Cattle Inventory vs Human Population By State
When it comes to cattle in the United States, some states have more of our bovine friends than they do people.
Ranking Of States With The Most Cattle vs People
When it comes to cattle in the United States, some states have more of our bovine friends than they do people. In fact, nine states boast a higher cattle population than human population. This unique statistic sheds light on the significance of the cattle industry in certain regions and how it shapes the culture, economy, and landscape of these states.
1. South Dakota: Where Cattle Reign Supreme
South Dakota stands out as the state with the highest ratio of cattle to people. With a population of 887,770, it has a whopping 3,550,000 cattle, making the ratio an astonishing 4.00 cattle per person. This means there are four times as many cattle in South Dakota as there are people! It's no surprise that agriculture, particularly cattle ranching, plays a pivotal role in the state's economy.
2. Nebraska: A Close Second
Nebraska takes the second spot on the list, with a population of 1,961,504 and a cattle count of 6,500,000, resulting in a ratio of 3.31 cattle per person. The cattle industry is a major driver of Nebraska's economy, contributing significantly to both employment and exports.
3. North Dakota: Embracing Cattle Farming
North Dakota, with a population of 779,702 and 1,750,000 cattle, boasts a ratio of 2.24 cattle per person. Agriculture, including cattle farming, is a vital part of the state's economy, and these numbers reflect its prominence.
4. Wyoming: Where the Cattle Roam
With a relatively small population of 576,851 and 1,240,000 cattle, Wyoming has a ratio of 2.15 cattle per person. The vast, open landscapes of Wyoming provide ample space for cattle ranching, making it an important industry for the state.
5. Kansas: The Beef State
Kansas, known as the "Sunflower State," has a population of 2,937,880 and 6,250,000 cattle, resulting in a ratio of 2.13 cattle per person. Beef production is a cornerstone of Kansas' agricultural sector, and it ranks high in the nation's beef production.
6. Montana: Big Sky, Big Cattle
Montana, famous for its stunning landscapes and wide-open spaces, has a population of 1,085,004 and 2,160,000 cattle. This equates to a ratio of 1.99 cattle per person, underscoring the state's deep-rooted cattle ranching heritage.
7. Idaho: A Growing Industry
Idaho has a population of 1,839,106 and 2,500,000 cattle, resulting in a ratio of 1.36 cattle per person. While Idaho is often associated with potatoes, its cattle industry is thriving and steadily growing.
8. Oklahoma: Balancing Cattle and Agriculture
With a population of 3,959,353 and 4,600,000 cattle, Oklahoma maintains a ratio of 1.16 cattle per person. Cattle farming coexists alongside other agricultural pursuits, contributing significantly to the state's overall agricultural production.
9. Iowa: A Strong Agricultural Presence
Iowa, known for its fertile farmlands, has a population of 3,190,369 and 3,650,000 cattle, resulting in a ratio of 1.14 cattle per person. While crops like corn and soybeans are staples, cattle farming is a crucial component of Iowa's agricultural diversity.
States with the Lowest Ratios
On the other end of the spectrum, states like New Jersey, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Delaware have the lowest ratios of cattle to people in the United States. These states have highly urbanized populations and limited space for large-scale cattle farming, which explains their low cattle-to-person ratios.
Conclusion
The ranking of states with the most cattle versus people showcases the diverse agricultural landscape of the United States. While some states, like South Dakota and Nebraska, are cattle country, others are more focused on urban and suburban life. Nevertheless, the cattle industry remains a fundamental part of the nation's agricultural heritage and economy, impacting regions in distinct ways.
