been a cornerstone, but Indiana is now strategically attracting new high-growth sectors like clean energy and electric vehicles.

15. North Carolina

Population per Square Mile: 214.7

GDP per Capita: $68,238

North Carolina ranks as a relatively densely populated state, with around 215 people per square mile (83 per square kilometer). This density varies, with major cities like Charlotte and Raleigh attracting residents while the mountainous regions are less populated. North Carolina has become a hub for technology parks, research and innovation centers, and various top-notch universities.

14. Virginia

Population per Square Mile: 218.6

GDP per Capita: $74,784

Virginia showcases a diverse population density. Urban areas like Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads boast high densities, exceeding 1,000 people per square mile, while rural regions see significantly lower numbers. This translates to an overall average of around 219 people per square mile. Virginia’s economy thrives on a rich mix. Government jobs, particularly federal ones, play a significant role alongside a strong military presence. Beyond that, Virginia has a diverse economic landscape with strengths in varied industries such as technology, agriculture, and consulting.

13. Hawaii

Population per Square Mile: 226.6

GDP per Capita: $66,198

Hawaii is among the top 20 most densely populated states in the US. Hawaii presents a unique case of population density in the US. Two-thirds of the state’s 1.4 million residents live on Oahu, the most populous island, which is home to Honolulu, the state capital. The state’s economy leans heavily on tourism, capitalizing on its natural beauty and cultural heritage. However, policymakers are working towards diversifying the economic landscape.

12. Illinois

Population per Square Mile: 230.8

GDP per Capita: $82,126

Illinois strikes a balance between its population density and economic strengths. The state’s average population density is around 230.8 people per square mile, but this varies widely. Chicago, as a major city, has a high population concentration, while rural areas have fewer residents. The state’s economy is diverse, with agriculture remaining important alongside leading sectors like manufacturing, transportation, and finance. This mix of industries makes Illinois a key economic hub in the Midwest.

11. California

Population per Square Mile: 253.7

GDP per Capita: $92,190

California holds the title of the most populous US state, with a density of around 253.7 people per square mile. This density is uneven, with major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco attracting residents, while deserts and mountains see sparse populations. The state’s economy is a powerhouse, boasting the world’s fifth-largest GDP. It is driven by innovation, with Silicon Valley at the forefront of the tech industry. Additionally, California benefits from the influence of Hollywood in the entertainment sector.

10. Ohio

Population per Square Mile: 288.8

GDP per Capita: $69,978

In Ohio, the statewide population density stands at approximately 253.7 people per square mile. This density varies, with major cities such as Cleveland and Columbus exhibiting high concentrations while rural areas experience lower population density. The state’s economy is characterized by a diverse mix of industries. Historically, manufacturing, particularly in automobiles, has been a key pillar of Ohio’s economy. While manufacturing remains significant, the state is strategically diversifying its economic base towards sectors such as healthcare, logistics, and financial services.

9. Pennsylvania

Population per Square Mile: 290.6

GDP per Capita: $71,160

The statewide population density in Pennsylvania is around 290.6 people per square mile. Pennsylvania’s economy has a strong industrial base, traditionally centered on steel and manufacturing. In recent decades, the state has diversified towards healthcare, education, and technology sectors. Pennsylvania is among the top 10 most densely populated states in the US.

8. Florida

Population per Square Mile: 401.4

GDP per Capita: $62,445

Florida maintains a high population density, averaging around 401 people per square mile. However, this density varies across the state, with major coastal cities such as Miami and Orlando drawing significant populations, while rural inland areas have a lower concentration of residents. The state’s economy thrives on tourism, capitalizing on its beaches, theme parks, and sunny climate.

7. New York

Population per Square Mile: 428.7

GDP per Capita: $104,343

As the fourth most populous state, New York has a density of around 429 people per square mile, far exceeding the national average. This density is uneven, with New York City, a global metropolis, being a major driver. The state’s economy thrives on a diverse base. Finance, media, and professional services are powerhouses concentrated in New York City. Popular companies like Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY), UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH), and Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) also have a presence in the state.

6. Delaware

Population per Square Mile: 508

GDP per Capita: $86,944

Delaware is at the sixth position on our list of the most densely populated states in the US. Delaware has a business-friendly environment, which attracts financial institutions and corporations to the region. Additionally, the state has a strong manufacturing sector, with chemicals and pharmaceuticals playing a significant role.

AI, Tariffs, Nuclear Power: One Undervalued Stock Connects ALL the Dots (Before It Explodes!)

Artificial intelligence is the greatest investment opportunity of our lifetime. The time to invest in groundbreaking AI is now, and this stock is a steal!

AI is eating the world—and the machines behind it are ravenous.

Each ChatGPT query, each model update, each robotic breakthrough consumes massive amounts of energy. In fact, AI is already pushing global power grids to the brink.

Wall Street is pouring hundreds of billions into artificial intelligence—training smarter chatbots, automating industries, and building the digital future. But there’s one urgent question few are asking:

Where will all of that energy come from?

AI is the most electricity-hungry technology ever invented. Each data center powering large language models like ChatGPT consumes as much energy as a small city. And it’s about to get worse.

Even Sam Altman, the founder of OpenAI, issued a stark warning:

“The future of AI depends on an energy breakthrough.”

Elon Musk was even more blunt:

“AI will run out of electricity by next year.”

As the world chases faster, smarter machines, a hidden crisis is emerging behind the scenes. Power grids are strained. Electricity prices are rising. Utilities are scrambling to expand capacity.

And that’s where the real opportunity lies…

One little-known company—almost entirely overlooked by most AI investors—could be the ultimate backdoor play. It’s not a chipmaker. It’s not a cloud platform. But it might be the most important AI stock in the US owns critical energy infrastructure assets positioned to feed the coming AI energy spike.

