From the west coast to the east coast, endless scenic views and historic landmarks fill the fifty states that make up the US. But certain states have more assets than others. Here's a ranking based on GDP per capita.
50. Mississippi: $39,071
Starting off our ranking is good ol' Mississippi - flanked to the north by Tennessee and Arkansas, east by Alabama, south by the Gulf of Mexico, west by Louisiana, and, of course, the Mississippi River.
The US Census Bureau reported back in 2019 that the southern state has a population of nearly 3 million people. According to the World Population Review, Mississippi has a GDP of about $115.90 billion and a per capita GDP of $39,071 - placing it at spot number 50 on our list.
49. West Virginia: $42,148
West Virginia: home to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the Blackwater Falls State Park, and endless other natural landmarks. Those in the mood for a good hike, excellent views, and lots of Civil War history can count on this charming state for all of that.
Plus, their southern hospitality doesn't hurt. So how does West Virginia, which has a population of about 1.79 million, stand in terms of wealth? The World Population Review puts their GDP at around $74.51 billion and their GDP per capita at around $42,148.
48. Arkansas: $43,082
Arkansas takes the next spot on our ranking. The southern state is neighbored by Oklahoma and Tennessee and is home to over 3 million people, making it the 33rd most populated state. The World Population Review reports Arkansas' GDP as roughly $130.71 billion and its GDP per capita as $43,082.
It might not have a coastline to the ocean, but Arkansas has plenty else: mountains galore, dense forests, the Mississippi River, and the Arkansas Delta. And once residents tire of nature, they can enjoy time in many of the cultural sites and museums in Little Rock.
47. Idaho: $45,993
Welcome to the Gem State, where nearly 100 precious and semi-precious gemstones have been uncovered. But Idaho is a well-rounded territory, known for both gorgeous jewels and foods, including potatoes, trout, peas, and lentils. Let's look at how much wealth their treasures bring.
According to the World Population Review, Idaho has a GDP of around $85.55 billion and a GDP per capita of $45,993. But the state's most breathtaking aspect is arguably its miles and miles of running water: Idaho has a massive 3,100 miles of rivers, the most in all of the US.
46. Alabama: $46,221
It's hard to think of Alabama and not have a central aspect of the southern state's culture come to mind. We're talking about college football, of course, and the famous rivalry between the University of Alabama's Crimson Tide and Auburn University's Tigers.
Those who live there have plenty to enjoy, from mountains to the north and a bay to the south. According to the World Population Review, Alabama has a GDP of about $228.06 billion and a per capita GDP of $46,221, earning it the number 46 spot on this ranking of states' wealth.
45. South Carolina: $46,510
With a population of about 5.149 million, South Carolina is estimated to be the 23rd most populated state in the country. The southern region was part of the original Thirteen Colonies and became a part of the US in 1776 during the American Revolution.
Since then, its population and wealth have grown. The World Population Review puts South Carolina's GDP at roughly $245.47 billion and GDP per capita at $46,510. Some of that money goes to maintaining the state's natural beauty, from state beaches to Table Rock State Park.
44. Oklahoma: $46,833
Oklahoma: a state so beloved, there's a whole Wikipedia page dedicated to songs about it. And music inspiration isn't the only thing the Sooner State has to offer. From the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, there's plenty to see.
And nature also worked its wonders in Oklahoma, gracing it with some beautiful parks. So, how wealthy is the state that's home to nearly 4 million people? According to the World Population Review, Oklahoma has a GDP of about $186.88 billion and a GDP per capita of $46,833.
43. Kentucky: $47,575
When we think about Kentucky, at least one of these probably comes to mind: Kentucky Derby (below), Kentucky Fried Chicken, and Muhammad Ali. It's hard to imagine American culture without the influence of this southeastern state. But it wasn't always its own powerhouse.
Kentucky was actually a part of Virginia until it gained statehood and joined the Union in 1792. Today, residents can enjoy everything from horse races to the Mammoth Cave National Park. The World Population Review calculates the Bluegrass State has a GDP of about $213.17 billion and a GDP per capita of $47,575.
