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They’re Gorgeous, Vast, BUT Empty: Why People are NOT Flocking to These 9 States

Many regions of the United States are famous for their wide-open spaces, rugged landscapes, and untouched beauty. Yet, despite their allure, these vast areas remain largely uninhabited. Whether it’s due to isolation, extreme weather, or lack of job opportunities, these states don’t attract the same population as bustling metropolises. Here are nine of America’s most beautiful but empty states – and why few people call them home.

1. Wyoming: The Wide-Open Cowboy Country

1. Wyoming The Wide Open Cowboy Country
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Wyoming is the least populated state in America, with just around 581,000 residents spread over its vast plains, mountain ranges, and valleys. While the sweeping landscapes and rugged beauty are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, Wyoming’s lack of large cities and employment opportunities make it less attractive for many. The state’s economy heavily relies on government jobs, and nearly a quarter of its workforce is employed by state or federal agencies. With brutally cold winters, long distances between amenities, and few job options outside of government work, Wyoming remains sparsely populated.

2. Montana: Big Sky Country, But Not Big on Population

2. Montana Big Sky Country, But Not Big on Population
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Montana’s scenic mountains, vast farmlands, and iconic Glacier National Park are mesmerizing, but that hasn’t translated into a large population. Known as “Big Sky Country,” Montana spans over 147,000 square miles but is home to just about 1.1 million people. Most towns are remote, and some lack basic services like grocery stores or medical facilities within reasonable distances. Winters in Montana can be harsh, with temperatures plummeting to record lows, making year-round living a challenge.

3. Alaska: The Last Frontier for a Reason

3. Alaska The Last Frontier for a Reason
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Alaska is a state of extremes. While it’s the largest U.S. state by land area, most of it remains uninhabited. Alaska’s wilderness includes glaciers, tundras, and mountain ranges that are beautiful but also isolating. Some areas are only accessible by plane or boat, adding to the feeling of remoteness. The long, dark winters with temperatures dropping below -40°F deter many from settling here. Despite these challenges, Alaska offers incentives, like the Permanent Fund Dividend, which pays residents annually. Still, the high cost of living and lack of urban amenities keep Alaska’s population below one million.

4. North Dakota: Extreme Weather and Isolation

4. North Dakota Extreme Weather and Isolation
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North Dakota’s population struggles to grow, largely because of its climate. The state endures some of the coldest winters in the contiguous U.S., with blizzards, freezing temperatures, and intense wind chills that make life difficult. Summers can be surprisingly hot, leading to flash floods in the spring. While the state experienced a population boom due to an oil surge, it remains one of the least populated states. Many settlers bypassed North Dakota, preferring to push west toward better climates and richer resources.

5. Maine: Rugged Beauty with Rough Winters

5. Maine Rugged Beauty with Rough Winters
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Maine is a paradise for those who appreciate coastal beauty, dense forests, and serene lakes, but its climate deters many from settling here. Winters are long and snowy, especially in the northern regions, where temperatures can stay below freezing for months. Most of Maine’s population lives in the southern part of the state, near the coast, while the northern areas are largely forested and undeveloped. As the most rural state in the U.S., Maine has a median age higher than any other state, indicating that young people tend to leave, often returning only to retire.

6. South Dakota: Land of Few Cities and Open Prairie

6. South Dakota Land of Few Cities and Open Prairie
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South Dakota is home to the iconic Mount Rushmore and the scenic Badlands, but the state’s population remains sparse. The open prairies and rolling hills give way to few large cities, and economic opportunities are limited, especially for those outside of agriculture or tourism. Winters here can be intense, and the state’s rural character means that amenities and services are often hours away by car. While South Dakota has its charms, especially for those seeking a quiet, rural life, the isolation and cold keep population growth low.

7. Vermont: New England’s Rural Escape

7. Vermont New England’s Rural Escape
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Vermont is known for its charming towns, vibrant fall foliage, and outdoor activities. However, it is also one of the most rural states in the nation. Mountains and forests cover most of the state, making it challenging for developers to build large urban areas. Although Vermont is an attractive place to live for those seeking a quiet life and connection with nature, its small population centers and limited job market don’t appeal to everyone. Winters are cold and long, which further contributes to the slow growth of its population.

8. Rhode Island: Small, Crowded, and Expensive

8. Rhode Island Small, Crowded, and Expensive
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Rhode Island is unique on this list because it’s not exactly “empty,” but it does have a population of only about 1.1 million people due to its tiny size. Being the smallest U.S. state, there simply isn’t room for a large population. The cost of living in Rhode Island is high, with prices similar to New York City. While densely populated, the state’s overall numbers are low due to its limited space and competition from other New England states that offer similar amenities with potentially lower living costs.

9. Delaware: The Corporate Hub Without the People

9. Delaware The Corporate Hub Without the People
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Delaware is home to over two million corporations thanks to favorable tax laws, but its human population is just over a million. Wilmington is Delaware’s largest city, yet it’s still modest compared to major metropolitan areas. Most residents live near the coast, and the rest of the state is relatively quiet, attracting mainly retirees. Delaware’s proximity to major cities like Philadelphia limits its growth, as people prefer larger hubs with more job opportunities. While Delaware’s tax policies attract businesses, they don’t create many local jobs, making the state feel like a quiet outpost.

What Draws and Repels People from These States?

What Draws and Repels People from These States
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These states all have something in common: beautiful landscapes coupled with challenging living conditions. Whether it’s the brutal cold of North Dakota, the extreme isolation of Alaska, or the lack of urban amenities in Wyoming, each state has its unique drawbacks that limit population growth. While a handful of states on this list, like Maine and Vermont, have seen an influx of retirees, younger residents tend to migrate elsewhere in search of more job opportunities and urban convenience.

The Future of These Vastly Empty States

The Future of These Vastly Empty States
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The sparse populations in these states are unlikely to change dramatically. As more people flock to urban centers for jobs, education, and social activities, the emptiest states may remain that way. However, with the rise of remote work, some of these states may see modest growth from people looking for solitude and natural beauty without sacrificing their careers.