Introduction

Let's explore firearm sales statistics in the US in two separate per-state perspectives: [1] the # of firearms sold per 1,000 residents and [2] the total number of firearms sold per state throughout 2023. Before we get into this, try to make your own predictions about which states sell the most firearms. And did the map above match your expectations regarding the number of firearms sold per capita? We'll talk about some of the tops, bottoms and surprises that you may not have expected. You can also find the raw data in the methodology section.

Methodology

The data in the charts shown above and further down in the article is build based on two sources. The number of firearms per state is build upon the NICS Firearm Checks figures published by the FBI, specifically the per-state figures from January 2023 to December 2023. This was then matched against the 2023 population figures per-state from worldpopulationreview.com. According to retailer surveys analyzed by Small Arms Survey, it is estimated that for every check performed on handguns and long guns, approximately 1.1 firearms are sold. Additionally, for each check labeled as ‘multiple,’ about 2 firearms are sold. For your convenience, all the processed data used on the charts in this article can be accessed in the table below:

State	Total Firearms Sold During 2023	State Population In 2023	Firearms Sold Per 1000 Residents During 2023
Alabama	469,109	5,108,468	91.83
Alaska	76,026	733,406	103.66
Arizona	384,833	7,431,344	51.79
Arkansas	193,466	3,067,732	63.06
California	819,316	38,965,193	21.03
Colorado	443,790	5,877,610	75.51
Connecticut	99,721	3,617,176	27.57
Delaware	44,954	1,031,890	43.56
Florida	1,244,177	22,610,726	55.03
Georgia	404,749	11,029,227	36.7
Idaho	151,948	1,964,726	77.34
Illinois	489,489	12,549,689	39
Indiana	474,627	6,862,199	69.17
Iowa	80,250	3,207,004	25.02
Kansas	170,389	2,940,546	57.94
Kentucky	280,057	4,526,154	61.88
Louisiana	271,457	4,573,749	59.35
Maine	113,732	1,395,722	81.49
Maryland	211,411	6,180,253	34.21
Massachusetts	115,622	7,001,399	16.51
Michigan	528,797	10,037,261	52.68
Minnesota	295,917	5,737,915	51.57
Mississippi	220,904	2,939,690	75.15
Missouri	494,908	6,196,156	79.87
Montana	129,090	1,132,812	113.96
Nebraska	26,650	1,978,379	13.47
Nevada	106,843	3,194,176	33.45
NewHampshire	129,549	1,402,054	92.4
NewJersey	160,741	9,290,841	17.3
NewMexico	153,807	2,114,371	72.74
NewYork	314,065	19,571,216	16.05
NorthCarolina	481,709	10,835,491	44.46
NorthDakota	64,650	783,926	82.47
Ohio	560,445	11,785,935	47.55
Oklahoma	307,341	4,053,824	75.82
Oregon	423,336	4,233,358	100
Pennsylvania	841,160	12,961,683	64.9
RhodeIsland	26,889	1,095,962	24.53
SouthCarolina	247,228	5,373,555	46.01
SouthDakota	69,745	919,318	75.87
Tennessee	608,223	7,126,489	85.35
Texas	1,290,336	30,503,301	42.3
Utah	133,670	3,417,734	39.11
Vermont	44,969	647,464	69.45
Virginia	535,239	8,715,698	61.41
Washington	397,616	7,812,880	50.89
WestVirginia	158,861	1,770,071	89.75
Wisconsin	400,103	5,910,955	67.69
Wyoming	62,436	584,057	106.9

What states have the most firearms sales per 1000 residents

The following states are the top 10 when it comes to the most firearms sold per 1000 residents:

1. Montana with 113.96 firearms sold per 1000 residents
2. Wyoming with 106.9 firearms sold per 1000 residents
3. Alaska with 103.66 firearms sold per 1000 residents
4. Oregon with 100 firearms sold per 1000 residents
5. New Hampshire with 92.4 firearms sold per 1000 residents
6. Alabama with 91.83 firearms sold per 1000 residents
7. West Virginia with 89.75 firearms sold per 1000 residents
8. Tennessee with 85.35 firearms sold per 1000 residents
9. North Dakota with 82.47 firearms sold per 1000 residents
10. Maine with 81.49 firearms sold per 1000 residents