42. Montana: $47,865
Up next is Montana, whose name stems from the Spanish word for mountain, "montaña" - and it's not hard to see why. The Treasure State is part of the US's Mountain West subregion and is filled with countless breathtaking views, making it a go-to for hikers.
From Glacier National Park and Lake McDonald to Whitefish Mountain Resort, there's a little something for all nature-lovers. And according to the US census, just over 1 million people enjoy Montana full-time. The gorgeous state has a GDP of around $51.93 billion and a GDP per capita of $47,865, per the World Population Review.
41. New Mexico: $47,875
If ever there was a state filled with rich culture, it's arguably New Mexico. Bordered by Utah, Colorado, Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma, and the Mexican states of Chihuahua and Sonora, NM boasts a mix of heritages and history. And that's likely what earned it the nickname Land of Enchantment.
And if the state's year-round beauty wasn't enough, New Mexico also hosts annual cultural events like the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, pictured above. The magical region has a GDP of roughly $100.78 billion and a GDP per capita of $47,875, according to the World Population Review.
40. Maine: $49,559
Taking us far from the south and all the way to the northeast is Maine. The Pine Tree State, which has a population of about 1.34 million, snags the 40th spot on this ranking. The World Population Review lists Maine's GDP at about $67.13 billion and their GDP per capita at $49,559.
And we bet a nice chunk of that money comes from selling their famous lobsters, which is one of the products Maine has become most known for. And those with seafood allergies need not worry; there's plenty to do when living in Maine aside from eating lobster.
39. Arizona: $50,305
Welcome to Arizona, the land of the Grand Canyon National Park, Saguaro National Park, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Havasu Falls. And believe it or not, those are just a few of the examples of nature's miracles in the Copper State.
Those who love endless miles of desert and cacti might want to consider a move to Arizona. And those who love forests and mountain rangers might want to check out the state's northern region. The World Population Review puts its GDP at around $378.30 billion and GDP per capita at $50,305.
38. Florida: $50,656
Next up is Florida, a vibrant attraction for visitors from all over the United States and the globe. According to the World Population Review, the lucky people who live there year-round have a GDP of about $1.11 trillion and a GDP per capita of $50,656.
The southern state enjoys coastlines to the east, south, and west thanks to its peninsula shape. And it's not called the Sunshine State for nothing: when it's not hurricane season, residents mostly experience sun and warmth year-round. Plus, rain or shine, Disney World is always fun!
37. Michigan: $52,523
Next up is Michigan, the only state to have two peninsulas and home to the longest freshwater coastline in the United States. The Great Lake State has a tremendous 3,288-mile-long coastline and has, perhaps not surprisingly, become famous for its fishing.
Thanks to its fishing and other agricultural endeavors, Michigan has amassed a GDP of about $524.83 billion, according to the World Population Review. The site lists its GDP per capita as $52,523. So those with a love for water can become one of the nearly 10 million people that enjoy what Michigan has to offer.
36. Missouri: $52,819
Heading to the midwest and bordered by a whopping eight other states is Missouri. The beautiful state is home to over 6 million people, landing it in the top 20 most populated states in the US, with two of its most bustling cities being St. Louis and Kansas City.
Residents (and visitors) can enjoy the Gateway Arch, one of the state's most famous landmarks in the city - and then enjoy some nature at Forest Park! According to the World Population Review, Missouri has a GDP of roughly $325.84 billion and a GDP per capita of $52,819.
35. Louisiana: $52,859
Coming in hot with spot number 35 on our ranking is Louisiana, one of the United States' most unique melting pots. With a blend of French, African, French-Canadian, and American culture, Louisiana dwellers have access to great music and food year-round.
There's no doubt the southern state is best known for its largest city, New Orleans - and the annual jazz and Mardi Gras festivals that take place there! Louisiana has a GDP of about $244.58 billion and a GDP per capita of $52,859, as reported by the World Population Review.
34. Tennessee: $53,146
Anyone looking for a bustling state filled with landmarks and fun need look no further than good ol' Tennessee. We're talking Graceland, the famed home of Elvis Presley, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the impressive Tennessee Aquarium, and Dollywood.
