The Reality of Living in Non-Contiguous US States: Affluence, Signs, and Lifestyle
When discussing the United States, most people think of the 48 contiguous states. However, the truth is much more diverse. States like Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and others, while not part of the continental U.S., share many similarities with their mainland counterparts. This article will explore how the non-contiguous states like Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and Puerto Rico compare in terms of lifestyle, infrastructure, and affluence.
Why Non-Contiguous US States Matter
Non-contiguous states, such as Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and Puerto Rico, are territories or states that are not part of the 48 contiguous states. While they are indeed part of the United States, they often have unique characteristics that set them apart from each other and from the mainland states. This diversity is part of what makes the United States so rich in culture and lifestyle.
License Plates in Non-Contiguous US States
One of the first things people often notice when entering a non-contiguous state is the license plates. The size and shape of the plates can vary, but the content tends to be unique to each state. For example, residents of Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and Puerto Rico may find that their license plates are different in design and colors. However, all these license plates typically conform to the standard size of any other U.S. state.
Although each territory or state has its own unique design, the size and shape are uniform, ensuring consistency across the nation.
Freeway Signs in Non-Contiguous US States
Freeway signs are another key feature that visitors and residents of non-contiguous US states may notice. While each state or territory may have its own unique signs, in many cases, the road signs do align with the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), which is the standard set by the Federal Highway Administration.
For instance, in Hawaii, the freeways are marked with the standard interstate signs, but they include the state designation prefix 'H.' This means that if you see 'H-101,' it signifies the 101st highway in Hawaii, just as 'I-10' would be the 10th interstate in another state.
Affluence in Non-Contiguous US States
A common question often raised is whether non-contiguous US states are as affluent as the 48 contiguous states. The answer is yes, in many cases.
Hawaii, Alaska, and Guam are known for their high affluence. Luxury homes and high-end malls can be found, much like in major cities on the mainland. For example, Guam, while being a U.S. territory, has its own state government and even state guard units. It is comparable to Hawaii in terms of infrastructure, including military bases, state government offices, and high-end shopping options like Home Depot and Kmart.
Both Hawaii and Guam have their own malls, reminiscent of those found in the 90s in the 48 states. The same diversity in lifestyle exists - from high-end living areas to more modest living conditions.
Unique Features of Non-Contiguous US States
Some non-contiguous states, like Alaska, are indeed vast in size, making them unique. For instance, Alaska’s land area is larger than that of any other state, and it’s often associated with the phrase "non-contiguous" rather than "non-mainland." However, Alaska is deeply connected to the United States, with federal highways and regular service to the mainland via airports and ships.
Hawaii, on the other hand, is an archipelago and a state in its own right. It has its own state government and national guard unit, much like other states. The affluence in Hawaii is notable, with many luxury resorts, high-end shopping, and a vibrant financial sector.
Guam, while a U.S. territory, has a high standard of living and a strong economy. It is home to a large military base, which contributes significantly to its economy. Additionally, Guam has a state government and a vibrant shopping mall scene, comparable to many mainland states.
Conclusion
The non-contiguous US states, while geographically distant from the mainland, share many similarities with their counterparts. With unique yet comparable infrastructure, lifestyle, and affluence, these states offer a dynamic and unique experience to residents and visitors alike.