Free Top 10 U.S. States with the Smallest Budget Surpluses (2020-2025) Chart
The chart presents the top 10 U.S. states with the smallest budget surpluses from 2020 to 2025, shedding light on fiscal challenges and constrained state finances. Alabama and Mississippi record the lowest surpluses, averaging around $9–10 million, reflecting limited revenue growth and high public spending commitments. Nevada and Arkansas follow closely, maintaining surpluses near $10–11 million, influenced by fluctuating tourism and industrial revenues. Kentucky and Montana show moderate increases over time, rising from about $9 million in 2020 to nearly $12 million in 2025, suggesting gradual budget stabilization. Delaware and Maine remain consistent with surpluses between $8.5–10 million, while North Dakota and Vermont report the smallest fiscal cushions at around $8 million each in 2025. Overall, the chart underscores how economic volatility, limited tax bases, and regional constraints contribute to tight fiscal margins, highlighting states that may require stronger budgetary reform and diversified revenue strategies.
| Labels | 2020 Surplus | 2021 Surplus | 2022 Surplus | 2023 Surplus | 2024 Surplus | 2025 Surplus |
| Alabama | 12 | 13 | 11.5 | 12.2 | 11.6 | 11 |
| Mississippi | 11 | 10.5 | 10.8 | 10 | 9.5 | 9 |
| Nevada | 9.5 | 10 | 10.2 | 10.5 | 10.4 | 10.3 |
| Arkansas | 9.9 | 9.8 | 9.6 | 9.5 | 9.3 | 8.9 |
| Kentucky | 13 | 12.5 | 12 | 11.8 | 11.5 | 11.1 |
| Montana | 12 | 11.8 | 11.7 | 11.9 | 11.4 | 11.2 |
| Delaware | 10.5 | 10.6 | 10.7 | 10.8 | 10.9 | 11 |
| Maine | 9 | 9.2 | 9.5 | 9.6 | 9.4 | 9.3 |
| North Dakota | 8.5 | 8.7 | 8.8 | 9 | 9.1 | 9.2 |
| Vermont | 8 | 8.5 | 8.2 | 8.3 | 8.4 | 8.5 |
