Understanding US Geographic Regions and Divisions

For statistical purposes, the U.S. Census Bureau divides the 50 states and the District of Columbia into four regions and nine divisions. This system provides a standardized way to analyze and compare data across different parts of the country. Understanding these classifications is crucial for researchers, policymakers and anyone interested in regional trends within the United States.

The Four US Regions

The four regions, as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau, are the Northeast, Midwest, South, and West. Each region encompasses several divisions, reflecting further geographic and cultural nuances.

The Nine US Divisions

Here’s a breakdown of each of the nine divisions and the states they include:

New England

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

Middle Atlantic

Includes: New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania.

East North Central

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

West North Central

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

South Atlantic

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

East South Central

Includes: Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

West South Central

Includes: Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Mountain

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

Pacific

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

Why These Divisions Matter

These geographic divisions are used extensively in data collection and analysis by various government agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) . They allow for meaningful comparisons of demographic, economic, and health indicators across different parts of the country. For example, the CDC uses these divisions when publishing health statistics in the Health, United States report.

State Abbreviations

When referencing states, it’s important to use the correct two-letter abbreviation. Here are a few examples: Alabama (AL), Alaska (AK), Arizona (AZ), and Arkansas (AR). A complete list of state abbreviations is available from the Social Security Administration.

Historical Context: State Admission Order

The order in which states were admitted to the Union also provides historical context. Delaware was the first state, ratified on December 7, 1787, while states like Texas and California were admitted much later.

Understanding the U.S. Geographic regions and divisions is fundamental to interpreting data and understanding the diverse characteristics of the nation. This standardized system ensures consistency and comparability in statistical reporting, benefiting researchers and policymakers alike.