America’s economy tells two different stories at the same time. A handful of states post numbers that rival those of entire countries, like Sweden, when measured by total output, while others struggle to keep pace on income and growth. These gaps are not abstract, as they show up in paychecks, housing costs, job access, and long-term security. Looking at the richest states in America helps explain why opportunity feels abundant in some places and limited in others.
A single factor no longer defines wealth at the state level. Total GDP shows scale, but per capita income reveals how much residents actually earn. Technology hubs, AI-driven industries, finance centers, and advanced healthcare systems continue to push certain states ahead. At the same time, energy production, government spending, and population shifts quietly change the rankings year after year. This mix of output and income offers a clearer view of which states truly lead.
As newer economic data bring fresh clarity to state-level wealth patterns, the wealthiest states in America stand out not just for size but also for how efficiently they convert economic activity into household earnings. These patterns explain migration trends, business expansion, and wage growth across the country. In this article, you will see how the top-performing states rank, what drives their wealth, and why these positions matter.
20 Richest States In America by GDP per Capita
The table below ranks the 20 richest states in America by GDP per capita, showing where economic output is highest on a per-person basis. The sections that follow explain what drives each state’s wealth and why those positions hold.
| Rank | State | GDP per Capita (2025 est.) | Median Household Income | Key GDP Driver |
| 1 | New York | $115,600 | $87,100 | Finance/Wall Street |
| 2 | California | $108,500 | $87,500 | Tech/Entertainment |
| 3 | Massachusetts | $99,200 | $88,200 | Biotech/Education |
| 4 | Washington | $92,300 | $88,400 | Amazon/Microsoft |
| 5 | Wyoming | $92,100 | $84,900 | Energy/Minerals |
| 6 | North Dakota | $91,500 | $84,100 | Oil/Energy |
| 7 | Alaska | $88,800 | $85,200 | Oil Royalties |
| 8 | Delaware | $87,400 | $85,700 | Corporate/Chemicals |
| 9 | Maryland | $86,200 | $98,461 | Federal Jobs/Biotech |
| 10 | Connecticut | $85,100 | $90,200 | Finance/Insurance |
| 11 | New Jersey | $84,700 | $87,900 | Pharma/Logistics |
| 12 | Colorado | $82,500 | $92,000 | Tech/Outdoor |
| 13 | Virginia | $81,400 | $90,100 | Gov Contracts/Tech |
| 14 | New Hampshire | $79,800 | $89,500 | Manufacturing/No sales tax |
| 15 | Texas | $79,200 | $84,500 | Oil/Tech Migration |
| 16 | Illinois | $78,900 | $86,800 | Agribusiness/Finance |
| 17 | Utah | $78,200 | $91,800 | Silicon Slopes/Tech |
| 18 | Minnesota | $76,900 | $88,700 | Med Devices/Corporates |
| 19 | Rhode Island | $74,100 | $85,900 | Education/Healthcare |
| 20 | Hawaii | $73,200 | $86,500 | Tourism/Defense |
1. New York
Why New York Ranks So High:
- Tops the list with $115,600 GDP per capita from dense finance and trade hubs.
- Wall Street contributes nearly 20% of total output, with tech and media adding billions yearly.
- A population of roughly 19 million spreads wealth broadly while keeping per-person output high.
New York sits at the top of the list of the richest states in America because an enormous share of global financial flows flows through a small geographic core. Stock exchanges, investment banks, and trading firms in Manhattan handle trillions of dollars in daily transactions, creating sustained demand for high-paying roles across finance, law, consulting, and technology. These jobs support premium wages that ripple into real estate, services, and infrastructure, keeping economic output concentrated even with a large population.
Beyond finance, the state benefits from substantial revenue collection through transaction taxes, corporate fees, and consumer spending tied to tourism and business travel. Forecasts point to steady growth through 2026 despite broader economic cooling. Average wages in finance remain about 50% higher than national levels, while media, arts, and live events continue to draw international visitors and large-scale spending into the state economy.
2. California
Why California Holds Second Place:
- Posts $108,500 GDP per capita, driven by AI and major technology firms.
- Silicon Valley companies like Apple and Google anchor innovation spending.
- Entertainment and agriculture support a $3.8 trillion total economy.
California earns its position through unmatched scale paired with industries that generate high value per worker. Technology firms invest heavily in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and data infrastructure, producing roles that regularly cross six-figure salaries. These companies attract global talent and capital, reinforcing a cycle of research, product development, and long-term investment. Entertainment exports from film, television, and streaming add steady foreign income.
