If you’ve been wondering which state is the best one to live in, you’re residing in it right now! An annual ranking of the best states in the nation was just unveiled, and Florida came in second overall.
A recent study by WalletHub compared each of the 50 states and analyzed their livability across five key dimensions: affordability, economy, education and health, quality of life and safety.
Each of these dimensions were given a total point value of 20 to reach a perfect score of 100, representing the most favorable living conditions. States with higher scores indicated better rankings, so at No. 2, Florida reached a total score of 59.82. Comparatively, Massachusetts’ score was 60.52, topping the list at No. 1.
According to Wallethub, the Sunshine State holds one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, at just 2.9%, along with the 6th most job opportunities. Moreover, it has the 7th-lowest tax rates and the 6th-highest median household income growth, adding that it is a great place to build and grow wealth.
Other highlights called attention to Florida’s leisurely destinations, such as a large number of restaurants, beaches, fitness centers and theaters. The report also praised the state for its safety, with the 13th-lowest violent crime rate and the 15th-lowest property crime rate.
However, Florida’s weakest score came at having the highest housing costs, which it ranked at No. 46. Sates with the lowest housing costs included Iowa, South and North Dakota and Kansas. We can’t exactly say we disagree, but can you really compare?
Suffice to say, we’re happy that Florida was ranked highly among a list of some really awesome states. It’s no wonder so many move here, as we’ve recently passed 23 million residents for the first time this year.
According to the ranking, here are the top 10 U.S. states to live in for 2024:
- Massachusetts
- Florida
- New Jersey
- Utah
- New Hampshire
- Idaho
- Pennsylvania
- Wisconsin
- New York
- Wyoming
You can find the full study here.