And perhaps the best part of all is that residents can enjoy all their state has to offer while munching on delicious food along the way. According to the World Population Review, Tennessee has a GDP of roughly $369.06 billion and a GDP per capita of $53,146.
33. Vermont: $53,394
Vermont has a population of around 643,500 individuals and is home to the least-populated state capital in the country. The upside? Fewer people means more peace and quiet to enjoy Vermont's beauty - and the Green Mountain State is absolutely filled with scenic views.
Much of that beauty is thanks to the Green Mountains, which stretch all the way from the north to the south along the middle of Vermont - hence its nickname. The World Population Review lists the state's GDP at around $33.28 billion and its GDP per capita at $53,394.
32. Nevada: $55,091
What happens in Vegas allegedly stays in Vegas, but we can't say the same for the rest of Nevada. According to World Population Review, the Silver State has a GDP of about $175.51 billion and a per capita GDP of $55,901 - earning it the 32nd spot on our ranking.
Much of that wealth comes from Sin City, as approximately three-quarters of the state's population lives in Clark County, the greater home of Las Vegas. Residents who don't love to party can bask in the glory of Nevada's Great Basin National Park or the Red Rock Canyon.
31. North Carolina: $55,520
Up next is North Carolina, famous around the United States for its competitive college basketball teams and the epic rivalry between the University of North Carolina's Tar Heels and Duke University's Blue Devils. And that's not all locals love about living there.
North Carolina is also known for delicious barbeques, shrimp, grits, and landmarks like Pisgah National Forest and Biltmore Estate. The World Population Review reports the state's GDP is around $594.13 billion and its GDP per capita is about $55,520.
30. Indiana: $55,732
Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 once sang, "I'm going back to Indiana, back to where I started from," and we can't blame 'em! The midwestern state is one of the largest steel producers in the country, one of the biggest auto manufacturers, and grows a lot of corn.
Each year, the state makes billions from corn sales. So what kind of money do all these industries make the Hoosier State? According to the World Population Review, Indiana has a GDP of about $379.29 billion and a per capita GDP of $55,732. Keep scrolling to find out which state's number one.
29. Rhode Island: $57,542
Landing the next spot on our list is gorgeous Rhode Island. The northeastern state was the first to declare its independence from the British in 1776. Today, it's home to some of the biggest remnants of the US's Gilded Age: mansions built by tycoons between the 1850s to 1900.
The most popular of these is The Breakers. The 70-room mansion was built by Cornelius Vanderbilt II in Newport and still stands today. The estate-filled state has a GDP of roughly $61.08 billion and a GDP per capita of $57,542, as listed by the World Population Review.
28. Georgia: $57,956
Following Rhode Island is the Peach State which, perhaps surprisingly, is also a huge producer of pecans, peanuts, and sweet Vidalia onions. And that's not all: Georgia is also home to various Fortune 500 companies and the headquarters of some Fortune 1000 companies.
Home Depot, Coca-Cola, and SunTrust Banks are all headquartered in Georgia, to name a few. Thanks mainly to the capital's bustling economy, the World Population Review reports Georgia's GDP is about $627.67 billion, and its GDP per capita is $57,956. Not too shabby!
27. Ohio: $58,342
Taking number 27 on this ranking of states' riches is the Buckeye State, nicknamed for the buckeye trees that once flourished in the area. But Ohio is a region so nice, it's been nicknamed twice: the midwestern state is also known as the Mother of Presidents.
The Buckeye State is one of the most populous in the country, as it's home to over 11 million people. From Columbus to Cleveland and Cincinnati, there's plenty to see. According to the World Population Review, Ohio's GDP is around $683.46 billion, and its GDP per capita is $58,342.
26. Wisconsin: $58,864
Sitcom lovers might immediately think to themselves, "Hello Wisconsin!" as we slide into the next state on our ranking. But America's Dairyland has a lot more to offer aside from being the setting for the hit series That '70s Show. Just like in many other parts of the US, nature worked its wonders here.
Wisconsin has such diverse geography that it's been divided into five geographic regions that range from lowlands to forests to mountains. The World Population Review lists the Badger State's GDP as about $344.50 billion and its GDP per capita as $58,864.
