Introduction
The United States has a total of 3,143 counties and county equivalents, serving as crucial units of local government. The number of counties varies across states due to factors like historical settlement patterns, geographical size, and population distribution.
Counties play a vital role in delivering services, enforcing regulations, and representing their communities. They enable decentralized governance and localized decision-making, addressing the diverse needs and concerns of different regions within the country. The county system reflects the nation’s rich diversity and showcases the intricate fabric of communities, cultures, and landscapes across the United States.
Number of Counties in the US
| # | State | Total Number of Counties | Total Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Texas | 254 | 268,596 mi² |
| 2 | Georgia | 159 | 59,425 mi² |
| 3 | Virginia | 133 | 42,775 mi² |
| 4 | Kentucky | 120 | 40,408 mi² |
| 5 | Missouri | 115 | 69,707 mi² |
| 6 | Kansas | 105 | 82,278 mi² |
| 7 | Illinois | 102 | 57,914 mi² |
| 8 | North Carolina | 100 | 53,819 mi² |
| 9 | Iowa | 99 | 56,273 mi² |
| 10 | Tennessee | 95 | 42,144 mi² |
| 11 | Nebraska | 93 | 77,348 mi² |
| 12 | Indiana | 92 | 36,420 mi² |
| 13 | Ohio | 88 | 44,826 mi² |
| 14 | Minnesota | 87 | 86,936 mi² |
| 15 | Michigan | 83 | 96,714 mi² |
| 16 | Mississippi | 82 | 48,432 mi² |
| 17 | Oklahoma | 77 | 69,899 mi² |
| 18 | Arkansas | 75 | 53,179 mi² |
| 19 | Wisconsin | 72 | 65,496 mi² |
| 20 | Alabama | 67 | 52,420 mi² |
| 21 | Florida | 67 | 65,758 mi² |
| 22 | Pennsylvania | 67 | 46,054 mi² |
| 23 | South Dakota | 66 | 77,116 mi² |
| 24 | Colorado | 64 | 104,094 mi² |
| 25 | Louisiana | 64 | 52,378 mi² |
| 26 | New York | 62 | 54,555 mi² |
| 27 | California | 58 | 163,695 mi² |
| 28 | Montana | 56 | 147,040 mi² |
| 29 | West Virginia | 55 | 24,230 mi² |
| 30 | North Dakota | 53 | 70,698 mi² |
| 31 | South Carolina | 46 | 32,020 mi² |
| 32 | Idaho | 44 | 83,569 mi² |
| 33 | Washington | 39 | 71,298 mi² |
| 34 | Oregon | 36 | 98,379 mi² |
| 35 | New Mexico | 33 | 121,590 mi² |
| 36 | Alaska | 30 | 665,384 mi² |
| 37 | Utah | 29 | 84,897 mi² |
| 38 | Maryland | 24 | 12,406 mi² |
| 39 | Wyoming | 23 | 97,813 mi² |
| 40 | New Jersey | 21 | 8,723 mi² |
| 41 | Nevada | 17 | 110,572 mi² |
| 42 | Maine | 16 | 35,380 mi² |
| 43 | Arizona | 15 | 113,990 mi² |
| 44 | Massachusetts | 14 | 10,554 mi² |
| 45 | Vermont | 14 | 9,616 mi² |
| 46 | New Hampshire | 10 | 9,349 mi² |
| 47 | Connecticut | 8 | 5,543 mi² |
| 48 | Hawaii | 5 | 10,932 mi² |
| 49 | Rhode Island | 5 | 1,545 mi² |
| 50 | Delaware | 3 | 2,489 mi² |
| 51 | District of Columbia | 1 | 68 mi² |
States With Most Counties
The United States is home to several states with the highest number of counties. Among them are Texas, Georgia, Virginia, Kentucky, Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, North Carolina, Iowa, and Tennessee. Texas tops the list of states with the most counties, with 254 counties. It is followed by Georgia, with 159 counties. Virginia ranks third for states with the most counties, with 133 counties, while Kentucky and Missouri secure the fourth and fifth positions with 120 and 115 counties, respectively. The sixth state with the most counties is Kansas, with 105 counties, while the seventh is Illinois, which has 102 counties. North Carolina has 100 counties, making it the eighth state with the most counties. Finally, Iowa and Tennessee round out the top ten states with the most counties, with 99 and 95 counties, respectively.
The ten states with the most counties are :
1. Texas – 254
2. Georgia – 159
3. Virginia – 133
4. Kentucky – 120
5. Missouri – 115
6. Kansas – 105
7. Illinois – 102
8. North Carolina – 100
9. Iowa – 99
10. Tennessee – 95
State With Most Counties
Texas holds the distinction of having the highest number of counties among all U.S. states. With a remarkable total of 254 counties, Texas boasts a diverse and expansive local governance structure. This multitude of counties allows for efficient administration and localized decision-making throughout the state, ensuring that the unique needs and concerns of its vast and diverse population are effectively addressed. The extensive county system in Texas facilitates the delivery of essential services and enables tailored governance at the community level, highlighting the state’s commitment to effective local representation and administration.
