Canada is similar to the United States, there’s no question about it. That’s probably why they love us so much. Even though Mexico is also on their borders, Canada is American’s most loved country. The reason is because of our similarities, we have so much in common, and many states share more in common with certain provinces than other states.
So what do we think are the closest American relatives to our great Canadian provinces? Well this list will tackle that, we’ll look at which ones are most similar on cultural, environment, economic and demographic dimensions. Note: usually the most similar is the state just south of the border, but that’s a bit lame. Let’s start west to east!
British Columbia
British Columbia (BC) is a diverse, vibrant province known for its stunning natural beauty, from the Pacific coastline to the Rocky Mountains. With a population of around 5.3 million, BC is Canada’s third most populous province. The economy is robust and varied, with key sectors including technology, film and television production, forestry, mining, and tourism. The cultural scene is equally dynamic, with a mix of urban sophistication in cities like Vancouver and Victoria and rich Indigenous heritage.
So, which state is the BC of America? California
Demographics: California, with a population of about 39 million, is much larger than British Columbia but shares a similar diversity. Both regions have significant immigrant populations that contribute to their multicultural atmospheres. The coastal cities in both regions are known for their progressive attitudes, with a love for renewable resources like solar and diverse communities.
Economy: Economically, California and BC are powerhouses with strong technology sectors (Silicon Valley and Vancouver’s tech scene), significant film production (Hollywood and Hollywood North), and robust tourism industries. Both regions have a focus on environmental sustainability and innovation, leading the charge in green technology and policies.
Culture: Culturally, both places are known for their liberal, progressive values. They have thriving arts scenes, diverse culinary landscapes, and a deep connection to the natural environment. The lifestyle in both regions emphasizes outdoor activities, from beach sports to mountain hikes, and a general love for the natural beauty surrounding them.
Environment: While California’s climate is more varied, both regions boast stunning coastlines, impressive mountain ranges, deserts and lush forests. The outdoor lifestyle is a significant part of the culture in both BC and California, with residents and visitors alike enjoying the natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Alberta
Alberta is known for its vast prairies, majestic Rocky Mountains, and rich oil sands. With a population of around 4.4 million, it is Canada’s fourth most populous province. The economy is heavily driven by the energy sector, particularly oil and gas, but also includes agriculture, technology, and tourism. Alberta’s culture is a mix of rugged individualism, a strong work ethic, and vibrant arts and festival scenes in cities like Calgary and Edmonton.
So, which state is the Alberta of America? Texas
Demographics: Texas, with a population of about 30 million, is significantly larger than Alberta but shares a similar frontier spirit. Both regions have a mix of urban and rural populations, with large cities and vast, open spaces. They also both have a reputation for independence and self-reliance.
Economy: Economically, Texas and Alberta are kindred spirits. Both are heavily reliant on the energy sector, with oil and gas playing a crucial role. In addition, they have strong agricultural sectors and are known for their cattle ranching. Recently, both regions have been diversifying into technology and other industries.
Culture: Culturally, Texas and Alberta share a love for rodeos, country music, and a rugged lifestyle. They have vibrant arts scenes and host significant cultural festivals, such as the Calgary Stampede and South by Southwest in Austin. Both regions are also known for their friendly, hospitable people and a strong sense of regional pride.
Environment: While Texas is much hotter and more arid than Alberta, both regions have significant natural beauty. Alberta’s Rocky Mountains are mirrored by Texas’s varied landscapes, from deserts to forests to the Gulf Coast. Both regions are popular for outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.
Alberta and Texas share a spirit of rugged independence, economic reliance on energy, and a strong cultural identity that celebrates both urban sophistication and rural traditions. They are both places where the frontier spirit is alive and well, and where natural beauty and economic might go hand in hand.
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan is known for its vast prairies, expansive farmlands, and clear skies. With a population of about 1.2 million, it is one of Canada’s less populous provinces. The economy is heavily based on agriculture, particularly grain and cattle farming, but also includes mining, oil, and natural gas. Culturally, Saskatchewan is known for its close-knit communities, rich Indigenous heritage, and love for outdoor activities.