25. Oregon: $59,180
Oregon might just be the perfect place for those of us with a balanced passion for city life and nature. Outside of bustling Portland are endless natural attractions and landmarks: Crater Lake National Park, Mount Hood, Silver Falls State Park, Smith Rock State Park, and many more.
Nature's gifts have also helped the Beaver State's economy as its land is suited for various kinds of farming, from blueberries to hazelnuts. According to the World Population Review, Oregon boasts a GDP of roughly $253.85 billion and a GDP per capita of $59,180.
24. Texas: $59,607
The Lone Star State is number 24 on our ranking of states' wealth. The World Population Review lists its GDP at around $1.77 trillion and its per capita GDP at $59,607. Texas's economy results from a mixture of things, including its natural resources and its roughly 29 million residents.
The southern beauty offers natural getaways, like the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and cities like Austin and Dallas that are bursting with culture. Its urban areas are famous for their live music, delicious food - especially a good ol' Texan barbeque - and more.
23. Utah: $59,995
Next on our list and taking us back to the west is... Utah! The landlocked state sits snugly in the middle of Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, Arizona, Nevada, and a bit of New Mexico. Over 3 million people call Utah home, with around two-thirds of them living in Wasatch Front.
The Beehive State joined the Union in 1896 and has been growing ever since. According to the World Population Review, its GDP is about $198.63 billion, and its GDP per capita is $59,995. Some of Utah's major money-makers include mining, cattle ranching, and salt production.
22. Kansas: $60,148
Taking the next spot is Kansas, which was named after the Kansa Native Americans who once resided along the Kansas River. The Sunflower State joined the Union in 1861. Today, it has a GDP of roughly $175.47 billion and a GDP per capita of $60,148, per the World Population Review.
Much of the states' economy is based on agriculture, with almost 90% of its land used for the industry. Kansas mostly produces wheat, soybeans, cotton, sorghum, corn, salt, hogs, cattle, and sheep. In fact, its extensive wheat production has earned it a second nickname: the Wheat State.
21. Pennsylvania: $61,582
With a population of almost 13 million people, Pennsylvania is one of the biggest states in the nation. It was one of the thirteen British colonies that later came to form the United States. Today, it's a leader in manufacturing and home to various Fortune 500 companies.
The World Population Review lists the state's GDP as roughly $788.50 billion and its GDP per capita at $61,582. Residents of the Keystone State enjoy delicious food and a shared passion for sports. From the Steelers and the Eagles to the Pirates and the 76ers, there's no shortage of athletic entertainment.
20. South Dakota: $61,615
Up next is the home of Mount Rushmore: South Dakota. Located in the US's Great Plains, it became a state in 1889 and was named after the Native American tribes of Lakota and Dakota Sioux. Today, South Dakota has a population of under 1 million people.
According to the World Population Review, South Dakota has a GDP of about $55.24 billion and a per capita GDP of $61,615. The service industry and agriculture are huge parts of the region's economy. The state outputs cattle, corn, soybeans, hogs, and wheat among other products.
19. Iowa: $61,665
Sliding into the 19th spot is the Hawkeye State, which the World Population Review states has a GDP of roughly $195.35 billion and a GDP per capita of $61,665. The midwestern beauty is bordered by the Mississippi River, the Missouri River, the Big Sioux River, and six states.
Iowa is a hotbed for agriculture and one of the top locations for organic farming in the US. Since the second half of the 1900s, its now 3.15 million people population has also turned the state into a powerhouse of manufacturing, processing, biotechnology, and financial services.
18. Wyoming: $61,954
With a population of nearly 579,000 people and covering a region of 97,914 square miles, Wyoming is one of the least populous states in the country. Yet its high GDP per capita earns it a spot pretty far up in our ranking of the fifty states' riches.
According to theWorld Population Review, Wyoming has a GDP of about $36.00 billion and a GDP per capita of $61,954. But there's much more to the Cowboy State than money: Wyoming is known for its wildlife diversity and stunning natural landmarks, like Grand Teton National Park and Old Faithful.
17. New Hampshire: $62,905
Taking us back across the country and to the west's New England region is number 17: New Hampshire. The White Mountain State joined the Union in 1788. Today, its residents enjoy some of the nation's most scenic views, like Mount Washington and Wildcat Mountain.
