How Big is Puerto Rico Compared to a US State: A Detailed Comparison

By Steve Dez •  Updated: 07/28/23 •  10 min read

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How big is Puerto Rico compared to a US state?

Geographically, Puerto Rico is approximately 3,515 square miles (9,104 km²), making it larger than Delaware and Rhode Island, but smaller than Connecticut.

Comparing Populations, the island boasts a population surpassing many U.S states with about 3.2 million residents.

When it comes to population density, however, Puerto Rico far outstrips most U.S states due its compact size coupled with its large population.

 

In political terms, as a U.S territory rather than a state, Puerto Rico experiences certain rights and limitations unique to its position.

Puerto Rican residents, for instance, cannot vote in presidential elections unless they reside in the mainland U.S., contrasting sharply with citizens of U.S states.

These differences underscore the ongoing debate surrounding Puerto Rico’s political status within the United States framework.

Indeed understanding the differences between being a U.S state and a U.S territory is crucial when contemplating Puerto Rico’s position within the greater United States.


how big is puerto rico compared to a us state
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How Big is Puerto Rico Compared to a US State: A Detailed Comparison

Geographical Size of Puerto Rico

An island nestled in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico lies southeast of Miami, Florida. When considering how big is Puerto Rico compared to a US state, it’s interesting to note that this U.S territory spans approximately 9,104 square kilometers (3,515 square miles).

This makes it considerable in size when compared to some U.S states; it’s larger than Delaware and Rhode Island combined and roughly equal in dimension to Connecticut. However, when we compare the geographical size of Puerto Rico compared to US states , it becomes clear that it significantly trails behind most mainland areas.

The United States has over 107,913% more land area than Puerto Rico. But despite its smaller geographical footprint, this territory has fostered a diverse ecosystem ranging from mountains and waterfalls to beautiful sandy beaches.

Comparison of Puerto Rico’s Size to Various US States

In order to give an accurate depiction of the size of Puerto Rico vs US states, we’ll compare it with both small and large states. Starting with Rhode Island—the smallest U.S state—it measures around 1,034 square miles while Delaware covers an area about twice as large at about 2,489 square miles.

Yet both combined still fall short compared to Puerto Rico’s expansive geography.

Moving onto larger territories like Texas or California can make the dimensions of Puerto Rico versus US states seem rather minuscule. For instance, Texas is nearly 266 times bigger! It’s important however not just look at raw numbers but consider population density as well which can provide another perspective.

A comparison between Alaska—the largest state—and Puerto Rico exemplifies this point.

Despite Alaska being over 163 times larger than the island territory in terms of land area, its population pales in comparison.

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Population of Puerto Rico Compared To US States

The population represents another parameter when examining how big is puerto rico compared to a us state. As per recent estimates,Puerto Rican population stands at around 3.4 million people . This number surpasses that found in many less populated U.S states like Nevada and Kansas.

To further delve into the matter from a demographic standpoint let’s take Wyoming for example — The least populated U.S state with just above half a million inhabitants despite being several times larger than this Caribbean island in landmass.

In contrast,Puerto Ricans outnumber people residing in about 21 different American states.

Therefore,a population comparison between puerto rico and us states , adds another layer making these comparisons richer and more meaningful.

Analyzing the Population Density in Puerto Rica

The notion that size isn’t everything holds profoundly true when you analyzePuerto Rican population density compared with other U.S territories.

With over three million residents living within its borders,Puerto Rican land hosts nearly one thousand individuals per square mile!

In stark contrast some spacious mainland regions house less than ten persons per every square mile hence illustrating the surprising fact that although smaller Puerto Rican populace overshadows certain continental areas by far!

To better appreciate these figures one could imagine packing all Nevadans within New York City limits! This provides an illuminating visualization on how densely peopled our vibrant island truly is!

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Political Rights and Limitations for Puerto Rio as a US Territory

This inquiry wouldn’t be complete without touching on political rights enjoyed by our fellow Americans living south-east off Floridian shore.

Their citizenship status entails having most legal protections guaranteed by constitution same as their counterparts across rest fifty fractions(do they have same voting powers though? ) . Well answer isn’t quite straightforward.

This means while residents savour similar privileges including federal protection labour laws government services etc.,voting rights differ significantly especially regarding electing president or influencing Congress decisions which are basically non-existent for them due their territorial status.

Bearing peculiar political framework mind looking again“how big is puerto rico compared?

“to us might feel different light even if numbers remain same because impact these discrepancies far reaching how commonwealth fares today .

how big is puerto rico compared to a us state

My Personal Take about How Big Is Puerto Rico Compared To A US State

Hi there, it’s your friendly neighborhood travel expert Steve.

Puerto Rico, a magical island that is nothing less than a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

If you’ve ever wondered “How big is Puerto Rico compared to a US state?”, then I have just the right information for you!

To give you some perspective, think of Connecticut; small in size but bursting with culture and vibrance. Imagine that thrill, but amplified with Puerto Rico’s unique charm and charisma!

Now, let me list out some enchanting facts about this lovely place.

Okay enough facts for now!

But surely, armed with this knowledge now should spur any wanderlust-stricken soul to embark on their lifelong dream journey down south – after all we breathe adventure into our lives just once!

So are you packed yet?

Personally speaking, shaking off sand off my flip flops beats scraping off snow any day!

Bringing it back around – yes indeed ‘how big is Puerto Rico compared to a US state’?

It’s substantially smaller size-wise but absolutely ginormous when measured in terms of fun and memories!


 
 
 
 
 
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Frequently Asked Questions about How Big Is Puerto Rico Compared To A US State

Before you go…

Traveling to Puerto Rico is a unique experience that combines the familiarity of the US with the exotic charm of a Caribbean island.

If you’ve ever wondered how big this tropical paradise is compared to your home state, check out this helpful link: puerto rico compared to us state size. You might be surprised at the answer! Another common question that travelers often have is, is Puerto Rico on the equator?.

This link will clear up any misconceptions and give you an idea of what kind of weather to expect during your visit.

Here are some more tips for your trip:

And if you’re curious about how Puerto Rico fits into the broader context of all US territories, these links may help: Puerto Rico compared to US, and Puerto Rico compared to US States .

Enjoy your trip!

Steve Dez

Also known as Richport, is a Puerto Rican creator and writer. He grew up in the island and always had a passion for writing, he wrote his first play at the age of 12 and has been creating content ever since. He's now a well-known blogger and creative who writes posts, songs and poetry that showcase his love for his roots, blending traditional stories with modern themes always with some adobo and boricua flavors in the mix.