So, which state is the Saskatchewan of America? Kansas
Demographics: Kansas, with a population of around 3 million, is larger than Saskatchewan but shares a similar rural, agricultural character. Both regions have predominantly small towns and rural communities, with a few larger cities serving as economic and cultural hubs.
Economy: Economically, Kansas and Saskatchewan are quite similar. Both are major agricultural producers, with vast farmlands dedicated to grain and livestock. They also have significant energy sectors, including oil, natural gas, and in Saskatchewan’s case, potash mining. Both regions are essential to their country’s food production and energy supply.
Culture: Culturally, Kansas and Saskatchewan share a strong sense of community and a slower-paced, down-to-earth lifestyle. They both have a rich history of Indigenous cultures and a deep connection to the land. Community events, local fairs, and sports, especially high school and college teams, play a significant role in local life.
Environment: The landscapes of Kansas and Saskatchewan are remarkably similar, characterized by wide-open spaces, flat prairies, and expansive farmlands. Both regions experience harsh winters and hot summers, with a climate that is well-suited to agriculture. Outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and farming are integral parts of life in both areas.
Saskatchewan and Kansas share a strong agricultural heritage, a sense of community, and a landscape defined by vast prairies and farmlands. They are both regions where the simplicity of rural life and the importance of agriculture are central to their identity.
Manitoba
Manitoba is known for its prairies, lakes, and boreal forests. With a population of around 1.4 million, it’s one of Canada’s central provinces. The economy is diverse, with key sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and hydroelectric power. Manitoba’s cultural landscape is vibrant, featuring a mix of Indigenous heritage, a strong Franco-Manitoban community, and a thriving arts scene in cities like Winnipeg.
So, which state is the Manitoba of America? Minnesota
Demographics: Minnesota, with a population of around 5.7 million, is larger than Manitoba but shares a similar demographic and cultural makeup. Both regions have significant Indigenous populations and a strong presence of communities with Scandinavian and other European roots. They also share a reputation for friendly and welcoming residents.
Economy: Economically, Minnesota and Manitoba are quite similar. Both have diverse economies with strengths in agriculture, manufacturing, and mining. Additionally, they are leaders in renewable energy, particularly hydroelectric power in Manitoba and wind power in Minnesota. Both regions also have significant healthcare and education sectors.
Culture: Culturally, Minnesota and Manitoba share a love for the outdoors, a vibrant arts scene, and a strong sense of community. Both places have rich Indigenous cultures and a history of European settlement. They are known for their music festivals, theater productions, and strong literary communities. Winter sports are also a big part of life, with ice hockey being particularly popular.
Environment: The landscapes of Minnesota and Manitoba are strikingly similar, characterized by vast prairies, numerous lakes, and dense forests. Both regions experience cold winters and warm summers, making them popular destinations for activities like fishing, hunting, camping, and skiing. Their natural beauty is a significant part of the local lifestyle and tourism industry.
Manitoba and Minnesota share a diverse economy, a vibrant cultural scene, and a landscape defined by prairies, lakes, and forests. They are both regions where the natural environment and a strong sense of community play central roles in shaping their identities.
Ontario
Ontario is Canada’s most populous province, home to about 14.7 million people. It features a dynamic mix of urban centres, like Toronto and Ottawa, and vast rural and natural areas, including the Great Lakes and the Canadian Shield. Ontario’s economy is the largest in Canada, driven by sectors such as finance, manufacturing, technology, and natural resources. The cultural landscape is diverse, with a strong multicultural population and rich arts, sports, and educational institutions.
So, which state is the Ontario of America? New York
Demographics: New York State, with a population of around 19.8 million, is larger than Ontario but shares a similar urban-rural mix. Both regions have diverse populations with significant immigrant communities. The major cities, Toronto and New York City, are global hubs of culture, finance, and media.
