States That Start With S

Our post today takes a deep dive into the world of states that start with S.

Countries comprise states, which act as crucial administrative units, responsible for localized governance and public service provision. These states embrace diverse characteristics, cultural traditions, and legal systems, enriching the broader identity of nations.

Several countries around the world have states as administrative divisions. They are:

• United States: The United States is comprised of 50 states, each with its own government and specific powers, alongside federal governance.
• Australia: Australia is divided into six states (New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, and Western Australia) and two mainland territories (Northern Territory and Australian Capital Territory).
• India: India consists of 28 states and 8 union territories, with each state having its own elected government and varying degrees of autonomy.
• Brazil: Brazil is divided into 26 states and one federal district (which includes the capital city, Brasília).
• Germany: Germany is a federal republic consisting of 16 states, known as Länder, which have their own governments and legislative powers.
• Mexico: Mexico is comprised of 31 states and one federal district (Mexico City).
• Malaysia: Malaysia is divided into 13 states and three federal territories, with each state having its own legislative assembly and constitutional monarchy.
• Nigeria: Nigeria is divided into 36 states and one federal capital territory (Abuja), with each state having its own governor and state assembly.
• Canada: Canada is composed of ten provinces (such as Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia) and three territories (Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut).
• Argentina: Argentina is made up of 23 provinces and one autonomous city (Buenos Aires).

My strategy for creating a comprehensive list of every world state was to begin with the letter A and then work my way through the rest of the alphabet in order.

So, let’s begin exploring this list of states starting with S!

32 States That Start With S

And here’s the list of names of state that begin with S letter.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a fascinating city in Austria, located in the heart of the Alps. The city offers a perfect blend of history, art, and culture. It is the birthplace of the famoust composer Mozart. Visitors are transported back to the 16th century when visiting many of its Gothic and Baroque architecture. The city has a stunning old town with beautiful gardens, cathedrals and palaces, which make it an ideal place for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. A popular attraction is the Schloss Mirabell Palace & Gardens, which was built in the 17th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site which features a large fountain, mythological statues and beautiful flower beds. Visitors can also visit Mozarts Geburtshaus which has a museum that showcases the life and works of Mozart and his family.

Shan

Shan is a beautiful state located in eastern Myanmar. Known for their rich culture and traditional ways, the Shan people are charming in their unique customs, beliefs, and practices. The state is also home to the Inle Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, which is surrounded by peaceful and green hills. Visitors will love the floating villages, and the traditional fishermen that paddle their boats with one leg. The temples and pagodas found within Shan are also breathtaking to behold; They offer a glimpse into the ancient Buddhist culture that has remained unchanged for hundreds of years.

Santa Catarina

Santa Catarina state is located in Southern Brazil. It is known for its lush beaches, rolling mountains, and beautiful countryside. The state is perfect for adventure-seekers with its perfect surfing conditions. The state is very popular for its beautiful beaches and cultural activities, especially in the city of Florianopolis, which is its capital. Floripa has amazing beaches coupled with beautiful island lagoons. The lush vegetation and beautiful mountains offer many scenic hikes, Including the Serra do Mar Mountain range.

South Carolina

South Carolina is located in the southeastern United States of America. With its tranquil beaches, rich history, and scenic beauty, South Carolina is a top tourist destination. The state is home to Myrtle Beach, which is known for its 60 miles of pristine white sand beaches. Visitors to South Carolina can also explore the American Civil War museum, plantation homes, and other historical landmarks that showcase the state’s fascinating past.

Sinaloa

Sinaloa is a stunning state located on Mexico’s western coast. The state is known for having one of the largest agricultural industries in Mexico, and is famous for its landmarks such as the Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe and the beautiful Mazatlan beach resorts. The Mazatlan boardwalk is where visitors can taste its street food, enjoy the beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean while watching the sunset. Other visitors may choose to hike the popular Sierra Madre Mountains and explore the region’s caves, waterfalls, and hot springs.

Sachsen

Sachsen, in eastern Germany, is known for its cultural heritage, magnificent castles, and rich history. The state is home to many museums, theaters, and other cultural institutions that celebrate the arts, and is the perfect location for history and literature lovers. The Dresden State Art Collections showcase a priceless collection of European paintings, antiquities, and decorative arts. The region is also renowned for its dishes such as beer, sausages, and the famous Dessau-Worlitz Garden. Visitors to Sachsen can enjoy a perfect blend of history, art, and exquisite cuisines.

Sucre

Sucre is the constitutional and judicial capital of Bolivia. The city is located in the South Central part of the country, and is known for its deep colonial roots and beautiful architecture. The Casa de la Libertad is one of its most popular attractions and was the site where Bolivia declared independence from Spain in 1825. The Main Plaza is a significant site for all the Bolivians, and its it has majestic monuments of its legendary leaders. It is the center of Catholicism in Bolivia, so the city has a natural grandeur in its decorative catholic shrines.

Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region

The Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region is located in the southwestern part of Ethiopia. The region is diverse, with several different ethnic groups, each speaking its language, and with different customs and traditions. Among the region’s attractions are the Omo Valley, where visitors can meet the local tribes of the Mursi, Hamer, and Konso people. The Bale Mountains National Park, which includes a range of the highest peaks in Ethiopia (the highest is Tullu Daandii), is also a great opportunity for hiking, and visitors can spot unique mountain wildlife.

Sokoto

Sokoto State is located in the northwestern region of Nigeria. The state is known for its magnificent palaces and cultural festivals such as the Durbar, the famous horse parade that takes place annually during the Eidl-Kabir festival. Other popular activities in the state include the Sokoto River Cruise, and visits to the numerous historic sites, such as the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Holy Family Cathedral, and the Sultan’s Palace.

Saarland

Saarland, located in southwestern Germany, is known for its rich history, beautiful forests, and vineyards. The region offers many cultural activities such as hiking and cycling, and visitors can also enjoy delicious traditional foods. One of the most beautiful landmarks is Bostalsee Lake, which offers activities such as water sports, fishing, and cruising on the lake. The region is also known for its Christmas markets, which feature different crafts, delicious foods, and drinks, and miniature villages.

South West Ethiopia Peoples’ Region

South West Ethiopia Peoples’ Region is a diverse state in Ethiopia, and is known for its traditional cultures and wildlife. Visitors can watch the crocodile farm of Arba Minch, and explore the Mago National Park, which houses endangered African animals like cheetahs, elephants, and buffalo. The state also offers other activities like Gold mining in the Omo Valley, which showcases a glimpse of the life of the local people.

Sidama Region

Sidama is a region in southern Ethiopia, and is famously known for coffee production. The region is attractively agriculturally diverse, which offers opportunities for visitors to learn about coffee production, and to explore the beautiful coffee farms. The Sidama region is home to the Awassa Lake, which provides a great way to relax, since it offers various forms of water sport activities for tourists.

South Kordofan

South Kordofan is a state located in southern Sudan, known for its valleys and high plateaus. The state is known for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife, which includes the White Nile and the Ulamo mountains. The state is home to the Nubian Pyramids, pyramids that belonged to the ancient Kingdom of Kush, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Sergipe

Sergipe is a state located in northeastern Brazil. It is known for its beaches and historic sites. The most popular tourist attraction is the Praia do Saco Beach, and the state capital’s Old Historic Center has well-preserved 17th-century architecture. Sergipe is known for its seafood specialties which include crab, prawns, and fish stews.

South Dakota

South Dakota is located in the upper midwestern United States. The state is known for its scenic drives through the Black Hills and Badlands National Parks sites and monument. Visitors can also visit Mount Rushmore, an iconic American landmark, which showcases the faces of four great American presidents. In addition, tourists can explore Wind Cave National Park, the Black Hills National Forest, and Wall Drug, a famous landmark which dates back to the 1930s.

Sachsen-Anhalt

Sachsen-Anhalt is a state located in central Germany. The state is full of palaces, fortresses, and castles–a perfect place for exploring architecture enthusiasts. Many of the state’s most famous landmarks are Gothic or Romanesque architecture and include the Cathedral of Magdeburg, the Castle of Wittenberg, and the Giebichenstein Castle. Visitors can also explore the Harz Mountains, one of Germany’s most significant hiking destinations.

Sao Paulo

São Paulo is a state in southern Brazil, known for its beaches, forests, and cosmopolitan cities. The state is home to the famous Iguazu Falls, a stunning waterfall, and world heritage, which shares its boundary with Argentina. The capital city, São Paulo, is known for its nightlife and art scene. The state provides visitors with a perfect blend of the natural beauty of its forests and beaches, as well as the cultural sophistication of its urban areas.

Selangor

Selangor is a state in Malaysia, which is considered the economic hub of the country. The state has terrific infrastructure and many tourist attractions, which include the Batu Caves, a limestone hill best known for its huge statue of Lord Murugan. Visitors to Selangor can also explore numerous museums, parks, and markets such as the Taman Wetlands and its river cruise, which showcases the exotic flora and fauna of the region.

Sennar

Senar is a state in Sudan, which is known for having the largest cotton farming in the country. The state has a rich history, and some of its highlights include the ancient ruins of the Merowe Pyramids, which date back to 300 BC. Visitors to the state can also explore the Sennar Dam, which provides irrigation and electricity to the local areas, or experience the state’s wildlife at the Sennar National Park.

Steiermark

Steiermark, also known as Styria, is a state in Austria known for its vineyards, agriculture, and cultural heritage. Visitors can experience Austrian wines and visit vineyards, as well as the Schönbrunn Palace and Graz historic center, both listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. With its beautiful green landscapes and snow-capped mountains, Styria has much to offer nature enthusiasts.

