Gun Ownership by State

Map

Table

Introduction

Gun ownership is a key issue of debate in the US, as it is both enshrined within the constitution and also a cause for great distress around the country. The Second Amendment of the US Constitution guarantees citizens the right to bear arms, while many state and local governments enact various regulations that attempt to limit access to firearms as a way to prevent gun violence. For example, 19 states and the District of Columbia have enacted “red flag” laws that allow family members or law enforcement to ask a judge to temporarily remove guns from someone they deem dangerous. Several states also require background checks for all gun sales, including private transactions between individuals. Furthermore, some cities have implemented “assault weapons” bans or restrictions on high-capacity magazines – measures which are challenged in court by 2nd Amendment advocates who believe these infringe upon their rights as legal gun owners. Despite these attempts at maintaining control over firearm access and use, there are still millions of people across the country who own guns for sport hunting or self-defense purposes. Balancing these often competing needs presents a difficult challenge for policymakers as they seek to ensure the safety of their constituents without infringing upon individual liberties.

#StateGun Ownership RateRegistered Gun RateGun Death RateRed or Blue State
1Montana65.7%33.2 per 1k20.9 per 100k Republican
2Wyoming60.7%245.8 per 1k25.9 per 100k Republican
3West Virginia60.6%92.8 per 1k18.1 per 100k Republican
4Idaho57.8%40.2 per 1k17.6 per 100k Republican
5Alaska57.2%38.5 per 1k23.5 per 100k Republican
6South Dakota55.6%72.2 per 1k13.6 per 100k Republican
7Oklahoma54.9%25.9 per 1k20.7 per 100k Republican
8Mississippi54.1%27.4 per 1k28.6 per 100k Republican
9North Dakota53.3%40 per 1k13.8 per 100k Republican
10Alabama52.8%38.7 per 1k23.6 per 100k Republican
11Missouri52.8%18.4 per 1k23.9 per 100k Republican
12Kentucky52.5%24.1 per 1k20.1 per 100k Republican
13Louisiana52.3%32.9 per 1k26.3 per 100k Republican
14Arkansas51.8%44.3 per 1k22.6 per 100k Republican
15Vermont50.3%14.6 per 1k11.6 per 100k Democrat
16Maine47.7%15.6 per 1k10.4 per 100k Democrat
17Wisconsin47.1%16.3 per 1k12.2 per 100k Democrat
18Tennessee46.9%21.7 per 1k21.3 per 100k Republican
19New Hampshire46.3%52.1 per 1k8.9 per 100k Democrat
20South Carolina45.5%23 per 1k22 per 100k Republican
21Indiana42.4%23.1 per 1k17.3 per 100k Republican
22Kansas42.3%23.8 per 1k16.9 per 100k Republican
23Ohio41.9%17.7 per 1k15.2 per 100k Republican
24Oregon41.4%23 per 1k13 per 100k Democrat
25Pennsylvania40.2%26.9 per 1k13.6 per 100k Democrat
26Utah39.7%3.4 per 1k13.6 per 100k Republican
27Nebraska39.2%22 per 1k10.1 per 100k Republican
28Minnesota39.1%22.7 per 1k8.9 per 100k Democrat
29Michigan38.9%10.9 per 1k14.6 per 100k Democrat
30Delaware38.7%6.1 per 1k14.4 per 100k Democrat
31Iowa38.5%17 per 1k11.2 per 100k Republican
32Colorado37.9%25.7 per 1k15.4 per 100k Democrat
33Georgia37.7%28.2 per 1k17.7 per 100k Democrat
34North Carolina37.1%21.1 per 1k16 per 100k Republican
35Arizona36.4%35.6 per 1k16.7 per 100k Democrat
36New Mexico35.9%58.1 per 1k22.7 per 100k Democrat
37Texas35.5%34.1 per 1k14.2 per 100k Republican
38Virginia35.3%49 per 1k13.4 per 100k Democrat
39Nevada32.9%37.9 per 1k17 per 100k Democrat
40Washington32.1%1.2 per 1k10.9 per 100k Democrat
41Florida28.8%23.8 per 1k13.7 per 100k Republican
42Illinois22.6%11.4 per 1k14.1 per 100k Democrat
43Connecticut18.8%20.8 per 1k6 per 100k Democrat
44Maryland16.7%22.1 per 1k13.5 per 100k Democrat
45California16.3%10.4 per 1k8.5 per 100k Democrat
46New York14.5%4.6 per 1k5.3 per 100k Democrat
47Rhode Island13.9%4.5 per 1k5.1 per 100k Democrat
48Massachusetts9.9%6.5 per 1k3.7 per 100k Democrat
49Hawaii9.1%6.4 per 1k3.4 per 100k Democrat
50New Jersey8.9%1.1 per 1k5 per 100k Democrat