Housing costs absorb much of that income for many residents, yet top earners in technology and media remain less affected. State projections show above-average growth supported by continued private investment. Ports in Los Angeles and Long Beach move massive volumes of goods, driving trade-related revenue, while agriculture supplies a large share of the nation’s fruits, nuts, and vegetables.
3. Massachusetts
Why Massachusetts Stays Near the Top:
- Generates $99,200 GDP per capita from biotech, universities, and advanced research.
- Boston hosts leading hospitals and Harvard and MIT research centers.
- Finance provides stability during economic slowdowns.
Massachusetts secures its place among the richest states in America through specialization rather than scale. Biotech companies cluster around Cambridge and Boston, developing pharmaceuticals and medical technologies that command high global demand. Universities act as economic engines, training skilled workers and spinning off startups that feed directly into the local economy. This ecosystem keeps unemployment low and productivity high.
Personal income continues to rise, supported by strong wages in health care, engineering, and research roles. The state consistently ranks near the top for patents filed per resident, reflecting sustained innovation. Exports of medical devices and pharmaceuticals flow steadily to Europe and Asia, insulating the economy from short-term domestic fluctuations.
4. Washington
Why Washington Delivers High Output:
- Reaches $92,300 GDP per capita through software and aerospace exports.
- Microsoft and Amazon employ tens of thousands in high-wage roles.
- Ports and agriculture strengthen the trade balance.
Washington converts corporate concentration into strong per-person output. Seattle-based technology firms deliver cloud services, enterprise software, and digital platforms used worldwide. Aerospace manufacturing adds another layer of high-value exports, with aircraft produced near Everett sold to international airlines. Salaries at major employers often exceed $120,000, lifting overall income levels.
Exports rose about 7% last year despite slower job growth, helping stabilize state revenues. Sales and business taxes continue to perform well, while forecasts suggest moderate expansion as inflation eases. Tourism tied to national parks, outdoor recreation, and cruise traffic adds dependable seasonal income to the broader economy.
5. Wyoming
Why Wyoming Punches Above Its Weight:
- Records $92,100 GDP per capita from energy production in a low-population state.
- Coal, oil, and mineral extraction account for roughly 30% of output.
- Yellowstone tourism provides seasonal revenue boosts.
Wyoming rounds out the top five richest states in America, generating substantial output with only about 580,000 residents. Energy extraction dominates the economy, with coal, oil, and natural gas shipped nationwide. Recent rebounds in energy prices lifted production levels, pushing quarterly GDP growth to around 5.3%, well above national averages.
Employment remains concentrated in cities such as Casper and Cheyenne, while royalty payments fund public services, including education. Broader national growth supports steady demand for Wyoming fuels. Tourism adds another layer of income, drawing millions of visitors each year to national parks and other outdoor destinations.
6. North Dakota
Why North Dakota Delivers High Output:
- Ranks sixth with $91,500 GDP per capita, driven by energy production.
- Oil extraction from the Bakken formation fuels most growth.
- Agriculture adds steady value through wheat and livestock.
North Dakota generates unusually high output for its size due to oil reserves buried beneath its plains. The Bakken shale boom transformed the state over the past decade, drawing drilling companies, pipeline operators, and skilled labor from across the Midwest. Energy jobs command premium pay, which pushed income levels up even as the population surged during peak expansion years. Despite that influx, output per person stayed elevated, keeping North Dakota firmly listed among the richest states in America by GDP per capita.
Outside oil, farming remains a reliable pillar. Durum wheat grown here feeds pasta producers around the world, while livestock operations add export value. Low tax rates keep operating costs manageable for businesses. Royalty income fills state coffers, funding roads, schools, and infrastructure without heavy borrowing. Extreme winters slow activity at times, yet steady energy demand keeps revenue stable.
7. Alaska
Why Alaska Maintains Strong Per-Capita Wealth:
- Produces $88,800 GDP per capita from oil royalties and fishing.
- Prudhoe Bay fields supply roughly 20% of U.S. crude output.
- Federal land ownership boosts defense and military spending.
Alaska’s economy runs on resources spread across a massive landscape with very few residents. Oil from the North Slope flows south through the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, generating billions in tax and royalty income. A portion of that revenue feeds the Permanent Fund, which pays annual dividends to every resident, directly circulating oil wealth into household budgets.
