Question: Which U.S. state has the most counties?
Answer: Texas stands far above every other state when it comes to counties, with an unmatched 254 counties—the most in the nation. The Lone Star State’s enormous size and rapid growth during the 19th century led lawmakers to divide the state into many smaller local governments so residents could reach county seats within a day’s travel by horse or wagon. Today, that historic decision leaves Texas with more counties than any other state by a wide margin.
Georgia ranks second with 159 counties, followed by Virginia with 133. Kentucky and Missouri round out the top five with 120 and 115 counties, respectively. Kansas has 105 counties, while Illinois follows closely with 102. North Carolina sits at 100 counties, and Iowa and Tennessee complete the top 10 with 99 and 95 counties.
