How Big is Texas: Lone Star State’s Mammoth Proportions
Howdy readers! You know Texas for its iconic cowboys, mouthwatering barbecue, and Lone Star flag, but do you have a handle on just how big the Lone Star State is? Buckle up and get ready for a deep dive into the imposing dimensions of Texas!
Texas: A Land of Sprawling Grandeur
Texas is the second-largest state in the United States, spanning a whopping 268,596 square miles (696,241 square kilometers). Just to put that into perspective, Texas is bigger than France, Germany, and Italy combined! This vast expanse is home to everything from bustling cities to sprawling ranches and deserts, making it one of the most geographically diverse states in the nation.
How Texas Compares to the United States and World
Compared to the United States:
- Texas is almost three times the size of California, the third-largest state.
- It’s larger than 17 of the 50 U.S. states combined.
- Texas accounts for about 7% of the total area of the United States.
Compared to the World:
- Texas is comparable in size to countries like Ukraine, Argentina, and Kazakhstan.
- It’s larger than Japan, the United Kingdom, and Mexico combined.
- Texas ranks among the top 10 largest subdivisions of countries globally.
Texas by the Numbers
Land Area: 268,596 square miles (696,241 square kilometers)
Length: 825 miles (1,328 kilometers) from east to west
Width: 790 miles (1,271 kilometers) from north to south
Counties: 254
Largest City: Houston (population: 2.3 million)
Smallest City: Ladonia (population: 329)
Highest Point: Guadalupe Peak (8,751 feet)
Lowest Point: Sabine Lake (sea level)
Texas: Land of Extremes
Texas is famous for its contrasting landscapes, from the towering mountains of the Guadalupe Mountains National Park to the windswept sands of the Big Bend region.
Mountainous West Texas: Home to the state’s highest peaks, including Guadalupe Peak. This rugged region offers breathtaking views and abundant hiking trails.
Flat Central Texas: The heartland of Texas, characterized by rolling hills and fertile plains. It’s a prime agricultural region, producing a variety of crops and livestock.
Coastal South Texas: Boasts pristine beaches along the Gulf of Mexico and a subtropical climate. This region is known for its fishing, birdwatching, and coastal culture.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it, readers! Texas is a state of epic proportions, with a vast landscape that rivals entire countries. From its towering mountains to its flat plains and coastal beaches, Texas truly lives up to its nickname as the Lone Star State. If you’re planning a road trip through Texas, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore this sprawling land. And while you’re at it, check out our other articles on Texas history, culture, and attractions!
FAQ about Texas’ Size
Q: How big is Texas?
A: Texas is the second largest state in the contiguous United States, covering an area of approximately 268,596 square miles (695,662 square kilometers).
Q: How does Texas compare in size to other U.S. states?
A: Texas is about 2.5 times larger than California, the third largest state. It is also about 10 times larger than New York, the fourth largest state.
Q: How does Texas compare in size to other countries?
A: Texas is slightly smaller than the country of France and about the same size as Iraq.
Q: How long does it take to drive across Texas?
A: Driving across Texas from east to west takes approximately 14 hours, while driving from north to south takes about 10 hours.
Q: What is the largest city in Texas?
A: Houston is the largest city in Texas, with a population of over 2.3 million people.
Q: What is the smallest county in Texas?
A: Rockwall County is the smallest county in Texas, covering an area of just 148 square miles (383 square kilometers).
Q: What is the largest county in Texas?
A: Brewster County is the largest county in Texas, covering an area of over 6,184 square miles (16,017 square kilometers).
Q: How many people live in Texas?
A: As of 2023, Texas has a population of approximately 29.5 million people.
Q: How many counties are there in Texas?
A: There are 254 counties in Texas.
Q: What is the motto of Texas?
A: The motto of Texas is "Friendship."