Most Counties by State
Alabama
Total Number of Counties
67
Ranked in the US
#20
Total Area
52,420 mi²
Ranked in the US
#30
Alabama has 67 counties, providing a comprehensive local governance structure across the state's diverse landscapes and communities.
Alaska
Total Number of Counties
30
Ranked in the US
#36
Total Area
665,384 mi²
Ranked in the US
#1
Despite its immense size, Alaska has 30 counties, ensuring localized representation and services are delivered efficiently throughout this vast and sparsely populated state.
Arizona
Total Number of Counties
15
Ranked in the US
#43
Total Area
113,990 mi²
Ranked in the US
#6
Arizona has 15 counties, allowing for effective administration and governance tailored to the unique needs of its residents and the diverse landscapes found within the state.
Arkansas
Total Number of Counties
75
Ranked in the US
#18
Total Area
53,179 mi²
Ranked in the US
#29
With 75 counties, Arkansas benefits from a well-distributed county system that supports local representation and efficient delivery of public services to its communities.
California
Total Number of Counties
58
Ranked in the US
#27
Total Area
163,695 mi²
Ranked in the US
#3
California has 58 counties, reflecting the state's vast and diverse population, as well as its diverse geography, from coastal regions to mountainous areas and expansive deserts.
Colorado
Total Number of Counties
64
Ranked in the US
#24
Total Area
104,094 mi²
Ranked in the US
#8
Colorado has 64 counties, providing a robust framework for localized governance and ensuring efficient service delivery across its breathtaking mountain ranges and vast plains.
Connecticut
Total Number of Counties
8
Ranked in the US
#47
Total Area
5,543 mi²
Ranked in the US
#48
Connecticut has 8 counties, reflecting its smaller geographical size and a more centralized approach to governance within this densely populated state.
Delaware
Total Number of Counties
3
Ranked in the US
#50
Total Area
2,489 mi²
Ranked in the US
#49
Delaware has 3 counties, reflecting its compact size and streamlined administrative structure within this small but vibrant state.
District of Columbia
Total Number of Counties
1
Ranked in the US
#51
Total Area
68 mi²
Ranked in the US
#51
Florida
Total Number of Counties
67
Ranked in the US
#21
Total Area
65,758 mi²
Ranked in the US
#22
Florida has 67 counties, allowing for effective representation and tailored services across its diverse population and popular tourist destinations.
Georgia
Total Number of Counties
159
Ranked in the US
#2
Total Area
59,425 mi²
Ranked in the US
#24
Georgia is the second state with the most counties, with 159 counties. Despite being smaller in area compared to Texas, Georgia's counties span 59,425 square miles. The numerous counties in Georgia facilitate efficient local government and community management.
Hawaii
Total Number of Counties
5
Ranked in the US
#48
Total Area
10,932 mi²
Ranked in the US
#43
Hawaii has 5 counties, comprising the islands of Hawaii, Maui, Honolulu, Kauai, and Kalawao, facilitating localized governance in this tropical paradise.
Idaho
Total Number of Counties
44
Ranked in the US
#32
Total Area
83,569 mi²
Ranked in the US
#14
Idaho has 44 counties, offering a decentralized administrative structure that caters to the diverse needs of its residents, from bustling urban areas to vast wilderness.
Illinois
Total Number of Counties
102
Ranked in the US
#7
Total Area
57,914 mi²
Ranked in the US
#25
Illinois has 102 counties, ensuring effective governance across its agricultural heartland, major cities like Chicago, and diverse rural communities.
Indiana
Total Number of Counties
92
Ranked in the US
#12
Total Area
36,420 mi²
Ranked in the US
#38
Iowa
Total Number of Counties
99
Ranked in the US
#9
Total Area
56,273 mi²
Ranked in the US
#26
Iowa has 99 counties, reflecting its agricultural heritage and commitment to local governance and public service delivery throughout the state.
Kansas
Total Number of Counties
105
Ranked in the US
#6
Total Area
82,278 mi²
Ranked in the US
#15
Kansas has 105 counties, enabling efficient representation and administration in both urban and rural areas, supporting local decision-making and community development.
Kentucky
Total Number of Counties
120
Ranked in the US
#4
Total Area
40,408 mi²
Ranked in the US
#37
Kentucky ranks fourth state with the most counties, with 120 counties. These counties cover an area of 40,408 square miles, providing local governments with a means to address the needs of their unique communities effectively. Kentucky's county system allows for tailored governance and public service delivery across the state.