Commercial fishing adds another major revenue stream, with salmon and crab exports valued in the hundreds of millions. Tourism surges during the summer months as visitors arrive for glaciers and wildlife. Military bases and federal operations provide stable payrolls. High heating and food costs offset some gains, but government payments help smooth income swings year after year.
8. Delaware
Why Delaware Stays Economically Efficient:
- Records $87,400 GDP per capita driven by corporate registrations.
- Over 60% of Fortune 500 companies are incorporated here.
- Chemicals and credit card banking support steady output.
Delaware functions as a legal and corporate hub rather than a production center. Its business-friendly courts and predictable regulations attract companies from across the country. Franchise taxes paid by these firms generate significant state revenue with minimal strain on infrastructure. Financial institutions process massive transaction volumes, supporting high-value administrative and legal jobs.
Chemical manufacturing, led historically by DuPont, continues to supply global markets. The absence of a sales tax draws retail traffic from neighboring states, boosting local commerce. Small population size keeps per-capita figures elevated. Job growth remains measured, but compensation skews toward high-end professional roles, helping the state maintain fiscal surpluses, a pattern reflected across the richest states in America.
9. Maryland
Why Maryland Benefits From Federal Proximity:
- Ranks ninth with $86,200 GDP per capita near the nation’s capital.
- Bethesda’s biotech corridor rivals major research hubs.
- Ports and seafood add regional economic value.
Maryland’s economy leans heavily on its closeness to Washington. Federal agencies, defense contractors, and intelligence operations employ engineers and analysts at premium salaries. Organizations tied to national security and research anchor long-term spending. Johns Hopkins and other universities convert medical research into commercial ventures, feeding biotech growth.
Baltimore’s port investments support trade and logistics, while coastal industries sustain local economies through fishing and shipping. Median household incomes remain high due to stable government pay. Congestion challenges persist, but rail links reduce commuter pressure. The mix of public funding and private innovation effectively buffers downturns.
10. Connecticut
Why Connecticut Holds Its Position:
- Posts $85,100 GDP per capita from finance and advanced manufacturing.
- Stamford hosts billion-dollar hedge funds and investment firms.
- Defense contracts sustain submarine production in Groton.
Connecticut blends legacy wealth with modern financial power, placing it firmly within the richest states in America. Investment firms clustered near New York City manage vast portfolios, paying high bonuses that lift income averages. Aerospace manufacturing adds export strength, with jet engines and defense equipment sold worldwide. Insurance firms headquartered in Hartford continue to anchor the local economy.
Academic institutions like Yale supply talent for law, biotech, and finance. Property tax revenue supports strong public schools. Urban renewal efforts in cities such as Bridgeport aim to modernize older industrial zones. Wealth remains concentrated in suburbs, keeping overall output per resident elevated despite uneven regional development.
11. New Jersey
Why New Jersey Extracts High Value From Limited Space:
- Produces $84,700 GDP per capita, driven by pharmaceuticals and port activity.
- Newark handles massive cargo volumes each year.
- Logistics hubs link New York City and Philadelphia markets.
New Jersey generates strong output by positioning itself between two of the most significant economic centers in the country. Pharmaceutical companies based in cities like New Brunswick and Princeton develop treatments that sell globally, especially in oncology and specialty medicine. At the same time, ports in Newark and Elizabeth move enormous volumes of consumer goods, feeding supply chains that stretch across the East Coast.
Warehousing and distribution facilities line highways and rail corridors, keeping freight moving around the clock. Property near major bridges and tunnels commands premium rents solely because of its proximity. Agriculture still plays a role, with blueberry farms supplying a large share of national demand. Tax revenue from commerce supports public schools and transit systems, while daily commuters fill high-paying jobs across the region.
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12. Colorado
Why Colorado Maintains Strong Per-Person Output:
- Posts $82,500 GDP per capita supported by Denver’s growing tech sector.
- Aerospace firms launch satellites and develop systems near Boulder.
- Ski resorts and outdoor tourism generate steady seasonal income.
Colorado balances natural appeal with modern industry. Software companies in Denver hire engineers for cybersecurity, defense, and enterprise systems. Aerospace firms cluster along the Front Range, supplying satellites and components used worldwide. Federal research labs in Golden and Boulder provide long-term funding for renewable energy and science.
Tourism fills hotels year-round, supporting service jobs statewide. Low unemployment attracts new residents, pushing housing demand and construction. Suburban growth around Aurora and Centennial adds commercial space. Wind energy continues to expand across the eastern plains, creating another steady revenue stream with low environmental costs, keeping Colorado firmly among the richest states in America.
