Is Puerto Rico a U.S. State? Understanding Its Territorial Status

No, Puerto Rico is not a U.S. state. It is an unincorporated territory of the United States.

What This Means

• Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens (since 1917).
• The island is self-governing locally but ultimately subject to U.S. Congress.
• Residents cannot vote in presidential elections and have no voting representation in Congress (only a Resident Commissioner with limited voice).
• Multiple referendums on statehood, independence, or enhanced commonwealth status have been held; none have resulted in a status change.

The debate over Puerto Rico's future political status continues.