The United States is divided into four main regions – the Northeast, Midwest, South, and West. These regional divisions have been used by the US Census Bureau since 1950 to classify and analyze population data. In addition to these four regions, there are also nine subregions that further break down the country’s geographical areas.
The nine subregions are more specific divisions within the larger regions and provide a more nuanced understanding of the demographic and cultural variations across the United States. These subregions are based on similarities in geography, climate, history, and cultural characteristics.
1. Northeast:
– New England: Consisting of the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.
– Mid-Atlantic: Including the states of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
2. Midwest:
– East North Central: Comprising the states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
– West North Central: Comprising the states of Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas.
3. South:
– South Atlantic: Consisting of the states of Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
– East South Central: Including the states of Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama.
– West South Central: Comprising the states of Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas.
4. West:
– Mountain: Consisting of the states of Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico.
– Pacific: Including the states of Washington, Oregon, California, Alaska, and Hawaii.
These subregions take into account the diverse landscapes, climate variations, cultural heritage, and historical developments within each region. They allow for more detailed analysis and understanding of population distribution, economic trends, and societal characteristics.
For example, growing up in the Midwest, I have experienced firsthand the distinct cultural differences between the East North Central and West North Central subregions. The East North Central states, such as Ohio and Michigan, have a strong industrial history, while the West North Central states, like Iowa and Kansas, are known for their agricultural landscapes. These differences in industries and landscapes contribute to variations in population density, economic opportunities, and cultural practices.
The United States is divided into four main regions and nine subregions. These divisions provide a framework for analyzing and understanding the country’s population data, cultural differences, and regional characteristics. Each subregion has its own unique features, contributing to the rich diversity found within the United States.