13. Virginia
Why Virginia Benefits From Federal Stability:
- Reaches $81,400 GDP per capita, driven by defense spending and data centers.
- Northern Virginia hosts intelligence agencies and cloud infrastructure.
- Norfolk naval base anchors ship repair and logistics.
Virginia’s economy relies on long-term government demand rather than volatile cycles. Defense contractors, cybersecurity firms, and cloud service providers operate close to federal agencies, supplying secure systems and data storage. Northern Virginia has become one of the largest data center hubs in the world, handling government and commercial traffic alike.
Along the coast, shipyards in Norfolk repair and maintain vessels for the U.S. Navy, keeping skilled trades in steady demand. Agriculture remains active in western regions, with cattle and crops supporting rural incomes. Universities train engineers and developers who feed directly into local firms, while military retirees settle nearby and spend stable pension income.
14. New Hampshire
Why New Hampshire Stays Competitive Without Broad Taxes:
- Records $79,800 GDP per capita with no state sales or income tax.
- Precision manufacturing supports optics and electronics production.
- Granite quarries supply stone used nationwide.
New Hampshire attracts residents and businesses by keeping taxes low and regulations light. Manufacturing plants around Nashua and Salem produce precision components used in electronics, including camera and smartphone optics. These roles pay well and support a skilled workforce despite the state’s small size.
Tourism adds seasonal income through fall foliage travel and coastal activity. Portsmouth supports fishing fleets and marina services, blending industry with leisure. Retirees favor smaller towns because of the absence of income tax, which keeps household spending steady. With a limited population, even moderate industrial output translates into high per-capita figures.
15. Texas
Why Texas Converts Scale Into Consistent Output:
- Generates $79,200 GDP per capita across a massive energy-driven economy.
- Houston refines oil for domestic and export markets.
- Austin startups attract heavy venture funding.
Texas runs on diversity at scale, which keeps it one of the richest states in America. Oil and gas operations in the Permian Basin supply energy nationwide, while refineries near Houston process fuel for global markets. Manufacturing hubs ship electronics, machinery, and consumer goods, with companies like Dell maintaining major production lines.
The absence of a state income tax leaves more money in workers’ pockets, attracting both employees and employers. Migration continues to swell metro areas such as Dallas and Austin, where technology firms and startups compete for talent. Ports operate around the clock, while cultural industries from music to food tourism add resilient local spending that balances economic swings.
16. Illinois
Why Illinois Sustains Strong Output:
- Posts $78,900 GDP per capita supported by Chicago finance and large-scale farming.
- O’Hare Airport moves cargo worth billions each year.
- Corn and soy production feed global markets.
Illinois draws strength from the contrast between its financial center and its agricultural reach. Chicago anchors the economy through commodities trading, banking, and professional services, with traders moving futures contracts that influence global food and energy prices. Manufacturing clusters near Rockford and Peoria produce auto parts and machinery that feed Midwest supply chains, while rail yards route freight in every direction.
Outside the city, farmland stretches for miles, delivering record income during years of strong crop pricing. Corn and soybeans move overseas through river and rail networks. Universities in Urbana and Chicago are advancing agricultural science and logistics. Wind farms across the prairie generate steady energy revenue, providing the state with multiple income streams.
17. Utah
Why Utah Keeps Output High:
- Reaches $78,200 GDP per capita from technology growth and a young workforce.
- Provo startups build software for financial institutions nationwide.
- Salt flats supply minerals used in battery production.
Utah combines disciplined labor with fast-growing technology hubs. Software firms in Provo and Lehi develop banking systems, health platforms, and enterprise tools used nationwide. Major companies maintain large campuses along the Wasatch Front, where lower costs and skilled workers create long-term stability.
Tourism remains another pillar, with ski resorts and national parks driving year-round spending. Mineral extraction from salt flats supports industrial supply chains tied to clean energy. High birth rates keep the labor pool young, while the absence of significant urban decline prevents a drag on statewide numbers. Public finances remain steady, supported by consistent tax revenue.
18. Minnesota
Why Minnesota Delivers Consistent Value:
- Generates $76,900 GDP per capita through medical technology and corporate headquarters.
- Mayo Clinic treats patients from across the globe.
- Major retailers operate from Minneapolis-based offices.
