Meg is the 16-year-old eldest March sister. She works as a nursery governess for the wealthy King family to help support her impoverished parents and siblings. She possesses a sweet temperament and a natural beauty, but frequently struggles with her desire for luxury and fine clothing. As the oldest, she helps guide her younger sisters while preparing for her own entry into adult society.

Jo is the 15-year-old second eldest sister of the March family. She works as a companion to the irritable Aunt Josephine March, though she prefers hiding in the garret to read and write sensational stories. Fiercely independent and tomboyish, she openly chafes against the traditional gender expectations placed upon young women. She relies on her writing to provide a sense of purpose and financial support for her family.

Beth is the 13-year-old third March sister, nicknamed "Little Tranquility" by her father for her remarkably serene and gentle disposition. Extremely shy, she prefers to stay at home rather than attend school or parties, dedicating her time to household chores and caring for her collection of discarded dolls. Her greatest passion is playing the family's old, out-of-tune piano.

Amy is the 12-year-old youngest March sister, distinguished by her blonde curls, artistic talents, and acute concern for manners and social appearances. Nicknamed "Little Raphael" by her family, she attempts to cultivate an air of elegance despite her family's limited financial means. Her desire to fit in with her wealthier classmates frequently places her in embarrassing situations.

Mrs. March is the dedicated matriarch of the family, guiding her daughters through their transition into adulthood with unwavering moral principles and faith. She works hard to support her family while maintaining a charitable spirit toward those even less fortunate. She serves as her daughters' primary confidante, offering wisdom and sharing her own personal struggles to help them overcome their flaws.

Laurie is the wealthy, half-Italian teenager who lives next door to the Marches with his strict grandfather. Orphaned and largely isolated from people his own age, he immediately takes to the lively March family, especially Jo, who draws him out of his shell. He possesses a natural talent for music and a mischievous streak, though he genuinely desires companionship and a sense of belonging.

Mr. March is the philosophical, compassionate patriarch of the March family. He is away from home serving as a chaplain for the Union Army during the American Civil War. Having previously lost the family's wealth while trying to help a friend, he relies on his wife and daughters to maintain the household in his absence.

Mr. Laurence is the elderly, wealthy neighbor of the Marches and Laurie's grandfather. Though he presents a gruff, intimidating exterior, he harbors a generous and lonely heart. He strictly oversees his grandson's upbringing while quietly looking out for the March girls, taking a particular interest in Beth, who reminds him of his late granddaughter.

John Brooke is Laurie's sensible, hardworking, and honest tutor. As a young man with little money and no family of his own, he approaches his duties diligently while nursing a quiet admiration for the eldest March sister. He is observant and protective, frequently demonstrating his character through acts of service to the March family.

Friedrich Bhaer is a nearly 40-year-old German professor from Berlin who moves to the United States to support his orphaned nephews. Working humbly as a language teacher, he possesses a kind, fatherly nature that endears him to the children in his boarding house. He forms a close intellectual and emotional bond with Jo March, gently challenging her perspectives on literature and morality.

Aunt March is the wealthy, elderly aunt of Mr. March who lives in a large estate filled with books and fine things. Because she has no children, she expects her nieces to attend to her, specifically employing Jo as her daily companion. Though she is strict, particular, and quick to criticize the family's poverty, she cares for the March girls and wishes to see them secure advantageous positions in society.

Hannah is the loyal servant of the March household. She has been with the family since their earlier, more prosperous days and remains a steadfast presence despite their current poverty. She manages the kitchen, enforces practical household rules, and acts as an informal guardian when Marmee is away.

The Hummels are an impoverished family of German immigrants living near the Marches. They suffer from severe lack of food, heat, and basic necessities, relying on the charity of Mrs. March and her daughters to survive the harsh winter. Their vulnerability exposes the March sisters to the harsh realities of extreme poverty and illness.

The Vaughns are aristocratic British friends of Laurie, consisting of Kate, twins Fred and Frank, and Grace. They possess a polished and wealthy upbringing that highlights the socioeconomic differences between themselves and the Marches, though they eventually warm to the American girls' lively manners.

The Moffats are a highly affluent but superficial family in the Marches' social circle. They enjoy a life of opulence, fine clothes, and frequent parties. Their focus on appearances and gossip frequently makes their poorer guests feel inadequate or judged.

Sallie Gardiner is a wealthy friend of Meg March from their youth. She has the resources to enjoy the luxuries and fashions that Meg frequently covets. Despite the stark contrast in their economic situations, she maintains a friendly connection with the March family.