Kentucky vs. Tennessee: Which State Is Larger?

Tennessee is larger.

• Tennessee: 42,143 sq mi (109,153 km²) — 36th largest state.
• Kentucky: 40,408 sq mi (104,656 km²) — 37th largest state.

Difference: ~1,735 sq mi (~4,500 km²) — Tennessee is about 4.3% bigger.

Both are mid-size states; Tennessee's extra area comes from its greater east-west extent (Appalachians to Mississippi River) vs. Kentucky's more compact shape.