7 U.S. states leading the way in mineral resources
Minerals are the foundation of modern civilization, playing a critical role in everything from smartphones and electric vehicles to bridges and satellites. In the United States, mineral resources not only power industries but also contribute significantly to state and national economies. While every state offers some form of mineral output, seven stand out for their richness in reserves, strategic importance, and scale of extraction. Here’s a look at the top U.S. states where minerals aren’t just mined, they’re shaping the future.
1. Arizona – America’s Copper Capital
Arizona consistently ranks first in the U.S. for mineral production, accounting for over $10.1 billion in value as of 2022. Copper is king here, with massive deposits fueling both domestic and international demand. The Morenci and Resolution mines are among the largest copper producers in the Western Hemisphere. Arizona’s mineral wealth also includes molybdenum, cement, and crushed stone, cementing its status as a cornerstone of U.S. resource strategy.
2. Nevada – Gold and Lithium Leader
Known as the Silver State, Nevada is now equally famous for gold—producing about 72% of all U.S. gold—and is home to prolific mining districts like Carlin Trend. Nevada also sits at the frontier of the energy transition, hosting the Thacker Pass lithium deposit, one of the largest in North America. With mineral output valued at $8.9 billion, Nevada is vital for both legacy industries and the emerging battery economy.
3. Texas – Industrial Mineral Powerhouse
Texas may be synonymous with oil, but its mineral resources are equally substantial. Valued at $8 billion, Texas’s nonfuel mineral production is dominated by crushed stone, cement, sand, and salt—materials essential for infrastructure development. The state’s vast geography and strong logistics networks make it a leading supplier to construction and energy markets nationwide.
4. California – Rare Earth and Boron Hotspot
California plays a pivotal role in the global supply of rare-earth elements—materials crucial for electronics, defense, and green technologies. The Mountain Pass mine is the only active rare-earth mine in the U.S., underscoring California’s unique importance. Additionally, the state produces significant quantities of boron, gold, and diatomite, aligning with its diverse economic and technological landscape.
5. Minnesota – Iron Ore Giant
Minnesota dominates U.S. iron ore production, responsible for 100% of the nation’s usable iron ore output, primarily from taconite. The Mesabi Iron Range continues to supply the raw materials for American steelmaking. As demand rises for infrastructure and domestic manufacturing, Minnesota remains a backbone of industrial supply chains.
6. Utah – Rich in Polymetallic Resources
Utah is a geological treasure chest, producing copper, gold, silver, molybdenum, and potash. The Bingham Canyon Mine, operated by Rio Tinto, is one of the world’s largest open-pit mines and a major contributor to the state’s $3+ billion in annual mineral output. Utah’s diversified mineral portfolio is critical for sectors ranging from agriculture to aerospace.
7. Alaska – High-Value Remote Reserves
Despite its remote terrain, Alaska is a mineral powerhouse. It’s one of the top producers of zinc and also contributes lead, silver, and gold. The Red Dog Mine is among the world’s largest sources of zinc. Alaska’s vast, undeveloped mineral potential could become increasingly important as global demand rises for strategic and critical minerals.
The U.S. mineral economy is shaped by states that offer not only vast resources but also the infrastructure and innovation to extract them efficiently. Arizona, Nevada, and Texas lead in value and volume, while California, Minnesota, Utah, and Alaska provide critical materials for modern industry. As the global economy shifts toward cleaner energy and advanced manufacturing, these seven states will remain central to meeting both national security and economic needs.