Howland Island.

Howland Island is an uninhabited coral island just north of the equator in the central Pacific Ocean. Annexed by the US in 1857 under the Guano Islands Act, it became famous as the intended destination of Amelia Earhart's ill-fated 1937 round-the-world flight. Today it is a National Wildlife Refuge.

Geography & climate

Howland Island lies in the Territory of the United States, set at approximately 0.8°N, 176.6°W and falling within a sub-tropical to tropical climate band. The state covers around 2 km² of land, with topography that runs from coastal lowlands and river basins to interior plains and (where present) mountain ranges. Local weather, growing seasons and outdoor recreation in Howland Island all flow from this geographic profile.

Capital, principal city & population

The capital of Howland Island is —, where the legislature, governor’s office and state supreme court are based. The largest city by population is —, often the economic and cultural anchor of the state. Total population sits at around 0, distributed across metropolitan areas, smaller cities, and rural counties — each with its own dialect, demographics and economic character.

Status & relationship to the United States

Howland Island is a United States territory rather than a state. Residents are US nationals (and in most cases US citizens), but representation in Congress is non-voting and many federal programmes apply differently. Local government, courts and schools operate under territorial law in coordination with federal agencies.

Symbols & emblems

Howland Island is nicknamed “”. The state seal, flag and coat of arms each carry historic meaning, often referencing founding settlers, native communities, agricultural roots or pivotal episodes of state history. State legislatures have additionally adopted official symbols — a state bird, flower, tree, song, fossil and more — chosen by lawmakers (and sometimes by schoolchildren) to celebrate distinctive elements of the state’s natural and cultural heritage.

Economy & industry

The economy of Howland Island is shaped by its geography, infrastructure and population centres. Major sectors typically span agriculture, manufacturing, energy or natural resources, services, tourism and (in metropolitan corridors) finance and technology. Federal facilities, military bases and research institutions can also be substantial regional employers in Howland Island.

Travel, food & culture

For visitors, Howland Island offers a mix of urban culture (museums, music venues, sports teams, cuisine) and outdoor experience (state parks, trails, coastline or mountains, depending on the geography). Regional foodways, festivals and dialects make travel between counties feel meaningfully different — even short drives across Howland Island can shift the cultural landscape noticeably.

By the numbers

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Did you know?

On 2 July 1937, Amelia Earhart and Fred Noonan were attempting to land on Howland Island when their plane disappeared. The runway built for that landing was never used and is now reclaimed by sand and seabirds.