How Many U.S. States Start with "North"? Three (Plus a Territory)

The "North" Trio

Exactly three U.S. states begin with "North":

1. North Carolina (12th state, 1789)
2. North Dakota (39th state, 1889)
3. Northern Mariana Islands – not a state, but a U.S. Commonwealth in the Pacific.

Common Confusions

• South Carolina / South Dakota – the "South" counterparts.
• New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York – start with "New," not "North."
• West Virginia – only "West" state.

So for states: two (NC, ND). For states + territories: three (add NMI).