On this US map, what do the numbers on each state actually represent?

[Massageman]

What do the numbers mean for each state?

Here's a map of the United States. Each state has a number associated with it. But, to what do the numbers refer? Answer to be revealed in a couple of days.

Updates

2 d

Think in terms of "dollars per - - - - - - - -"

Updates

2 d

Ok, here it is. These are 2022 stats, the last year where there is complete information for the whole country. These costs represent- allegedly- the annual cost of keeping an inmate in prison for one year. ( Kind makes you wonder what the accommodations are in Massachusetts. ) Thank you to everyone who took a shot at this.

[AviatorTom]

I'm gonna think outside the box and guess that this is the number of people who died from COVID-19 during the pandemic

[Massageman]

Thanks for the guess. It's something else, though.

[AviatorTom]

@Massageman Ok, based on your update, let me guess it's each state's GDP per square mile of the state's area? That would explain why a wealthy small state like Massachusetts has such a high number, while an economic powerhouse like California (wealthier than all but 6 of the world's countries) also has a high number, and while poor states like Arkansas and Mississippi have lower numbers.

[AviatorTom]

@Massageman Per your second update, all I can say is... WOW! 😮

[SeekerOfTruth007]

The income of the average prostitute per year?

[Massageman]

Nice thought , but not quite.

[SeekerOfTruth007]

Now that you updated this, I know why Louisiana has such a low rate. It's because the worst inmates are shipped to Angola and actually are forced to work for a living.

In other states, they put murderers and rapists in condos and give them 3 free hot meals and television and a weight room and free education and free everything else.

It almost makes me want to move to California and commit a crime so I can get some free medical care. (half joking, half serious)

[Massageman]

(on the thought of "substitute living" )- a friend of ours said that she could live more cheaply by getting the smallest stateroom on the longest cruises and just live on a ship, instead of getting a smaller house or living in a condo or apartment. Room? yup, and someone cleans it for you!! Food? all you want, whenever you want it. Linen service? Yup. Medical care? Doc on board. Pool? Exercise center? Entertainment? all included. And you wouldn't have to run the risk of being released without bail as might happen in CA.

[exitseven]

how much it costs to buy a house.

[Massageman]

Thanks for the effort. It has to do with something else, however.

[Massageman]

But, yes, the numbers DO represent dollars!!!

[beefcakebradybatson]

Per capita income.

[Massageman]

Thanks for the reply. I wish it did, but it isn't.