Louisiana
Total Number of Counties
64
Ranked in the US
#25
Total Area
52,378 mi²
Ranked in the US
#31
Louisiana has 64 counties, known as parishes, allowing for efficient governance and tailored services in this culturally rich and diverse state.
Maine
Total Number of Counties
16
Ranked in the US
#42
Total Area
35,380 mi²
Ranked in the US
#39
Maine has 16 counties, reflecting its rugged coastline, vast forests, and smaller population, supporting localized governance in this northeastern state.
Maryland
Total Number of Counties
24
Ranked in the US
#38
Total Area
12,406 mi²
Ranked in the US
#42
Maryland has 24 counties, including the city of Baltimore, ensuring effective local representation and governance within this diverse state.
Massachusetts
Total Number of Counties
14
Ranked in the US
#44
Total Area
10,554 mi²
Ranked in the US
#44
Massachusetts has 14 counties, providing a framework for local governance and tailored services across the state's historic cities, coastal areas, and rural regions.
Michigan
Total Number of Counties
83
Ranked in the US
#15
Total Area
96,714 mi²
Ranked in the US
#11
Michigan has 83 counties, supporting efficient administration and localized decision-making throughout its expansive Great Lakes region and diverse urban and rural areas.
Minnesota
Total Number of Counties
87
Ranked in the US
#14
Total Area
86,936 mi²
Ranked in the US
#12
Minnesota has 87 counties, facilitating effective representation and service delivery to its residents, encompassing both vibrant urban centers and picturesque rural landscapes.
Mississippi
Total Number of Counties
82
Ranked in the US
#16
Total Area
48,432 mi²
Ranked in the US
#32
Mississippi has 82 counties, ensuring comprehensive local governance and community engagement across this southern state's diverse cultural and economic regions.
Missouri
Total Number of Counties
115
Ranked in the US
#5
Total Area
69,707 mi²
Ranked in the US
#21
With 115 counties, Missouri is the fifth state on the list of states with the most counties. Its counties span an expansive area of 69,707 square miles, contributing to efficient local governance and community representation. The large number of counties ensures that the diverse needs of Missouri's residents are met effectively.
Montana
Total Number of Counties
56
Ranked in the US
#28
Total Area
147,040 mi²
Ranked in the US
#4
Montana has 56 counties, providing a framework for localized governance and representation in this vast state known for its stunning national parks, rugged mountains, and expansive plains.
Nebraska
Total Number of Counties
93
Ranked in the US
#11
Total Area
77,348 mi²
Ranked in the US
#16
Nebraska has 93 counties, supporting localized governance and public service delivery to its residents, reflecting the state's agricultural heritage and diverse communities.
Nevada
Total Number of Counties
17
Ranked in the US
#41
Total Area
110,572 mi²
Ranked in the US
#7
Nevada has 17 counties, offering a decentralized administrative structure that caters to the unique needs of its residents, including the famous Las Vegas metropolitan area.
New Hampshire
Total Number of Counties
10
Ranked in the US
#46
Total Area
9,349 mi²
Ranked in the US
#46
New Hampshire has 10 counties, reflecting its small size and localized governance approach within this New England state known for its charming towns and natural beauty.
New Jersey
Total Number of Counties
21
Ranked in the US
#40
Total Area
8,723 mi²
Ranked in the US
#47
New Jersey has 21 counties, ensuring effective local representation and services across this densely populated state, known for its proximity to major metropolitan areas.
New Mexico
Total Number of Counties
33
Ranked in the US
#35
Total Area
121,590 mi²
Ranked in the US
#5
New Mexico has 33 counties, supporting localized governance and service delivery across its stunning landscapes, rich Native American heritage, and vibrant arts and culture scene.
New York
Total Number of Counties
62
Ranked in the US
#26
Total Area
54,555 mi²
Ranked in the US
#27
New York has 62 counties, providing a comprehensive local governance structure across this diverse state, which encompasses bustling urban areas and picturesque rural landscapes.
North Carolina
Total Number of Counties
100
Ranked in the US
#8
Total Area
53,819 mi²
Ranked in the US
#28
North Carolina has 100 counties, fostering effective representation and service delivery throughout this southeastern state, encompassing both dynamic cities and scenic coastal and mountain regions.
North Dakota
Total Number of Counties
53
Ranked in the US
#30
Total Area
70,698 mi²
Ranked in the US
#19
North Dakota has 53 counties, ensuring efficient administration and service delivery across its vast prairies, agricultural lands, and small communities.
Ohio
Total Number of Counties
88
Ranked in the US
#13
Total Area
44,826 mi²
Ranked in the US
#34
Ohio has 88 counties, providing a framework for localized governance and tailored services in this Midwestern state, known for its industrial heritage and diverse urban and rural areas.
