Commonwealth vs. State in the U.S.: Key Differences

In the U.S., "commonwealth" and "state" are often used interchangeably, but distinctions exist:

• Commonwealth: Originally a self-governing political community. Four states use this term: Kentucky, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Virginia—all former British colonies that retained the title.
• State: The other 46 states, created post-independence or annexed.
• Federal Oversight: Commonwealths are not subject to the same federal budget approval requirements.
• Internal Differences: Kentucky and Virginia have their own constitutions; Massachusetts and Pennsylvania do not.

Overall, "commonwealth" denotes a self-governing entity with slightly different federal relations.