Gun Ownership by State

Gun ownership rates vary greatly from state to state in the United States – some states having gun ownership rates well over 60%, while other states have gun ownership rates below 10%. For example, Montana has the highest rate of gun ownership at 65.7%, followed by Wyoming, West Virginia and Idaho, with 60.7%, 60.6% and 57.8%, respectively. At the other end of the spectrum can be found states like Hawaii, New Jersey and Massachusetts, which have the lowest rates of gun ownership at 9.1%, 8.9% and 9.9%, respectively. There are different reasons that can explain these stark differences between states when it comes to gun ownership in America. Generally, when measuring gun ownership by state, one needs to consider the population’s size, as states that have a smaller population but large numbers of gun owners would rank higher than larger states like Texas or California for example. Furthermore, state laws governing gun control play an important role when it comes to determining overall firearm ownership rates across different regions of the US – for example, states with stricter gun control laws tend to have lower levels of gun ownership compared to those with less restrictive legislation on the matter.

Gun Ownership Rates by State

1. Montana – 65.7%
2. Wyoming – 60.7%
3. West Virginia – 60.6%
4. Idaho – 57.8%
5. Alaska – 57.2%
6. South Dakota – 55.6%
7. Oklahoma – 54.9%
8. Mississippi – 54.1%
9. North Dakota – 53.3%
10. Alabama – 52.8%
11. Missouri – 52.8%
12. Kentucky – 52.5%
13. Louisiana – 52.3%
14. Arkansas – 51.8%
15. Vermont – 50.3%
16. Maine – 47.7%
17. Wisconsin – 47.1%
18. Tennessee – 46.9%
19. New Hampshire – 46.3%
20. South Carolina – 45.5%
21. Indiana – 42.4%
22. Kansas – 42.3%
23. Ohio – 41.9%
24. Oregon – 41.4%
25. Pennsylvania – 40.2%
26. Utah – 39.7%
27. Nebraska – 39.2%
28. Minnesota – 39.1%
29. Michigan – 38.9%
30. Delaware – 38.7%
31. Iowa – 38.5%
32. Colorado – 37.9%
33. Georgia – 37.7%
34. North Carolina – 37.1%
35. Arizona – 36.4%
36. New Mexico – 35.9%
37. Texas – 35.5%
38. Virginia – 35.3%
39. Nevada – 32.9%
40. Washington – 32.1%
41. Florida – 28.8%
42. Illinois – 22.6%
43. Connecticut – 18.8%
44. Maryland – 16.7%
45. California – 16.3%
46. New York – 14.5%
47. Rhode Island – 13.9%
48. Massachusetts – 9.9%
49. Hawaii – 9.1%
50. New Jersey – 8.9%

States With Highest Gun Ownership

The states with the highest gun ownership rates are Montana, Wyoming, West Virginia, Idaho, Alaska, South Dakota, Oklahoma, Mississippi, North Dakota, and Alabama. The state with the highest gun ownership rate is Montana, with a household firearm ownership rate of 65.7%. The second state with the highest gun ownership rate is Wyoming, with a firearm ownership rate of 60.7%. The third and fourth states with the highest gun ownership rates are West Virginia, at a gun ownership rate of 60.6%, and Idaho, with a 57.8% household gun ownership rate. The fifth state with the highest gun ownership rate is Alaska, with a rate of 57.2%. The sixth, seventh, and eighth states with the highest gun ownership rates are South Dakota (55.6%), Oklahoma (54.9%), and Mississippi (54.1%). The ninth state with the highest gun ownership rate is North Dakota, with a household firearm ownership rate of 53.3%. And the tenth state with the highest gun ownership rate is Alabama, with a rate of 52.8%.

