States with the Most Uninhabited or Undeveloped Land in the United States

The United States boasts a wide array of ecosystems and geographic regions, ranging from bustling urban centers to vast expanses of uninhabited or undeveloped land. Some states stand out in particular for their extensive areas of wilderness and sparse populations. This article explores the states with the most uninhabited or undeveloped land, focusing on factors that contribute to this phenomenon.

The Uninhabited Wilds of Wyoming

Wyoming stands out as a prime example of the states with significant uninhabited and undeveloped land. With a population density of just 6 people per square mile, Wyoming is one of the least densely populated states in the continental United States. The entire state, with a population of around 590,000, is significantly smaller than some major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, which has a much larger urban population. Cheyenne, the state capital, has a population of merely 70,000, less than that of many football stadiums.

The state is not only sparsely populated but also home to extensive areas of undeveloped land. Wyoming is often referred to as the "windiest state" in the U.S., with an average annual wind speed of 12.9 miles per hour (mph). In the winter, the wind can reach speeds of 30 to 40 mph, with gusts surpassing 50 to 60 mph. This harsh environment makes large areas of the state almost uninhabited.

The Vast Wilderness of Nevada

Nevada is another state with a substantial amount of uninhabited or undeveloped land. With a population of about 3 million as of 2023, the majority of this population is concentrated in urban centers like Las Vegas and Reno. The rest of the state is largely untouched by human development, featuring vast deserts, mountains, and other rugged terrain.

Nevada has the second-largest land area in the contiguous United States, yet it ranks as the seventh least densely populated state. This combination of large land area and low population density makes Nevada a prime candidate for uninhabited and undeveloped land. Areas like the Great Basin National Park and the Nye County unincorporated area exemplify the vast expanses of undeveloped wilderness.

The Untapped Vastness of Alaska

Without a doubt, Alaska is the state with the most uninhabited or undeveloped land in the United States. Despite its vast expanse of more than 663,268 square miles, Alaska has only 1.3 people per square mile. This makes it the least densely populated state in the country, with vast areas of the state remaining largely uninhabited. Cities and towns are typically clustered along coastal areas or river systems, while the interior of the state is predominantly wilderness.

Alaska is a treasure trove for natural resources and wildlife, with national parks like Denali, Kenai Fjords, and Wrangell-St. Elias offering breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems. The state's remote and rugged terrain, including mountains, glaciers, and taiga forests, contribute to the vast areas of undeveloped land. Alaska's climate also plays a significant role, with harsh winters and short growing seasons unfavoring large-scale human habitation in many regions.

Other Likely Candidates

While Alaska, Wyoming, and Nevada stand out for their extensive uninhabited or undeveloped land, states like Arizona, New Mexico, and Montana also present similar characteristics. These states have large land areas and relatively lower population densities, which contribute to their rural and wild landscapes.

Arizona, for example, with its expansive deserts and remote Navajo Nation, offers ample undeveloped or uninhabited land. New Mexico, bordering the vast Chihuahuan Desert to the west and the Rio Grande River, has areas where traditional farming and ranching co-exist with great expanses of wild land. Montana, with its rugged mountain ranges and large national forests, is another state that preserves significant tracts of undeveloped land.

Conclusion

The United States is a nation of diverse landscapes and geographical features, with a handful of states standing out for their extensive areas of uninhabited or undeveloped land. Factors such as climate, population density, and the presence of natural resources all contribute to the preservation of these vast wilderness areas. Whether it's the expansive deserts of Nevada, the rugged mountains of Alaska, or the bourbon fields of rural Montana, these lands remain a testament to the nation's natural beauty and untapped potential.