The United States is divided into 3,006 counties, which serve as important administrative regions within each state. Counties help manage local government functions, such as law enforcement, education, and public health. Each county has its own elected officials and operates under state laws. Counties vary in size and population, with some, like Los Angeles County in California, being densely populated, while others, like Loving County in Texas, have very few residents. The structure and responsibilities of counties can differ significantly from one state to another, reflecting the diverse needs of local communities.