Western United States

Interesting Information

Just the Facts

The Western United States is a land of dramatic landscapes, from towering mountain ranges to vast deserts and rugged coastlines. For thousands of years, the region was home to Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians—each with distinct languages, cultures, and traditions. Their descendants remain a vital presence in the West today.

European exploration of the area began in the 16th century, with Spain, France, Britain, Mexico, and Russia all claiming parts of what is now the western United States. Through treaties, purchases, and wars, these lands gradually came under the jurisdiction of the United States by the late 19th century.

The states in this region are Alaska, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

Population & Language

As with most of the United States, the most commonly used language in this region is English followed by Spanish. There are many other languages used as well, but not widely. The population of this area is approximately 69.8 million, about 21% of the U.S. population.

Geography & Climate

The West is known for its diverse geography, ranging from Pacific coastlines and towering mountain ranges to deserts and forests. Alaska adds arctic tundra, while Hawaii provides a tropical island environment. Climate varies widely: arid deserts in Nevada and Arizona, rainy coasts in Washington and Oregon, snowy mountains in Colorado and Montana, and tropical warmth in Hawaii.

Top Tourist Destinations

Grand Canyon
Yellowstone National Park
Yosemite National Park
Glacier National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Seattle’s Space Needle
San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge

Most Populated Cities

Los Angeles, California
San Diego, California
San Jose, California
San Francisco, California
Seattle, Washington
Denver, Colorado
Portland, Oregon
Las Vegas, Nevada
Sacramento, California
Honolulu, Hawaii