As demand from AI data centers explodes, this company is gearing up to profit from the most valuable commodity in the digital age: electricity.

The “Toll Booth” Operator of the AI Energy Boom

  • It owns critical nuclear energy infrastructure assets, positioning it at the heart of America’s next-generation power strategy.
  • It’s one of the only global companies capable of executing large-scale, complex EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) projects across oil, gas, renewable fuels, and industrial infrastructure.
  • It plays a pivotal role in U.S. LNG exportation—a sector about to explode under President Trump’s renewed “America First” energy doctrine.

Trump has made it clear: Europe and U.S. allies must buy American LNG.

And our company sits in the toll booth—collecting fees on every drop exported.

But that’s not all…

As Trump’s proposed tariffs push American manufacturers to bring their operations back home, this company will be first in line to rebuild, retrofit, and reengineer those facilities.

AI. Energy. Tariffs. Onshoring. This One Company Ties It All Together.

While the world is distracted by flashy AI tickers, a few smart investors are quietly scooping up shares of the one company powering it all from behind the scenes.

AI needs energy. Energy needs infrastructure.

And infrastructure needs a builder with experience, scale, and execution.

This company has its finger in every pie—and Wall Street is just starting to notice.

Wall Street is noticing this company also because it is quietly riding all of these tailwinds—without the sky-high valuation.

While most energy and utility firms are buried under mountains of debt and coughing up hefty interest payments just to appease bondholders…

This company is completely debt-free.

In fact, it’s sitting on a war chest of cash—equal to nearly one-third of its entire market cap.

It also owns a huge equity stake in another red-hot AI play, giving investors indirect exposure to multiple AI growth engines without paying a premium.

And here’s what the smart money has started whispering…

The Hedge Fund Secret That’s Starting to Leak Out

This stock is so off-the-radar, so absurdly undervalued, that some of the most secretive hedge fund managers in the world have begun pitching it at closed-door investment summits.

They’re sharing it quietly, away from the cameras, to rooms full of ultra-wealthy clients.

Why? Because excluding cash and investments, this company is trading at less than 7 times earnings.

And that’s for a business tied to:

  • The AI infrastructure supercycle
  • The onshoring boom driven by Trump-era tariffs
  • A surge in U.S. LNG exports
  • And a unique footprint in nuclear energy—the future of clean, reliable power

You simply won’t find another AI and energy stock this cheap… with this much upside.

This isn’t a hype stock. It’s not riding on hope.

It’s delivering real cash flows, owns critical infrastructure, and holds stakes in other major growth stories.

This is your chance to get in before the rockets take off!

Disruption is the New Name of the Game: Let’s face it, complacency breeds stagnation.

AI is the ultimate disruptor, and it’s shaking the foundations of traditional industries.

The companies that embrace AI will thrive, while the dinosaurs clinging to outdated methods will be left in the dust.

As an investor, you want to be on the side of the winners, and AI is the winning ticket.

The Talent Pool is Overflowing: The world’s brightest minds are flocking to AI.

From computer scientists to mathematicians, the next generation of innovators is pouring its energy into this field.

This influx of talent guarantees a constant stream of groundbreaking ideas and rapid advancements.

By investing in AI, you’re essentially backing the future.

The future is powered by artificial intelligence, and the time to invest is NOW.

Don’t be a spectator in this technological revolution.

Dive into the AI gold rush and watch your portfolio soar alongside the brightest minds of our generation.

This isn’t just about making money – it’s about being part of the future.

So, buckle up and get ready for the ride of your investment life!

Act Now and Unlock a Potential 100+% Return within 12 to 24 months.

We’re now offering month-to-month subscriptions with no commitments.

For a ridiculously low price of just $9.99 per month, you can unlock our in-depth investment research and exclusive insights – that’s less than a single fast food meal!

Space is Limited! Only 1000 spots are available for this exclusive offer. Don’t let this chance slip away – subscribe to our Premium Readership Newsletter today and unlock the potential for a life-changing investment.

Here’s what to do next:

1. Head over to our website and subscribe to our Premium Readership Newsletter for just $9.99.

2. Enjoy a month of ad-free browsing, exclusive access to our in-depth report on the Trump tariff and nuclear energy company as well as the revolutionary AI-robotics company, and the upcoming issues of our Premium Readership Newsletter.

3. Sit back, relax, and know that you’re backed by our ironclad 30-day money-back guarantee.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! Subscribe now and take control of your AI investment future!


No worries about auto-renewals! Our 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee applies whether you’re joining us for the first time or renewing your subscription a month later!

A New Dawn is Coming to U.S. Stocks

I work for one of the largest independent financial publishers in the world – representing over 1 million people in 148 countries.

We’re independently funding today’s broadcast to address something on the mind of every investor in America right now…

Should I put my money in Artificial Intelligence?

Here to answer that for us… and give away his No. 1 free AI recommendation… is 50-year Wall Street titan, Marc Chaikin.

Marc’s been a trader, stockbroker, and analyst. He was the head of the options department at a major brokerage firm and is a sought-after expert for CNBC, Fox Business, Barron’s, and Yahoo! Finance…

But what Marc’s most known for is his award-winning stock-rating system. Which determines whether a stock could shoot sky-high in the next three to six months… or come crashing down.

That’s why Marc’s work appears in every Bloomberg and Reuters terminal on the planet…

And is still used by hundreds of banks, hedge funds, and brokerages to track the billions of dollars flowing in and out of stocks each day.

He’s used this system to survive nine bear markets… create three new indices for the Nasdaq… and even predict the brutal bear market of 2022, 90 days in advance.

Click to continue reading…