U.S. state capitals
U.S.
U.S. state capitals are the official seats of government for the 50 states of the United States. Each capital is where state government functions are centred, although the largest city in a state is not always its capital. Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States, but it is not a state capital.
Definition and role
State capitals are the cities that host a state's central government institutions, including the governor's office and the legislature. They are administrative and political centres rather than necessarily the economic or most populous city.
Number of capitals
The United States has 50 state capitals, corresponding to its 50 states. Washington, D.C. is the national capital, but it is not included among state capitals.
Population and size differences
State capitals vary widely in population and area. Phoenix is the most populous capital, while Montpelier is the smallest by population; several capitals, such as New York's Albany or California's Sacramento, are not the state's largest city.
Historical changes
Many states have moved their capitals at least once over time. The date listed for a capital often indicates when it began serving as the state's current sole capital.
Key facts
- There are 50 U.S. state capitals, one for each state.
- State capitals serve as the main centres of state government.
- The term 'capitol' refers to the building where legislative business is conducted, not the city itself.
- Some state capitals are also the largest city in their state, but many are not.
- Most states have changed their capital city at least once.
Canadian readers may encounter U.S. state capitals in geography, civics, and cross-border travel or news coverage, especially when comparing state and provincial capitals.
Frequently asked questions
How many U.S. state capitals are there?
Is Washington, D.C. a state capital?
What is the difference between a capital and a capitol?
Which U.S. state capital has the largest population?
Which U.S. state capital has the smallest population?
Do all state capitals equal the largest city in their state?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_capitals_in_the_United_StatesSupports: Lists all 50 U.S. state capitals and provides population and historical data.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/list-of-state-capitals-in-the-United-States-2119210Supports: Confirms the 50 state capitals and provides recent population estimates for many capital cities.
- Ballotpedia — https://ballotpedia.org/List_of_capitals_in_the_United_StatesSupports: Explains that state capitals are the seats of state government and distinguishes 'capital' from 'capitol'.
- Vedantu — https://www.vedantu.com/geography/us-state-capitals-listSupports: States that there are 50 state capitals and that Washington, D.C. is not a state capital.
- Simple English Wikipedia — https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_U.S._state_capitalsSupports: Notes that most states have changed capital cities at least once and identifies the smallest and largest capital cities by population.