Oklahoma
Total Number of Counties
77
Ranked in the US
#17
Total Area
69,899 mi²
Ranked in the US
#20
Oklahoma has 77 counties, supporting localized administration and decision-making across this state's rich Native American heritage, scenic landscapes, and dynamic cities.
Oregon
Total Number of Counties
36
Ranked in the US
#34
Total Area
98,379 mi²
Ranked in the US
#9
Oregon has 36 counties, allowing for effective governance and tailored services throughout this diverse state, encompassing everything from vibrant cities to picturesque coastal and mountainous regions.
Pennsylvania
Total Number of Counties
67
Ranked in the US
#22
Total Area
46,054 mi²
Ranked in the US
#33
Pennsylvania has 67 counties, ensuring comprehensive local representation and administration across this historically significant state, known for its industrial heritage and diverse landscapes.
Rhode Island
Total Number of Counties
5
Ranked in the US
#49
Total Area
1,545 mi²
Ranked in the US
#50
Rhode Island has 5 counties, reflecting its small size and centralized governance structure within this northeastern state known for its coastal beauty and historic landmarks.
South Carolina
Total Number of Counties
46
Ranked in the US
#31
Total Area
32,020 mi²
Ranked in the US
#40
South Carolina has 46 counties, providing a decentralized administrative system that supports effective local governance and service delivery across its charming coastal areas and bustling cities.
South Dakota
Total Number of Counties
66
Ranked in the US
#23
Total Area
77,116 mi²
Ranked in the US
#17
South Dakota has 66 counties, facilitating localized governance and public service delivery across this sparsely populated state's sweeping plains, iconic landmarks, and Native American reservations.
Tennessee
Total Number of Counties
95
Ranked in the US
#10
Total Area
42,144 mi²
Ranked in the US
#36
Tennessee has 95 counties, offering a comprehensive framework for local governance and community engagement throughout this southern state's diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
Texas
Total Number of Counties
254
Ranked in the US
#1
Total Area
268,596 mi²
Ranked in the US
#2
At the forefront the ranking for states with the most counties is the Lone Star State, Texas, with a staggering 254 counties. Texas' massive size contributes to its extensive county system, covering a total area of 268,596 square miles. This abundant division allows for localized governance, ensuring efficient administration across the state.
Utah
Total Number of Counties
29
Ranked in the US
#37
Total Area
84,897 mi²
Ranked in the US
#13
Utah has 29 counties, providing a decentralized governance structure that caters to the needs of its residents, including the iconic landscapes of its national parks and vibrant urban centers.
Vermont
Total Number of Counties
14
Ranked in the US
#45
Total Area
9,616 mi²
Ranked in the US
#45
Vermont has 14 counties, reflecting its small size and a more centralized approach to governance within this northeastern state known for its charming towns and picturesque rural landscapes.
Virginia
Total Number of Counties
133
Ranked in the US
#3
Total Area
42,775 mi²
Ranked in the US
#35
Virginia boasts 133 counties, securing the third position on the list of states with the most counties. Spanning an area of 42,775 square miles, the state's counties encompass a diverse range of landscapes and communities. The extensive county system in Virginia supports effective regional administration and public services.
Washington
Total Number of Counties
39
Ranked in the US
#33
Total Area
71,298 mi²
Ranked in the US
#18
Washington has 39 counties, enabling effective local governance and service delivery across its diverse landscapes, from the bustling Seattle metropolitan area to the breathtaking Pacific Northwest.
West Virginia
Total Number of Counties
55
Ranked in the US
#29
Total Area
24,230 mi²
Ranked in the US
#41
West Virginia has 55 counties, fostering decentralized administration and tailored services across its Appalachian mountains, charming small towns, and rich cultural heritage.
Wisconsin
Total Number of Counties
72
Ranked in the US
#19
Total Area
65,496 mi²
Ranked in the US
#23
Wisconsin has 72 counties, providing a comprehensive framework for local governance and representation throughout this Midwestern state's vibrant cities, picturesque countryside, and Great Lakes coastline.
Wyoming
Total Number of Counties
23
Ranked in the US
#39
Total Area
97,813 mi²
Ranked in the US
#10
Wyoming has 23 counties, ensuring localized governance and efficient service delivery across its expansive landscapes, including iconic national parks, vast wilderness areas, and a small population.
FAQs
What state has the most counties ?
Texas has the most counties among all U.S. states, with a total of 254 counties.
How many counties are in Arizona ?
Arizona has 15 counties.
How many counties are in New York ?
New York has 62 counties.
What is the largest county in the United States ?
The largest county in the United States is San Bernardino County, located in the state of California.
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