A recent study by the gambling site CanadaCasino has assessed the likelihood of each US state surviving a hypothetical zombie apocalypse. The findings indicate that densely populated areas, such as New Jersey and New York, rank among the least prepared for such a scenario.
The study evaluated states based on six key metrics: population density, percentage of water area, number of community hospitals, number of airports, number of fishing, hunting, and trapping stores, and the presence of military bases. Each state was given an apocalypse readiness score out of ten. This unique approach aimed to quantify preparedness for an event that, while fictional, has captured public imagination. According to a 2023 study, more than one in ten Americans believe a zombie outbreak is inevitable, with over half of them anticipating it within the next 30 years.
New Jersey emerged as the least prepared state, earning a score of just 1.66. The state’s high population density, with 1,308 people per square mile, significantly contributes to its vulnerability. Additionally, New Jersey has only 0.9 airports, 2.2 hunting stores, and 0.8 hospitals per 100,000 people, further diminishing its chances for survival.
Following New Jersey, Connecticut ranked second with a score of 2.15. Both Massachusetts and Pennsylvania tied for third place with a score of 2.57. Surprisingly, California, the most populous state with nearly 40 million residents, ranked fourth with a score of 2.6, just ahead of New York at 2.61.
Despite New York’s reputation for resilience, the study highlighted several factors that undermine its survival prospects. The Empire State has 0.8 community hospitals, 1.7 airports, and 3.0 hunting stores per 100,000 people. Interestingly, New York does have a relatively high percentage of water coverage at 13.6%, which could offer some advantages in a crisis.
In contrast, Alaska topped the list as the most favorable state for surviving a zombie apocalypse, achieving a readiness score of 7.89. With an extremely low population density of just one person per square mile, Alaska offers vast open spaces that could help residents avoid infection. Additionally, it boasts the highest number of airports, with 78.5 per 100,000 people, facilitating both escape and access to essential supplies.
Following Alaska, Maine ranked second with a score of 5.31. The state’s abundance of hunting and fishing stores, which stands at 69.6 per 100,000 people, positions it as a strong contender for survival. Maine also benefits from a reasonable number of airports and significant water coverage at 12.8%.
The report concluded with South Dakota (score: 5.17), Montana (score: 4.93), and North Dakota (score: 4.79) rounding out the top three states for apocalypse preparedness.
While a zombie apocalypse may seem like a far-fetched scenario, the study serves as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness, especially in densely populated regions where resources may be limited.