States With Highest Gun Ownership Rates

1. Montana – 65.7%
2. Wyoming – 60.7%
3. West Virginia – 60.6%
4. Idaho – 57.8%
5. Alaska – 57.2%
6. South Dakota – 55.6%
7. Oklahoma – 54.9%
8. Mississippi – 54.1%
9. North Dakota – 53.3%
10. Alabama – 52.8%

States With Lowest Gun Ownership

The states with the lowest gun ownership rates are New Jersey, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, California, Maryland, Connecticut, Illinois, and Florida. New Jersey has the lowest household firearm ownership rate, with a rate of 8.9%. The second lowest gun ownership rate by state is Hawaii, with a rate of 9.1%. Massachusetts has the third lowest gun ownership rate, at 9.9%. The fourth and fifth states with the lowest household gun ownership rates are Rhode Island and New York, with rates of 13.9% and 14.5% respectively. The sixth state with the lowest gun ownership rate is California, at 16.3%, while the seventh state with the lowest rate is Maryland, at 16.7%. Finally, the eighth, ninth, and tenth states with the lowest gun ownership rates are Connecticut (18.8%), Illinois (22.6%), and Florida (28.8%).

States With Lowest Gun Ownership Rates

1. New Jersey – 8.9%
2. Hawaii – 9.1%
3. Massachusetts – 9.9%
4. Rhode Island – 13.9%
5. New York – 14.5%
6. California – 16.3%
7. Maryland – 16.7%
8. Connecticut – 18.8%
9. Illinois – 22.6%
10. Florida – 28.8%

Gun Ownership Rate by State

Alabama

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52.8%

Ranked in the US

#10

38.7 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#11

23.6 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#5

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Alabama is 52.8%, ranking the state tenth in terms of gun ownership rate in the country. Part of the traditionally well-armed southern bloc, Alabama puts few limits on firearm sales or possession beyond those required by federal law. Certain “armor-piercing” ammunition is forbidden, but large-caliber weapons and large-scale purchases pass muster. Persons can also carry concealed firearms in Alabama without a permit.

Gun Ownership Rate

Registered Gun Rate

Gun Death Rate

Alaska

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57.2%

Ranked in the US

#5

38.5 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#12

23.5 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#6

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Alaska is 57.2%, ranking the state fifth in terms of gun ownership rate. Alaska’s distantly-spread human population and seemingly boundless natural resources draws hunters both local, for subsistence, and tourists for bragging rights. Few regulations beyond mandatory federal limits impede firearm ownership and use in Alaska.

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Arizona

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36.4%

Ranked in the US

#35

35.6 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#14

16.7 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#20

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Arizona is 36.4%, ranking the state thirty-fifth in terms of gun ownership rate. This percentage has dropped significantly since 1980. Laws restricting firearms remain scarce and unchanged, though. Limits on firearm ownership and use largely instead come from federal law. Persons over 21 who can otherwise possess firearms may carry those arms concealed without a permit.

Gun Ownership Rate

Registered Gun Rate

Gun Death Rate

Arkansas

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51.8%

Ranked in the US

#14

44.3 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#8

22.6 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#8

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Arkansas is 51.8%, ranking the state fourteenth in terms of gun ownership rate. Permits are required to carry concealed firearms, but authorities “shall issue” those permits to any applicant who meets written criteria. No limits exist on bulk sales, and other regulation is generally only as federal law requires.

