U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best States Rankings evaluate all 50 states across eight key categories: health care, education, economy, infrastructure, opportunity, fiscal stability, crime and corrections, and natural environment. Using data from government and private sources, the rankings reveal which states excel and which fall short. Here’s a breakdown of the top and bottom performers, plus key insights.
Top 5 States
- Utah
- Why it ranks high: Utah leads in its strong economy, top-tier education, and fiscal stability. High job growth, low unemployment, and robust public schools boost its score. Its natural environment, with stunning parks, also helps.
- Standout stat: No. 1 in economy and education.
- New Hampshire
- Why it ranks high: Low crime rates, solid health care, and a strong economy make New Hampshire a standout. Its focus on opportunity and low poverty levels appeals to residents.
- Standout stat: No. 2 in crime and corrections.
- Nebraska
- Why it ranks high: Affordable living, good infrastructure, and a stable economy push Nebraska up. Its health care system and low unemployment are notable strengths.
- Standout stat: No. 3 in infrastructure.
- Minnesota
- Why it ranks high: Minnesota shines in health care and education, with high-quality schools and hospitals. Its opportunity metrics, like low income inequality, also score well.
- Standout stat: No. 1 in health care.
- Iowa
- Why it ranks high: Iowa’s affordability, strong education, and low crime rates make it a reliable choice. Its infrastructure, including broadband access, is a quiet strength.
- Standout stat: No. 4 in education.
Bottom 5 States
46. Louisiana
46. Louisiana
- Why it ranks low: High crime rates, weak health care, and a struggling economy drag Louisiana down. Poor educational outcomes and infrastructure issues don’t help.
- Standout stat: No. 49 in crime and corrections.
- Alaska
- Why it ranks low: Harsh weather, high living costs, and limited health care access hurt Alaska. Its economy is shaky, with declining job opportunities.
- Standout stat: No. 47 in health care.
- West Virginia
- Why it ranks low: Poor health care, high poverty, and a weak economy plague West Virginia. Aging infrastructure and low educational attainment add to its challenges.
- Standout stat: No. 50 in health care.
- Mississippi
- Why it ranks low: Mississippi struggles with high poverty, low education levels, and subpar health care. Crime rates and economic stagnation further its woes.
- Standout stat: No. 48 in economy.
- New Mexico
- Why it ranks last: High crime, poor education, and weak opportunity metrics sink New Mexico. Its economy and health care systems also lag significantly.
- Standout stat: No. 50 in crime and corrections.
Key Trends and Insights
- Health care and education matter most: Top states consistently score well in these areas, reflecting their impact on quality of life.
- Economy drives mobility: States like Utah and Nebraska benefit from job growth and affordability, attracting residents.
- Struggling states face systemic issues: Bottom-ranked states often grapple with high crime, poverty, and underfunded schools, creating cycles that are hard to break.
- Environment gains traction: States with clean air, water, and access to nature, like Utah, are increasingly valued.
How Rankings Are Calculated
U.S. News uses 71 metrics, weighted by their importance to residents’ lives. Health care and education carry the most weight, followed by the economy and opportunity. Data comes from sources like the Census Bureau, FBI, and Department of Education, ensuring objectivity.
U.S. News uses 71 metrics, weighted by their importance to residents’ lives. Health care and education carry the most weight, followed by the economy and opportunity. Data comes from sources like the Census Bureau, FBI, and Department of Education, ensuring objectivity.
Why It Matters
These rankings highlight where states succeed or struggle, guiding residents, policymakers, and businesses. For individuals, they can make decisions about where to live or work. For states, they spotlight areas for improvement, like boosting education or reducing crime.
These rankings highlight where states succeed or struggle, guiding residents, policymakers, and businesses. For individuals, they can make decisions about where to live or work. For states, they spotlight areas for improvement, like boosting education or reducing crime.
Utah’s blend of economic strength and livability makes it the top state for 2025, while New Mexico’s challenges place it last. Whether you’re eyeing a move or just curious, these rankings offer a data-driven snapshot of life across the U.S. For the full list, check U.S. News’ official report.