The following 10 US states have the least number of firearms sold per 1000 residents:

1. Nebraska with 13.47 firearms sold per 1000 residents
2. New York with 16.05 firearms sold per 1000 residents
3. Massachusetts with 16.51 firearms sold per 1000 residents
4. New Jersey with 17.3 firearms sold per 1000 residents
5. California with 21.03 firearms sold per 1000 residents
6. Rhode Island with 24.53 firearms sold per 1000 residents
7. Iowa with 25.02 firearms sold per 1000 residents
8. Connecticut with 27.57 firearms sold per 1000 residents
9. Nevada with 33.45 firearms sold per 1000 residents
10. Maryland with 34.21 firearms sold per 1000 residents

What states sell the most firearms per year

Looking at the total number of firearm sales yearly, per state, is a different perspective than looking at the sales per 1000 residents and such a map paints a different picture. Texas is the number one state in firearms sales in 2023 with a total estimate of 1,290,336 firearms sold during the year 2023. Texas is followed closely by Florida, as a total estimate of 1,244,177 firearms have been sold in Florida in the year 2023. Nebraska was the state with the lowest number of firearm sales in 2023 with a total estimate of 26,650 firearms sold. This means Nebraska has been both the state with the lowest total of firearms sold as well as the lowest in firearms sales per 1,000 residents. Counter-intuitively, while Texas sold the most firearms in 2023 than any other US state, Texas ranks 36th when it comes to firearms sold per capita. Take a look at the following US map showcasing the total number of firearms sales on a per-state basis:

Legal and Policy Factors affecting firearms sales

In general, when it comes to firearms sales in the USA, federal laws set the stage but the variation in state policies that creates a mosaic of access across the country. In addition, certain cities have heavily regulated the process to purchase a firearm. Recent legislative pushes for more comprehensive background checks and debates over the Second Amendment further fuel the dynamic interplay between law, policy, and the right to bear arms. For example, regulations that differ per-state that directly influence the number of firearms that can be sold are based on age or bans on assault weapons. Additionally, concealed carry laws may also provide a level of influence.

The state of New York, particularly New York City, stands out for low firearm sales, a phenomenon rooted in several stringent legal and bureaucratic measures. Here's why:

• Strict Eligibility Criteria: The eligibility to purchase firearms in New York City is tightly regulated, requiring applicants to be at least 21 years old, with American citizens and Alien Registration Card holders facing additional checks if they haven't lived in the country for seven years.
• Comprehensive Application Process: Prospective buyers must navigate a detailed application process for handgun licenses or rifle/shotgun permits, including separate fingerprinting, a lengthy document submission, and a non-trivial fee structure.
• Mandatory Interviews and Background Checks: Applicants undergo interviews to assess their understanding of gun laws and safe usage, coupled with FBI background checks to scrutinize any criminal or mental health records.
• Varied Permits for Specific Needs: The city offers several types of permits, each with its restrictions on usage and carry, adding layers of complexity to owning and using firearms legally.
• Challenging Concealed Carry Licensing: Obtaining a license for concealed carry is exceptionally difficult, with New York City employing a "may issue" stance that strictly limits approval.
• Non-recognition of Outside Permits: The city does not honor gun permits from outside its jurisdiction, further tightening control over firearm possession within its bounds.

Social and Economics Implications of firearms ownership

Economically, there's an incredibly influencial industry that thrives on manufacturing, selling, and the ongoing debate about firearms regulation. This industry supports jobs but also stirs a pot of legal and healthcare costs, especially when accidents or misuse lead to tragedy. Socially, firearms ownership in the United States are a strong part of cultural identity, personal freedom, and complex debates about safety and responsibility. Communities grapple with the balance between feeling protected and the unease that comes with knowing there's a gun next door. It's a topic that lives and breathes in the daily lives of millions.

Conclusion

The topic of firearms ownership stands out as a thread colored by deep historical roots, personal values, and widespread debates. While the economic impact of the firearms industry and the social implications of gun ownership are evident, finding a harmonious balance between rights and safety remains a challenge. The choices we make today about firearms will shape the legacy we leave for future generations. The path forward requires thoughtful dialogue, respect for diverse perspectives, and a collective commitment to crafting policies that safeguard both our liberties and our lives.