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California

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16.3%

Ranked in the US

#45

10.4 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#43

8.5 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#44

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in California is 16.3%, ranking the state forty-fifth in terms of gun ownership rate. Open carry, common elsewhere, is forbidden without appropriate permitting. Only permit holders can legally carry concealed firearms. New California laws in 2022 further tightened restrictions on manufacturing, marketing, and professionalism involving firearms. “Ghost” guns, homemade weapons built with unregulated parts from 3-D printers or other means, became subject to specific regulation.

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Colorado

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37.9%

Ranked in the US

#32

25.7 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#22

15.4 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#22

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Colorado is 37.9%, ranking the state thirty-second in terms of gun ownership rates. Those carrying concealed firearms must hold permits, obtainable after showing competence or training coursework with firearms.

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Connecticut

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18.8%

Ranked in the US

#43

20.8 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#34

6 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#45

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Connecticut is 18.8%, ranking the state forty-three in terms of gun ownership rate. No permit is necessary to carry weapons in home or business, but any public carriage, open or concealed, requires a permit. Permits are also required for ammunition or magazine purchases. Assault rifles and certain types of ammunition are banned.

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Delaware

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38.7%

Ranked in the US

#30

6.1 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#46

14.4 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#25

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Delaware is 38.7%, ranking the state thirtieth in terms of gun ownership rate. Concealed firearms require a permit that is issued at the state actor’s discretion. Assault weapons and armor-piercing ammunition are forbidden.

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Florida

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28.8%

Ranked in the US

#41

23.8 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#24

13.7 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#29

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Florida is 28.8%, ranking the state forty-first in terms of gun ownership rate. Florida follows federal restrictions, but does not add much additional burden to firearms ownership. Only permit holders may lawfully carry concealed weapons, but authorities “shall issue” those permits to anyone who meets written standards.

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Georgia

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37.7%

Ranked in the US

#33

28.2 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#18

17.7 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#15

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Georgia is 37.7%, ranking the state thirty-third in terms of gun ownership rate. Georgia puts few limits on firearm or ammunition possession, allowing open and concealed carry without a permit. Federal regulations are voiced in the State code, but localities in Georgia are forbidden from enacting stronger restrictions than State law provides.

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Hawaii

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9.1%

Ranked in the US

#49

6.4 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#45

3.4 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#50

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Hawaii is 9.1%, ranking the state forty-ninth in terms of gun ownership rate. This follows from strong restrictions on firearm and ammunition possession that exceed those demanded under federal law. Concealed weapons are forbidden without a permit. Firearms must be secured from minors’ possession, though minors may possess and use some weapons under conditions.

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Idaho

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57.8%

Ranked in the US

#4

40.2 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#9

17.6 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#16

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Idaho is 57.8%, ranking the state fourth in terms of gun ownership rate. In Idaho federal law more stringently regulates firearms than the State. Fairly much anything is okay for adults among the 1.9 million Idahoans, and minors (under 16) largely get free rein under supervision (subject to federal limits as to firearms and ammunition).

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Illinois

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22.6%

Ranked in the US

#42

11.4 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#41

14.1 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#27

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Illinois is 22.6%, ranking the state forty-second in terms of gun ownership rate. With over one-sixth of Illinois’ 12 million residents living in Chicago, State firearms law often reflects the needs and necessities of Chicago’s crime-fighting. Thus, residents require a State Police issues “Firearm Owner’s Identification” card to lawfully possess any firearm or ammunition in Illinois.

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Indiana

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42.4%

Ranked in the US

#21

23.1 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#26

17.3 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#17

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Indiana is 40%, ranking the state twenty-first in terms of gun ownership rate. Indiana is a relatively permissive State for firearm possession and ownership, with federal law typically driving regulations. No permit is necessary to carry concealed firearms, and only armor-piercing ammunition is limited.

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Iowa

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38.5%

Ranked in the US

#31

17 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#37

11.2 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#38

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Iowa is 38.5%, ranking the state thirty-seventh in terms of gun ownership rate. Concealed carry permits are no longer required, even within city limits, as of July 2021. Iowa does require that firearms be secured from access by minors under 14. State law generally prohibits firearm possession by anyone convicted of a domestic violence misdemeanor.

