When it comes to patriotism in the United States, certain states shine brighter than others. Patriotism can be measured through various metrics such as military enlistment rates, voter participation, volunteerism, and national pride. Based on these criteria, here are the top patriotic states in America for 2024.
Virginia
Virginia holds the title of the most patriotic state in America for 2024. With nearly 1,900 active-duty military personnel per 100,000 civilians, it ranks third in the nation for military presence. Additionally, Virginia has about 107 veterans per 1,000 civilians, making it second in the country according to WalletHub’s 2024 data.
Old Dominion in Virginia also excels in civic patriotism. In the 2020 presidential election, 71.5% of its residents voted, significantly higher than the national average of 67%. Furthermore, Virginia ranks seventh for the number of Peace Corps volunteers per capita. The state also emphasizes education in U.S. history and civics, requiring these courses for high school graduation.
Alaska
Alaska ranks as the second-most patriotic state in the nation, boasting an exceptionally high number of veterans and active-duty service members per capita. The state is home to nearly 3,500 active-duty military personnel per 100,000 civilians and approximately 134 veterans per 1,000 civilians.
Moreover, Alaskans demonstrate their civic duty through jury service, with the state having the fifth-highest number of jurors per capita in the past year. As per 2021 reports, Alaska also ranked fifth for its high volunteer rate, further contributing to its standing. Additionally, the state has a significant number of AmeriCorps volunteers per capita, showcasing the residents’ commitment to serving others and their community.
Montana
In the 2020 presidential election, 73.5% of Montana’s eligible voters cast their ballots, and nearly 46% participated in the primary—the highest primary turnout in the country. The state also has a strong tradition of volunteerism. Over 31% of Montana residents volunteer for various organizations, compared to the national average where more than half of the states have volunteer rates below 25%.
Additionally, Montana honors its veterans with 104 veterans per 1,000 civilians, the fourth-highest rate in the nation. Each year, the governor awards the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation to outstanding veterans who have selflessly served our country and positively impacted their communities. In 2021, 31 veterans received this award, and in 2022, 51 veterans were honored.
Maine
The state has a veteran population of 9.0% in 2022 and a military enlistment rate of 6.3 per 1,000 residents. Maine had the highest voter turnout in the November 2022 General Election, with 61.8% of citizens of voting age participating.
When considering active registered voters, the turnout was even higher, with 73.3% of them casting their ballots. Volunteerism is also a key part of Maine’s community life, with 38.7% of residents engaged in volunteer work annually.
Oregon
According to WalletHub rankings in 2024, the state ranks 2nd in civic engagement, reflecting its residents’ strong commitment to voting, volunteering, and participating in civic activities. Oregon also has a veteran population of 7.40% in 2022.
Volunteerism is a cornerstone of Oregonian culture, with 43.2% of residents volunteering their time annually. Events like the Portland Rose Festival often incorporate patriotic elements, celebrating both the state’s history and national pride.
Colorado
According to WalletHub’s 2024 rankings, Colorado holds the 11th position in military engagement and 3rd in civic engagement, demonstrating its residents’ strong commitment to both national defense and community involvement. The state is home to several major military installations, including Fort Carson and the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Colorado’s voter turnout was 58.5% in the 2022 midterms, one of the highest in the nation. The state also has a robust volunteer culture, with 32.4% of residents participating in volunteer activities annually. Colorado’s patriotic celebrations, such as the annual Denver Independence Eve, highlight the state’s national pride.
New Hampshire
The state has a veteran population of 7.7% in 2022 and a military enlistment rate of 5.6 per 1,000 residents. Volunteerism is also significant, with 35.7% of residents engaging in community service annually. According to WalletHub’s 2024 rankings, Colorado ranks 4th in civic engagement, highlighting the state’s strong commitment to community participation and public service.
Washington
Washington’s combination of high civic participation and military presence places it eighth. The state has a veteran population of 7.70% in 2022. According to WalletHub’s 2024 rankings, the state holds the 12th position in military engagement and 11th in civic engagement, showcasing its dedication to both national defense and active community participation. Washington also has a vibrant volunteer culture, with 35.7% of residents volunteering annually.
Maryland
According to WalletHub’s 2024 rankings, Maryland holds the 8th in civic engagement, showcasing its dedication to both national defense and active community participation. As of 2022, Maryland is home to 324,204 veterans, representing 8.1% of its population. This ranks Maryland 19th in the nation for its veteran population. The state also boasts a strong culture of volunteerism, with 36.3% of residents participating in community service annually.
Hawaii
The state has a veteran population of 8.20% in 2022 and a military enlistment rate of 6.8 per 1,000 residents. According to WalletHub’s 2024 rankings, Hawaii holds the 2nd position in military engagement, reflecting the state’s significant commitment to national defense and support for its armed forces. Hawaii’s annual celebrations, such as the Pearl Harbor Day Commemoration, highlight the state’s deep connection to national history and military service.
Wyoming
According to WalletHub’s 2024 rankings, Wyoming holds the 7th position in military engagement and 17th in civic engagement, highlighting the state’s strong commitment to national defense and active involvement in community affairs. The state also boasts a strong culture of volunteerism, with 32.7% of residents participating in community service annually.
North Dakota
According to WalletHub’s 2024 rankings, North Dakota holds the 10th position in military engagement and 16th in civic engagement, reflecting the state’s dedication to both national service and robust community participation.
The state has one of the highest rates of participation in the National Guard, with nearly 4,000 active members, accounting for about 0.5% of the state’s population, which is above the national average.
