Which state has the lowest SNAP recipients?

The state with the lowest SNAP recipients can be measured in two ways, absolute numbers and participation rate. In absolute numbers, the smallest states by population naturally have the fewest recipients. Wyoming, North Dakota, and New Hampshire consistently have the lowest total number of SNAP participants, often in the tens of thousands compared to millions in large states. In terms of participation rate, which is the percentage of the state population receiving SNAP, New Hampshire, Wyoming, and Utah often have the lowest rates, frequently under 6 to 7 percent of their populations. These states tend to have lower poverty rates, higher median incomes, lower unemployment, and higher costs of living that may affect outreach, as well as more restrictive state policy choices in some cases. It is important to distinguish low enrollment due to lower need versus low enrollment due to barriers to access. States with low participation rates still operate SNAP statewide, but a smaller share of their residents meet income eligibility or apply for benefits compared to states like New Mexico or Louisiana where participation rates are much higher.