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Kansas

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42.3%

Ranked in the US

#22

23.8 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#25

16.9 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#19

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Kansas is 42.3%, ranking the state twenty-second in terms of gun owneship rate. Besides plastic-coated bullets, ammunition is allowed in Kansas. Concealed carry laws were amended in 2015 to eliminate permitting requirements for persons over age 21, though those under 21 can conceal weapons on their own property. Permits are still available for interstate reciprocity purposes.

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Kentucky

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52.5%

Ranked in the US

#12

24.1 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#23

20.1 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#13

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Kentucky is 52.5%, ranking the state twelve in terms of gun ownership rate. Still a largely rural State, Kentucky allows open carry and, in 2019, removed permit requirements for anyone over 21 carrying concealed firearms. Few other State restrictions limit firearms, while federal law offers more stringent restrictions than Kentucky against domestic violence offenders possessing firearms.

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Louisiana

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52.3%

Ranked in the US

#13

32.9 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#17

26.3 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#2

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Louisiana is 52.3%, ranking the state thirteenth in terms of gun ownership rate. Louisiana bans armor-piercing ammunition, but otherwise leaves firearm regulation largely to federal authorities. No limit exists on bulk firearm or ammunition purchases. A permit is necessary to carry concealed firearms, but those permits “shall issue” to qualified applicants without official discretion.

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Maine

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47.7%

Ranked in the US

#16

15.6 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#39

10.4 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#40

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Maine is 47.7%, ranking the state sixteenth in terms of gun ownership rate. Largely rural and relatively sparsely populated, Maine puts few restrictions on its firearm owners.

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Maryland

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16.7%

Ranked in the US

#44

22.1 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#30

13.5 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#33

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Maryland is 16.7%, ranking the state forty-fourth in terms of gun ownership rate. Like Illinois, partially-rural Maryland finds firearms policies tightened to battle violence in Baltimore City and its outlying counties. Assault-style firearms are barred, and .50 caliber weapons are regulated. Any carry of firearms, open or concealed, requires a permit after training, except when on the individual’s property or business.

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Massachusetts

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9.9%

Ranked in the US

#48

6.5 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#44

3.7 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#49

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Massachusetts is 9.9%, ranking the state forty-eighth in terms of gun ownership rate. Either a “Firearm Identification Cards” or a “License to Carry” is required to possess in Massachusetts, and any public carry requires a permit after training and discretionary approval. Assault-style weapons are generally banned in Massachusetts.

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Michigan

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38.9%

Ranked in the US

#29

10.9 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#42

14.6 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#24

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Michigan is 38.9%, ranking the state twenty-ninth in terms of gun ownership rate. Michigan does not bar assault weapons. Armor-piercing ammunition is specifically banned. Persons wanting to carry concealed firearms must complete a safety course to obtain a permit, that “shall issue” if all other conditions are met.

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Minnesota

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39.1%

Ranked in the US

#28

22.7 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#29

8.9 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#42

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Minnesota is 39.1%, ranking the state twenty-eighth in terms of gun ownership. Regulations generally track federal laws. Assault-style weapons are regulated specially, but not specifically banned. Carrying any concealable firearm in public spaces requires a permit and safety training, except for limited transportation circumstances or on one’s own property.

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Mississippi

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54.1%

Ranked in the US

#8

27.4 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#19

28.6 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#1

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Mississippi is 54.1%, ranking the state eighth in terms of gun ownership rate. Armor-piercing ammunition is forbidden, but otherwise residents who can lawfully possess firearms can also possess ammunition, and may do so without a permit. Carrying concealed firearms without permit was authorized in 2016. Concealed carry permits must still issue to qualified applicants, for reciprocity privileges in coordinating States.

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Missouri

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52.8%

Ranked in the US

#11

18.4 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#35

23.9 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#4

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Missouri is 52.8%, ranking the state eleventh in terms of gun ownership rate. Explosive ammunition is forbidden, but few other purchasing limits exist beyond the federal floor. Adults not otherwise prohibited from possession may carry concealed firearms without a permit. Concealed carry permits are still available.