New Hampshire's economy is based largely on agriculture and some industrial products. Dairy, cattle, apples, eggs, machinery, and electric equipment are all among the state's output. That's led them to a GDP of about $86.32 billion and a GDP per capita of $62,905, as reported by the World Population Review.
16. Hawaii: $63,897
With its picturesque beaches and amazing surf, Hawaii is one of the states that's known pretty much all over the world. Its been the inspiration for many songs and the backdrop to many movies, including Elvis's Blue Hawaii and, more recently, Forgetting Sarah Marshall.
And it's not hard to see why: Hawaii is unmatched in its natural beauty. From volcanoes and waterfalls to beaches, it's a sight for sore eyes - and so is its GDP. The World Population Review lists Hawaii's GDP as roughly $89.87 billion and its GDP per capita as $63,897.
15. Virginia: $64,852
Sliding into the 15th spot on our ranking is Virginia, also known as the "birthplace of a nation," as it was the first permanent English settlement in the now-United States. Since then, its population has grown to over 8.5 million - and Virginia's economy has grown along with it!
The World Population Review reports the southern state has a GDP of roughly $557.99 billion and a GDP per capita of $64,852. And today, Virginia's financial success comes from a variety of places: local and federal government offices, military, farming, and high-tech.
14. Nebraska: $66,476
With multiple member schools of the NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA, and NCCAA, it's not hard to see why sports are such a big part of the culture in Nebraska. And the midwestern state has plenty else to offer, including sites like the Chimney Rock Museum and Scotts Bluff National Monument.
Nebraska sits between South Dakota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, and Wyoming and has a population of nearly 2 million individuals. According to the World Population Review, the Cornhusker State has a GDP of about $129.76 billion and a GDP per capita of $66,476.
13. Minnesota: $66,485
Minnesota lands the number 13 spot on this ranking, in large part thanks to the Twin Cities: Saint Paul and Minneapolis. These two areas have a bustling economy as they're home to multiple Fortune 500 companies - including Best Buy, Target, and General Mills.
Plus, Bloomington's Mall of America is the largest in the country. All of that business has lent to its GDP of roughly $379.39 billion and GDP per capita of $66,485, as reported by the World Population Review. Aside from employment opportunities, Minnesota's natural wonders are another one of the states' highlights.
12. Colorado: $66,898
Up next is Colorado, a go-to destination for ski and hiking lovers alike. The beautiful state prides itself in its natural landmarks, like Rocky Mountain National Park, Mesa Verde, the Great Sand Dunes, and Pikes Peak. There's no shortage of nature-immersing opportunities here.
That certainly explains why tourism is such a big part of the state's economy, with millions of people visiting Colorado each year. The World Population Review reports that the Centennial State's GDP is around $394.27 billion and its GDP per capita is $66,898.
11. Alaska: $69,597
Taking the next spot and bringing us closer to the top 10 richest states is Alaska, the largest in the nation in terms of area. Despite its great size, the state is home to just over 730,000 people. The state's population has increased slightly over the last decade, according to the US Census Bureau.
Alaska's economy is largely reliant on the oil and gas industry, with most of the state's money coming from there. So how much does that get them? Per the World Population Review, Alaska has a GDP of about $50.41 billion and a GDP per capita of $69,597. Keep scrolling to see who's number 1!
10. Illinois: $69,667
Taking us into the top 10 states with the highest GDP per capita is the one-and-only Prairie State. Because it's is home to both industrial cities and farmland, Illinois's revenue comes from a variety of sources. The region also has access to natural resources, including coal, timber, and petroleum.
And all of that gets the Land of Lincoln a hefty GDP. According to the World Population Review, Illinois has a GDP of roughly $875.67 billion and a GDP per capita of $69,667. Of course, there's much more to this profitable state than money, with the Windy City being one of the country's cultural hubs.
9. North Dakota: $70,185
Up next is North Dakota, which the World Population Review reports has a GDP of about $54.04 billion and GDP per capita of $70,185. And before the breakout of the pandemic, the Flickertail State had mostly been steadily increasing in job opportunities and revenue.
