Georgia is one of the oldest southeastern states, joining the Union in 1776. The state transitions from the coastal plains, barrier islands, and swamps in the southeast to rolling hills and the southern end of the Appalachians in the northwest corner. With so much terrain variation throughout the state, how tall is Georgia?
Where is Georgia Located on a Map?
Georgia’s Path to Statehood
When Europe began its colonization of North America, Georgia had already been inhabited by Native Americans since the end of the Ice Age. Georgia was part of the original colonial system of North America on the eve of the American Revolution. In 1788, Georgia was the fourth state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. At that time, Georgia was a larger state, with territory that now makes up parts of Alabama and Mississippi. It ceded these parts in 1802, though it had taken part of South Carolina before that.
Geography
Georgia is on the eastern coast of the United States, just north of Florida. It is bordered on the east and west by South Carolina and Alabama, respectively. Its northern border is shared with Tennessee and North Carolina. Its eastern border follows the Chattooga and Savannah Rivers to the Atlantic Ocean. Georgia is the largest state east of the Mississippi.
How Tall is Georgia
Georgia is about 298 miles long from its northern to southern border. This is at its longest point. In comparison, the state is 230 miles wide, making it longer than it is wide. The northern border of Georgia matches up with that of Alabama, though the southern border extends further south into Florida than it does.
Overall Size
Overall, Georgia is 298 miles long by 230 miles wide. It covers an area of 59,425 square miles (153,909 square kilometers.) At its highest elevation, Georgia reaches 4,784 feet above sea level. Its lowest point is where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Though it is the largest state east of the Mississippi, it is only the 24th largest state in the U.S.
Comparison to Similar and Well-Known States
Similar States
State | Width (miles) | Height (miles) | Area (sq. mi.) |
---|---|---|---|
Florida | 361 | 447 | 65,758 |
Wisconsin | 260 | 311 | 65,496 |
Illinois | 210 | 390 | 57,913 |
Iowa | 200 | 310 | 56,272 |
Other Well-Known States
State | Width (miles) | Height (miles) | Area (sq. mi.) |
---|---|---|---|
California | 250 | 760 | 163,695 |
New York | 330 | 285 | 54,555 |
Texas | 773 | 801 | 268,596 |
Colorado | 380 | 280 | 104,094 |
Wildlife
With such varied terrain, Georgia has a diverse wildlife community, from the mountains to the swamps, riverways, and oceanfront. Alligators, right whales, endangered loggerhead turtles, bottlenose dolphins, black bears, white-tailed deer, and fox squirrels call the state home. Sixty-five endangered plants and species can be found here. Birders can also find 350 species of birds. The state can even boast one of the largest wild hogs ever discovered, measuring over 7 feet long and weighing over 800 pounds.
Conclusion
The 24th largest state in the U.S., Georgia measures 298 miles long from north to south. While not one of the largest states, it does hold the distinction of being the largest state east of the Mississippi.
The photo featured at the top of this post is © Sue Smith/Shutterstock.com
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