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Montana

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65.7%

Ranked in the US

#1

33.2 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#16

20.9 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#11

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Montana is 65.7%, ranking the state first in terms of gun ownership rate. Sparsely-populated Montana restricts little about firearms, meeting but not exceeding federal standards. No prohibitions exist against weapon or ammunition types. Requirements for permits to carry concealed weapons was lifted in February 2021, though permits after background checks shall still issue to those meeting criteria.

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Nebraska

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39.2%

Ranked in the US

#27

22 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#31

10.1 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#41

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Nebraska is 39.2%, ranking the state twenty-seventh in terms of gun ownership rate. Federal restrictions exceed most of Montana’s firearm requirements, though permits after training are still required to obtain concealed carry permits. Those permits “shall issue” to qualified applicants, within weeks of application.

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Nevada

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32.9%

Ranked in the US

#39

37.9 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#13

17 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#18

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Nevada is 32.9%, ranking the state thirty-ninth in terms of gun ownership. Largely rural with population centers at Reno and Las Vegas, Nevada does not impose many regulations beyond the federal floor. Carrying concealed firearms requires a permit, but those permits must issue to qualified applicants.

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New Hampshire

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46.3%

Ranked in the US

#19

52.1 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#6

8.9 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#43

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in New Hampshire is 46.3%, ranking the state nineteenth in terms of gun ownership rate. Bucking national trends, ownership has risen since 2000. Rural New Hampshire limits firearm regulations, relying on the federal legislative floor for most enforcement language. Anyone may carry concealed firearms in New Hampshire without a permit.

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New Jersey

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8.9%

Ranked in the US

#50

1.1 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#51

5 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#48

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in New Jersey is 8.9%, ranking the state fiftieth in terms of gun ownership rate. Firearm purchases require permits, and carrying firearms anywhere but one’s own property typically requires a permit that “may” issue, after meeting stringent training and other criteria. New Jersey prohibits both assault-style firearms and .50 caliber rifles.

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New Mexico

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35.9%

Ranked in the US

#36

58.1 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#5

22.7 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#7

Democrat

The gun ownership rate is New Mexico is 35.9%, ranking the state thirty-sixth in terms of gun ownership rate. Persons carrying concealed weapons must have a permit, that “shall issue” to qualified applicants. State laws restrict ownership from convicted felons for ten years and, since 2019, for specific “domestic” violence offenses. Otherwise little regulation exists in New Mexico, not even pre-sale background checks as federal law requires.

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New York

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14.5%

Ranked in the US

#46

4.6 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#47

5.3 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#46

Democrat

Gun Ownership Rate

Registered Gun Rate

Gun Death Rate

North Carolina

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37.1%

Ranked in the US

#34

21.1 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#33

16 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#21

Republican

The gun ownership rate in North Carolina is 37.1%, ranking the state thirty-fourth in terms of gun ownership rate. North Carolina follows federal leads on “prohibited persons,” but places few State restrictions on adult ownership of firearms. Concealed carry requires a permit, but it “shall issue” in due course.

Gun Ownership Rate

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North Dakota

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53.3%

Ranked in the US

#9

40 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#10

13.8 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#28

Republican

The gun ownership rate in North Dakota is 53.3%, ranking the state ninth in terms of gun ownership rate. In North Dakota open carry, assault-style weapons, and .50 caliber rifles are permitted, while concealed firearms can be carried without a permit. State law prohibits specific classes of persons from possessing firearms or ammunition.

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Ohio

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41.9%

Ranked in the US

#23

17.7 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#36

15.2 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#23

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Ohio is 41.9%, ranking the state twenty-third in terms of gun ownership rate. As of June 2022, 21-year-olds no longer need permits to carry concealed firearms. No restrictions exist on assault-style weapons, .50 caliber rifles, or ammunition. No “red flag” provisions for removing firearms from dangerous persons exist, though domestic violence orders include warnings about federal law.