North Dakota's early economy relied heavily on fur trading and agriculture. The latter remains an important part of their employment sector today, along with the petroleum industry, food processing, and technology. For example, both Microsoft and Amazon run large campuses in the state.
8. Maryland: $70,500
The Old Line State comes in as number 8 on our ranking. Maryland sits in the US's Mid-Atlantic region, bordered by Virginia, West Virginia, Washington, DC, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. A little over six million people call this historic state their home.
According to the World Population Review, Maryland's GDP is around $427.62 billion, and its GDP per capita is $70,500. The state benefits greatly from its closeness to Washington, DC, with the federal government establishing offices in Maryland, too. Commercial fishing is another big financial contributor.
7. New Jersey: $70,501
The Garden State comfortably takes the next spot on our ranking. Nearly 9 million people call New Jersey their home, and it's not hard to see why. From Liberty State Park and Atlantic City to Six Flags Great Adventure, there's plenty to do. And when residents are bored, they can hope on over to NYC.
The Garden State takes pride in its delicious food and access to beaches. And New Jersey has a diverse economy that relies on everything from the pharmaceutical industry to food processing. According to the World Population Review, it has a GDP of roughly $625.66 billion and a GDP per capita of $70,501.
6. Delaware: $77,214
Welcome to Delaware, one of the Thirteen Colonies that later formed the US and the first state to have ratified the Constitution back in 1787. Today, the Blue Hen State has a population of under 1 million but a hefty GDP per capita that lands them on our ranking's top ten.
The World Population Review lists Delaware's GDP as roughly $76.47 billion and its GDP per capita as $77,214. The First State's economy benefits partially from agriculture, as Delaware outputs poultry, soybeans, dairy products, and corn. Other dominant industries include education, banking, and retail.
5. California: $78,771
Bringing us into the top five is the Golden State. With over 39 million people residing in California, it's hands-down the most populated state in the US! More than 18 million of those residents call Los Angeles home, while another nearly 10 million live in the San Francisco Bay Area.
California is filled with endless attractions from the north all the way down to the south. Whether it's going to national parks or spending a day in Disneyland, there's plenty to do. According to the World Population Review, the grand state has a GDP of about $3.12 trillion and a GDP per capita of $78,771.
4. Connecticut: $79,824
Connecticut: home of Yale University and the birthplace of popular sports channel ESPN. Not a bad way to be remembered around the country! The Constitution State is part of the New England region and sits snugly between Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New York, and the Long Island Sound.
The state's economy benefits greatly from the many financial institutions headquartered there, including Bridgewater Associates and People's United Financial. The World Population Review reports that Connecticut's GDP is about $283.60 billion and its GDP per capita is $79,824.
3. Washington: $81,059
Inching us closer to the number one state is Washington, which takes the third spot on our ranking thanks to their hefty numbers. The state has a GDP of roughly $632.01 billion and a GDP per capita of $81,059, as listed online by the World Population Review.
Washington has over 7.5 million residents chugging away and growing its economy. The Evergreen State is home to some of the nation's biggest companies, including Boeing, Starbucks, Amazon, Costco, and Microsoft. Washington prides itself in being a huge output of STEM work.
2. Massachusetts: $85,400
The Bay State is next on our ranking of states' wealth, and the numbers speak for themselves. According to the World Population Review, Massachusetts has a GDP of about $590.31 billion and a GDP per capita of $85,400. And there is tons to do in the New England state aside from financial opportunities.
Thanks to its leading role in the start of the American Revolution, Massachusetts is filled with beautiful landmarks and history. Residents can follow the Freedom Trail through Boston during the day and enjoy a good game of ball at Fenway Park in the evening.
1. New York: $88,349
It might not be surprising to some that the Empire State lands at number one on our ranking! New York has a GDP of roughly $1.71 trillion and a GDP per capita of $88,349, per the World Population Review. Its financial success is due in large to its great population of nearly 8.5 million people.
It's no secret that much of New York's economy relies on the finance industry, with Wall Street a dominant force in the city's Lower Manhattan. The Empire State also has Silicon Alley in NYC, Tech Valley outside of the city, and, of course, a lot of tourism.