California: Biggie Smalls of the Lower 48 (Except for Those Two Overachievers)
Let's talk about California, the state that invented sunshine, movie stars, and traffic jams that would make a snail reconsider its career path. But besides Hollywood and avocado toast, there's another thing California boasts about: its size.
But how big are we talking, exactly? Buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dive into a geographical showdown.
California vs. The Rest: A Tale of Square Miles
California clocks in at a whopping 163,695 square miles. That's a lot of land, folks. Like, enough space to fit two Floridas and still have room for a Sequoia National Park mosh pit.
California vs. Its Neighbours: Not Always the Biggest Kid on the Block
Now, hold on to your cowboy hats. California might be a heavyweight, but there are two other contenders in the ring:
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  Texas: This lone star state stretches out over a cool 268,596 square miles. Basically, California could fit comfortably inside Texas with enough space leftover for a good ol' fashioned chili cook-off. 
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  Alaska: Oh boy, Alaska. Where California is a chill surfer dude, Alaska is a yeti with a permanent case of the Mondays. At a monstrous 665,384 square miles, Alaska could swallow California whole and barely notice a bulge. 
But Wait, There's More! California: A Land of Many Climates
Despite not being the absolute biggest, California makes up for it with variety. You can squeeze in a beach vacation in San Diego, a ski trip in Lake Tahoe, and a redwood forest hike all in the same week. That's like having a tropical island, a winter wonderland, and a Jurassic Park nesting ground in your backyard.
So, is California Big? You Betcha!
Sure, California might not be the king of the size mountain, but it's definitely a top contender. Plus, with its diverse landscapes and, let's face it, epic weather, California offers more bang for your buck (or square mile) than most other states.
California: Not too shabby for a state that gave the world the Kardashians.