Gun Ownership Rate

Registered Gun Rate

Gun Death Rate

Oklahoma

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54.9%

Ranked in the US

#7

25.9 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#21

20.7 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#12

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Oklahoma is 54.9%, ranking the state seventh in terms of gun ownership rate. Armor-piercing ammunition is forbidden, but otherwise anything within federal limits goes. Oklahoma repealed its carrying regulations, now allowing any adult to carry loaded firearms openly and concealed. No mechanism exists for disarming newly-prohibited persons.

Gun Ownership Rate

Registered Gun Rate

Gun Death Rate

Oregon

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41.4%

Ranked in the US

#24

23 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#27

13 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#35

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Oregon is 41.4%, ranking the state twenty-fourth in terms of gun ownership rate. Voters banned ammunition magazines holding more than ten rounds in November 2022, in Ballot Measure 114, and required transfer permits for all firearm transfers, even private hand-to-hand sales. No restrictions exist on assault-style rifles or ammunition, except armor-piercing rounds. Concealed firearms are permissible with a license.

Gun Ownership Rate

Registered Gun Rate

Gun Death Rate

Pennsylvania

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40.2%

Ranked in the US

#25

26.9 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#20

13.6 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#30

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Pennsylvania is 40.2%, ranking the state twenty-fifth in terms of gun ownership rate. With farm and hunting wilderness filling the leagues between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania’s firearm ownership has steadied between 37-40% since 1999. No restrictions exist against assault-style rifles, but concealed firearms require a permit. A separate crime exists for possessing armor-piercing ammunition while committing violent crimes.

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Registered Gun Rate

Gun Death Rate

Rhode Island

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13.9%

Ranked in the US

#47

4.5 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#48

5.1 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#47

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Rhode Island is 13.9%, ranking the state forty-seventh in terms of gun ownership rate. Any public carry of firearms requires a permit, which include two paths through separate requirements. Assault weapons are not distinctly regulated. Certain domestic violence misdemeanors can make an offender a “prohibited person,” while a 2018 law allows law enforcement to seek protective orders against dangerous persons possessing firearms.

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Gun Death Rate

South Carolina

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45.5%

Ranked in the US

#20

23 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#28

22 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#9

Republican

The gun ownership rate in South Carolina is 45.5%, ranking the state twentieth in terms of gun ownership rate. Legislation in 2012 repealed a melting point test, leaving no manufacturing or design regulations in place. Carry permits are required whether sidearms are carried concealed or openly. No limits exist on assault-style weapons or bulk sales, and only certain types of armor-piercing ammunition are forbidden. Certain domestic violence offenses and orders trigger “prohibited person” status.

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South Dakota

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55.6%

Ranked in the US

#6

72.2 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#4

13.6 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#31

Republican

The gun ownership rate in South Dakota is 55.6%, ranking the state sixth in terms of gun ownership rate. Few restrictions lie against owners in mostly rural South Dakota. Federal “prohibited person” limits are somewhat mimicked in State law, but otherwise little State control – including no requirements for background checks – applies. South Dakota’s legislature repealed concealed carry permitting requirements in 2019, so anyone may now carry concealed firearms. Permits are still available for reciprocity purposes.

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Gun Death Rate

Tennessee

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46.9%

Ranked in the US

#18

21.7 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#32

21.3 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#10

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Tennessee is 46.9%, ranking the state eighteenth in terms of gun ownership rate. In Tennessee there are no restrictions against possession of assault-style weapons or .50 caliber rifles. Tennessee still requires permits of those carrying concealed firearms, though anyone may openly carry those weapons. Domestic violence misdemeanants forbidden from possession by federal law are also forbidden in Tennessee, but no law exists to disarm dangerous or prohibited persons.

Gun Ownership Rate

Registered Gun Rate

Gun Death Rate

Texas

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35.5%

Ranked in the US

#37

34.1 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#15

14.2 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#26

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Texas is 35.5%, ranking the state thirty-seventh in terms of gun ownership rate. Its firearm-owning population faces few restrictions, however, with federal law prohibiting more persons from possession than State law. No limits exist on the numbers of firearms getting sold, assault-style weapons, .50 caliber rifles, or specific ammunition. Anyone over age 21 can carry a firearm, openly or concealed, without a permit.

