US State and Geographic Divisions: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding the geographic organization of the United States is crucial for various purposes, from statistical analysis to logistical planning. This article provides a detailed overview of the four regions, nine divisions, and the states that comprise each, based on the U.S. Census Bureau’s classifications as of February 25, 2026.

Geographic Regions

The U.S. Census Bureau divides the 50 states and the District of Columbia into four broad geographic regions:

• Northeast: This region encompasses the northeastern states.
• Midwest: Covering the north-central part of the country.
• South: Including the states in the southern portion of the U.S.
• West: Encompassing the western states.

Geographic Divisions and Constituent States

Each region is further subdivided into nine geographic divisions. Here’s a breakdown of each division and the states it includes:

New England

Includes: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Source

Middle Atlantic

Includes: New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Source

East North Central

Includes: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Source

West North Central

Includes: Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Source

South Atlantic

Includes: Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia. Source

East South Central

Includes: Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee. Source

West South Central

Includes: Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. Source

Mountain

Includes: Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. Source

Pacific

Includes: Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington. Source

State Abbreviations

When referring to states, it’s important to follow proper abbreviation guidelines. According to the Williams College Office of Communications style guide, do not abbreviate Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Ohio, Texas, or Utah. Source For mailing addresses, use the ZIP code abbreviation.

Recent Developments: State Travel Restrictions

As of June 22, 2017, California prohibited state-funded and state-sponsored travel to Alabama, Kentucky, South Dakota, and Texas due to discriminatory legislation enacted in those states. Source

Conclusion

The U.S. Census Bureau’s regional and divisional classifications provide a standardized framework for understanding the country’s geography. These divisions are essential for statistical reporting, demographic studies, and various governmental functions. As the nation evolves, these classifications may be updated to reflect demographic shifts and changing regional dynamics.