Economy: Economically, New York and Ontario are powerhouses. Both have significant financial sectors, with Toronto being Canada’s financial capital and New York City being a global financial center. Manufacturing, technology, and media are also key industries in both regions. Additionally, both have robust education and healthcare sectors, with numerous world-class universities and hospitals.
Culture: Culturally, New York and Ontario are vibrant and diverse. Both are known for their multicultural populations and a rich tapestry of cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and music venues. They are both cultural leaders, with significant influence in arts, fashion, and cuisine. Sports are also a big part of life, with iconic teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs and the New York Yankees.
Environment: The natural landscapes of New York and Ontario share similarities, particularly around the Great Lakes region. Both have vast forested areas, numerous lakes, and significant agricultural land. They experience four distinct seasons, with cold winters and warm summers, making them popular for a range of outdoor activities.
Ontario and New York share a powerful economic engine, a rich cultural scene, and a diverse population. They are both regions where urban sophistication meets natural beauty, creating a unique blend of opportunities and lifestyles.
Quebec
Quebec is Canada’s largest province by area and the second most populous, with about 8.6 million residents. It is known for its distinct French-speaking majority, rich history, and vibrant culture. The economy is diverse, with strengths in aerospace, technology, pharmaceuticals, and hydroelectric power. Quebec City and Montreal are the cultural and economic hubs, boasting a blend of old-world charm and modern innovation.
So, which state is the Quebec of America? Massachusetts
Demographics: Massachusetts, with a population of around 7 million, is similar in size to Quebec. Both regions have a strong cultural identity, although Massachusetts is predominantly English-speaking. They share a history of early European settlement and a mix of urban and rural communities. Both also have significant immigrant populations contributing to their diverse cultural landscapes.
Economy: Economically, Massachusetts and Quebec are leaders in innovation and technology. Massachusetts, with its renowned institutions like MIT and Harvard, mirrors Quebec’s emphasis on education and research. Both regions are strong in the aerospace, technology, and pharmaceutical industries. Hydroelectric power is significant in Quebec, while Massachusetts focuses on renewable energy sources, including wind and solar power.
Culture: Culturally, Massachusetts and Quebec share a rich history and a love for the arts. Both regions have a deep appreciation for music, theater, and literature. They host numerous cultural festivals, such as the Quebec Winter Carnival and Boston’s various music and arts festivals. Sports are also integral, with passionate fans supporting teams like the Montreal Canadiens and the Boston Red Sox.
Environment: The natural landscapes of Massachusetts and Quebec include beautiful forests, rivers, and coastlines. Both regions experience four distinct seasons, with snowy winters and warm summers. Outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and sailing are popular in both areas, reflecting their residents’ love for nature and the outdoors.
Quebec and Massachusetts share a strong focus on education and innovation, a rich cultural heritage, and a love for their natural environments. They are regions where history and modernity coexist, offering a unique blend of tradition and progress.
New Brunswick
New Brunswick is a small, maritime province with a population of about 780,000. It is known for its beautiful coastline, Acadian culture, and bilingual English-French population. The economy is diverse but traditionally centered around natural resources like forestry, fishing, and mining, with growing sectors in manufacturing and technology.
So, which state is the New Brunswick of America? Maine
Demographics: Maine, with a population of about 1.3 million, is similar in size and rural character to New Brunswick. Both regions have significant French-speaking communities and a shared cultural heritage with the Acadian and Maritime cultures.
Economy: Economically, Maine and New Brunswick are quite similar. Both have economies traditionally based on natural resources, including forestry, fishing, and agriculture. They are also experiencing growth in manufacturing and technology sectors. Tourism is a significant industry in both regions, driven by their natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Culture: Culturally, Maine and New Brunswick share a close connection to the sea, with a lifestyle that includes boating, fishing, and coastal living. They both have strong ties to their Indigenous and Acadian heritage, with vibrant cultural festivals celebrating these communities. The food culture is also similar, with a focus on seafood like lobster and clams.
