The United States is a land of dramatic elevation extremes, where soaring western peaks contrast sharply with low-lying eastern plains. According to data from the US Census Statistical Abstract, the 10 highest-elevation states are all in the West, underscoring a stark geographic divide. Meanwhile, nearly half of US states sit 1,000 feet (305 meters) below sea level, clustered in the East and South. These elevations shape climates, economies, and cultures, from ski resorts to floodplains.
Intrigued? Click on to see where each state stands.