Minnesota pairs innovation with stability. Medical device companies design pacemakers, implants, and diagnostics that ship worldwide, anchored by institutions such as the Mayo Clinic. Corporate headquarters oversee logistics, retail, and manufacturing operations that support thousands of professional jobs in the Twin Cities.
Agriculture still plays a role, with corn and livestock production holding steady due to reliable water access. Tourism tied to lakes and winter sports injects seasonal income. Cold weather drives demand for construction, heating, and infrastructure work. Low crime rates and strong schools attract families, supporting steady population growth and consumer spending.
19. Rhode Island
Why Rhode Island Maximizes Limited Space:
- Records $74,100 GDP per capita from higher education and port activity.
- Brown University research feeds startup formation.
- Coastal tourism draws high-end seasonal spending.
Rhode Island builds value through education and access to the sea. Universities in Providence convert research into commercial ventures, supporting biotech, design, and software firms. Small ports handle regional shipping, while skilled trades continue operating out of renovated mill buildings.
Tourism surges during the summer months as vacation homes fill along the coast. Newport attracts yacht traffic and affluent visitors who support hospitality and retail. Jewelry making and specialty manufacturing persist in niche markets. With short commutes and dense development, productivity stays high relative to population size.
20. Hawaii
Why Hawaii Maintains High Output Despite Costs:
- Posts $73,200 GDP per capita, mainly powered by tourism.
- Waikiki hotels are filled with constant mainland arrivals.
- Agricultural exports include pineapple and macadamia nuts.
Hawaii relies heavily on visitor spending to sustain its economy. Flights arrive full year-round, feeding hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. Historic sites such as Pearl Harbor add another draw, while cruise traffic supports port services. Military installations contribute stable rent and payroll income.
Agriculture continues on a smaller scale, shipping specialty products to mainland markets. Adventure tourism tied to volcanoes and marine life brings steady demand. High living costs reduce purchasing power, yet service work remains abundant. Consumer spending stays active, supported by tourism tips and federal employment.
Wealth Drivers Evolved
Old standbys like oil and finance still matter, but new forces are pushing states forward. Tech and AI took center stage after 2025 investments poured in. Data centers sprouted in cooler climates to handle server heat. States with strong universities saw the number of startups double.
Washington and California grabbed headlines from cloud giants and chip makers. Amazon built more warehouses while Nvidia plants hummed in the suburbs. Massachusetts biotech firms rolled out gene therapies that fetched premium prices. Energy states like Wyoming added wind farms to oil rigs to sell power around the clock.
Government spending stabilized East Coast leaders through contracts. Texas lured coders with no income tax and cheap homes. These shifts mean rankings change faster now. Places that mix sectors avoid slumps better than single-industry bets.
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Cost-of-Living Reality Check
Raw GDP numbers grab attention, but daily expenses decide the real take-home value. High-output states often carry steep housing and tax bills that offset gains. A family in New York pays double the price for apartments compared to Texas, even with financing.
Adjusted figures drop coastal leaders down the list. California falls 10 spots due to rent and gas costs. Maryland holds better thanks to federal job stability. Wyoming shines brighter with cheap land and fuel. Inland spots like Utah offer more bang for the buck. Among the richest states in America, low-cost winners deliver true wealth. Shoppers cross borders for deals, further boosting local economies.
| State | Raw GDP per Capita | COL-Adjusted Rank | Main Expense Drag |
| New York | $115,600 | 8 | Housing/Taxes |
| California | $108,500 | 15 | Rent/Utilities |
| Massachusetts | $99,200 | 6 | Property/Health |
| Washington | $92,300 | 10 | Seattle Housing |
| Wyoming | $92,100 | 2 | Minimal |
| North Dakota | $91,500 | 4 | Heating/Food |
| Alaska | $88,800 | 12 | Imports/Travel |
| Delaware | $87,400 | 7 | Fees/Insurance |
Conclusion
State wealth today comes from many paths, not one formula. Finance, technology, energy, research, and government spending all contribute to boosting output. Some states generate massive value in dense cities, while others benefit from resources or smaller populations that lift per-capita figures.
Numbers alone do not equal lived prosperity. Housing costs, taxes, and daily expenses decide how much income actually stays in a household. States that balance strong industries with manageable costs tend to deliver better outcomes than those relying on a single sector.
These rankings will not stay frozen. Job centers shift, investment follows talent, and policy choices change outcomes over time. The richest states in America stand out not just for what they produce, but for how effectively that strength translates into stability, opportunity, and lasting value.