Sabah

Sabah is a state in Malaysia, known for its beaches, rainforest, and offshore magic beaches. Sabah is home to the Mount Kinabalu, having the highest peak in Malaysia, with its mysterious rainforest which has a high concentration of unique plants and animals. The Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is also a great attraction, and acquires numerous beaches, hiking, and diving opportunities.

South Darfur

South Darfur is a state in Sudan, located in the western part of the country, known for its wildlife and natural beauty. The state is home to great wildlife reserves such as the Dinder National Park and the Jebel Marra, which comprises natural resources. Other attractions include the ancient ruins of the Meroe Pyramids, which offer a glimpse into one of Africa’s great civilizations; and the Mellit Waterfalls which are known as the ‘Sudanese Niagara Falls’.

Sonora

Sonora is a state located in northwestern Mexico. It is the second-largest state in the country, and is known for its arid deserts, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the majestic Bahia de Kino beaches and enjoy water sports, or take a glimpse of the unique biomes of the Pinacate Biosphere Reserve. The state is also rich in history, and visitors can explore the Yaqui Canyon and the Museum of Popular Culture.

Schleswig-Holstein

Schleswig-Holstein is a state located in northern Germany. It is known for its stunning seaboards, national parks, and clean culture. Visitors to the state can enjoy the Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage site which is a flat plain coastal mudflats and salt marshes that showcase a unique ecosystem. The Kiel Canal, Flensburg Fjord, and the Lübeck Hanseatic city are also amazing attractions in the state which offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy canoeing, fishing, and other exciting activities.

Somali Region

The Somali Region is a state located in eastern Ethiopia, and it extends all the way to Somalia. The state is home to the Somali people, who have a rich culture, language, and traditions. Some attractions include the Harar Jugol, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is the oldest Islamic city in Ethiopia; and the Babile Elephant Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of species, including baboons, giraffes, and hyenas.

San Luis Potosi

San Luis Potosi is a state located in central Mexico. It is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and unique architecture. Visitors to the state can explore the beautiful Historic Center, the Cathedral of San Luis Potosi, and other landmarks. The state is also home to the Huasteca Potosina, a region known for its beautiful waterfalls and adventurous activities like rafting.

South Australia

South Australia is a state located in southern Australia, known for its natural beauty, wine regions, and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the Barossa Valley’s wineries and vineyards or the famous Kangaroo Island, which is home to iconic Australian wildlife like kangaroos and koalas. Adelaide, the state capital, is also home to numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions.

Saxony-Anhalt

Saxony-Anhalt is a state in eastern Germany, known for its stunning castles, rivers, and national parks. The Wörlitz Park and the Bauhaus Museum in Dessau are both on the UNESCO World Heritage list, and visitors can Marvel at the Architecture of different era, with its unique churches, palaces, and fortresses. Other attractions include the Halle Opera House, the St. Johann Valley, and the National Park Harz, which houses the highest mountain in northern Germany.

Saxony

Saxony is a state located in eastern Germany. The state is known for its cultural heritage which includes the Frauenkirche, a baroque church that has become one of German’s most visited landmarks since its reconstruction after World War II. Other attractions include the Karl May museum, porcelain manufacture exhibits in Meissen, and the Ore Mountains, a formerly metal-rich region in Germany used by hikers and skiers.

Styria

Styria, also known as Steiermark, is a state in Austria, renowned for its green and spacious regions, fall festivals, and winter wonderlands. Visitors can participate in outdoor activities such as skiing on the Dachstein Glacier, hiking in the Schladming or Styrian spa region, and taste the Styrian specialties in the famous Fisch of Mur, which is one of Austria’s highest-rated restaurants.

Sarawak

Sarawak is a state in Malaysia located on the island of Borneo. It is known for its perfect places for adventurous activities, rich culture, and unique wildlife. The state is home to the Sarawak Cultural Village, the Cat Museum, and the Bako National Park with its tropical rainforest, wildlife, and hundreds of rare species. Visitors can also marvel at the Batang Ai National Park, the Mulu Caves, and enjoy Sarawak’s delicious food.

Sikkim

Sikkim is a state in northeastern India, and the land of the mystic Himalaya mountains. The state is known for its natural beauty, monasteries, and unique culture. Some of the state’s most popular attractions include the Gurudongmar Lake, the oldest monastery of Tashiding, and the Lingdum Monastery. Visitors can also take long mountain treks in the Sikkim Himalayas or experience an early ethnic lifestyle in Sikkim’s tribal settlements.

Wrapping Up

And that’s our list of S states.

I decided the most logical way to compile a complete list of world states was to start with the letter A and continue through each letter in alphabetical order until I had listed every state.

In conclusion, states form the foundation of countries, ensuring effective governance and local empowerment. They embody the rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and aspirations within nations, promoting inclusivity and sustainable development.

Hope this post on states beginning with S alphabet has been useful to you!