How Big is Puerto Rico Compared to Rhode Island?
Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory located in the Caribbean, is often compared to various states and regions in the United States. One of the most common comparisons is with Rhode Island, the smallest state in the United States. So, how big is Puerto Rico compared to Rhode Island?
Puerto Rico covers an area of approximately 3,515 square miles (9,104 square kilometers). This makes it slightly larger than the state of New Jersey, which has an area of about 8,722 square miles (22,607 square kilometers). In contrast, Rhode Island has a much smaller land area of approximately 1,214 square miles (3,140 square kilometers).
When comparing the sizes of Puerto Rico and Rhode Island, it’s important to note that the former is an island, while the latter is a state on the mainland. Despite this difference, the two regions are still relatively close in size. In fact, Puerto Rico is about two and a half times larger than Rhode Island.
The geographical size of Puerto Rico has a significant impact on its population and economy. With a population of over 3.3 million people, Puerto Rico is the 51st most populous state or territory in the United States. Its economy is diverse, with sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing contributing to its growth.
In conclusion, Puerto Rico is approximately two and a half times larger than Rhode Island, despite being an island and Rhode Island being a state on the mainland. This comparison highlights the unique characteristics of both regions and their respective contributions to the United States.