Environment: The natural landscapes of Maine and New Brunswick are almost mirror images, featuring rugged coastlines, dense forests, and numerous lakes and rivers. Both regions experience similar climates, with cold winters and mild summers, making them popular destinations for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing.
New Brunswick and Maine share a strong connection to their natural environments, similar economic foundations, and rich cultural heritages. They are regions where the coastal lifestyle and rural charm are deeply ingrained in the way of life.
Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia is a maritime province known for its stunning coastline, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene. With a population of around 970,000, it is a province rich in history, particularly from its seafaring and shipbuilding past. The economy is diverse, with significant contributions from the fishing, forestry, mining, and tourism industries, as well as a growing tech sector. Halifax, the capital, is a bustling urban center with a strong cultural and educational presence.
So, which state is the Nova Scotia of America? Rhode Island
Demographics: Rhode Island, with a population of about 1.1 million, is similar in size to Nova Scotia. Both regions have a mix of urban and rural communities and share a coastal character. They have diverse populations with rich histories, including significant contributions from early European settlers and maritime industries.
Economy: Economically, Rhode Island and Nova Scotia have similarities in their focus on maritime activities, including fishing and shipbuilding. Both regions have a strong tourism sector, driven by their beautiful coastlines and historic sites. Additionally, both have been expanding their tech and education sectors, with significant institutions in Halifax and Providence contributing to their local economies.
Culture: Culturally, Rhode Island and Nova Scotia share a love for the sea and a rich arts scene. Both places are known for their vibrant music, arts, and theater communities. They host numerous cultural events and festivals, such as the Halifax International Busker Festival and the Newport Folk Festival. Their culinary scenes also emphasize seafood, with local specialties like lobster and clams being prominent.
Environment: The natural landscapes of Rhode Island and Nova Scotia are quite similar, characterized by rugged coastlines, scenic beaches, and lush forests. Both regions experience four distinct seasons, with mild summers and cold winters, making them attractive for a variety of outdoor activities like sailing, hiking, and skiing.
Nova Scotia and Rhode Island share a strong maritime heritage, diverse economies with growing tech sectors, and vibrant cultural scenes. They are regions where the sea shapes the way of life, and history and modernity coexist beautifully.
Prince Edward Island (PEI):
Prince Edward Island is Canada’s smallest province by both land area and population, with around 160,000 residents. Known for its red sandy beaches, rolling countryside, and lush farmlands, PEI is a picturesque and tranquil place. The economy is primarily based on agriculture, particularly potatoes, as well as fishing, tourism, and increasingly, renewable energy. The island is also famous for being the setting of the beloved novel “Anne of Green Gables.”
So, which state is the PEI of America? Vermont:
Demographics: Vermont, with a population of about 645,000, is larger than PEI but shares a similarly small, community-focused character. Both regions are known for their rural charm and close-knit communities. They also have a relatively homogenous population compared to larger, more diverse states and provinces.
Economy: Economically, Vermont and PEI share a strong focus on agriculture. Vermont is famous for its dairy farms and maple syrup, while PEI is renowned for its potato farming. Both regions also rely on tourism, drawn by their natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Additionally, both are making strides in renewable energy, with a growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Culture: Culturally, Vermont and PEI share a love for simplicity and a slower pace of life. They are both known for their charming small towns, local arts and crafts, and a strong sense of community. Festivals celebrating local food, music, and heritage are common in both places. PEI’s “Anne of Green Gables” has a cultural counterpart in Vermont’s literary heritage, including authors like Robert Frost.
Environment: The natural landscapes of Vermont and PEI are characterized by their scenic beauty. PEI’s rolling farmlands and sandy beaches parallel Vermont’s lush green hills and pristine lakes. Both regions experience four distinct seasons, with picturesque autumns and snowy winters, making them ideal for activities like hiking, cycling, and skiing.
Prince Edward Island and Vermont share a rural, community-oriented lifestyle, strong agricultural economies, and a commitment to preserving their natural beauty. They are regions where simplicity and charm define the way of life, and where the landscape plays a central role in shaping their identities.
More coming soon!