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Registered Gun Rate

Gun Death Rate

Utah

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39.7%

Ranked in the US

#26

3.4 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#49

13.6 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#32

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Utah is 39.7%, ranking the state twenty-sixth in terms of gun ownership rate. Utah restricts who can possess firearms, and requires police to remove weapons involved in domestic violence calls. Otherwise little firearm regulation exists in Utah, including authority for any otherwise allowed adult to carry concealed firearms without a permit.

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Registered Gun Rate

Gun Death Rate

Vermont

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50.3%

Ranked in the US

#15

14.6 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#40

11.6 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#37

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Vermont is 50.3%, ranking the state fifthteenth in terms of gun ownership rate. A 2018 law allows certain prosecutors to petition for removal of firearms from homes of dangerous persons. No law prevents authorized adults from carrying concealed firearms.

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Virginia

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35.3%

Ranked in the US

#38

49 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#7

13.4 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#34

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Virginia is 35.3%, ranking the state thirty-eighth in terms of gun ownership rate. Some limits exist on assault-style weapons, but other restrictions focus on persons possessing firearms. Permits for concealed carry are required, and police or prosecutors may petition to remove firearms from dangerous persons’ homes.

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Washington

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32.1%

Ranked in the US

#40

1.2 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#50

10.9 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#39

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Washington is 32.1%, ranking the state fortieth in terms of gun ownership rate. Permit for ownership are not required, but permits are needed to carry concealed firearms. The state regulates possession and sales of assault-style weapons, and forbids a number of persons from possessing firearms – including those convicted of certain domestic offenses, or found not guilty for mental health reasons.

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Registered Gun Rate

Gun Death Rate

West Virginia

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60.6%

Ranked in the US

#3

92.8 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#3

18.1 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#14

Republican

The gun ownership rate in West Virginia is 60.6%, ranking the state third in terms of gun ownership rate. “Wild, wonderful West Virginia” is the tourist slogan, but also an apt description of the state’s relative dearth of firearm regulation. Besides prohibiting certain classes of persons from possession, the state takes no interest in conducting background checks or tracking who possesses what firearms.

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Wisconsin

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47.1%

Ranked in the US

#17

16.3 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#38

12.2 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#36

Democrat

The gun ownership rate in Wisconsin is 47.1%, ranking the state seventeenth in terms of gun ownership rate. Those carrying concealed weapons require a permit, and persons under court restraining orders or mental health commitments cannot possess firearms. No limits exist on assault-style weapons or .50 caliber rifles.

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Wyoming

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60.7%

Ranked in the US

#2

245.8 per 1k

Ranked in the US

#1

25.9 per 100k

Ranked in the US

#3

Republican

The gun ownership rate in Wyoming is 60.7%, ranking the state second in terms of gun ownership rate. Any authorized adult may carry any weapon, openly or concealed. Those convicted of violent felonies or assaulting police are prohibited from possession, but anyone else can buy anything on the licit market, without any state requirements for pre-sale background checks.

Gun Ownership Rate

Registered Gun Rate

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FAQs

What are the states with the highest gun ownership rates ?

The states with the highest gun ownership rates are Montana, Wyoming, West Virginia, Idaho, Alaska, South Dakota, Oklahoma, Mississippi, North Dakota, and Alabama.

What are the states with the lowest gun ownership rates ?

The states with the lowest gun ownership rates are New Jersey, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, California, Maryland, Connecticut, Illinois, and Florida.

What are the 10 states with the highest gun ownership ?

The 10 states with the highest gun ownership rates are :

1. Montana – 65.7%
2. Wyoming – 60.7%
3. West Virginia – 60.6%
4. Idaho – 57.8%
5. Alaska – 57.2%
6. South Dakota – 55.6%
7. Oklahoma – 54.9%
8. Mississippi – 54.1%
9. North Dakota – 53.3%
10. Alabama – 52.8%