Which is the Best State to Live in America? List of Top 9 States to Live in the USA

The United States ranks third among the best countries to live in. Also, it has made its way into various global rankings due to its strong economy and high quality of life.

If you are someone who is living in or wants to shift to the USA, then many of the US states offer unique advantages. Some excel in education, while some excel in healthcare. But do you know which country is the best state to live in America?

This article guides readers through a journey which explores the most prominent states in the United States. The selection criteria include factors that influence the quality of living alongside financial affordability and general population health.

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Which is the Best State in the United States?

According to U.S. News, Utah has been ranked as the best state to live in America. This Land of Saints is widely spread over 84,898 sq. miles and has a total population of 3.5 million. The reason why this state has been chosen is that Utah demonstrates a strong performance in several key areas.

It secures a commendable #3 ranking in Crime & Corrections and a solid #4 in Education. The state also excels in Fiscal Stability and Health Care, achieving the top #1 position in both categories.

List of Top 9 States to Live in the USA

According to U.S. News, these are the top 9 states to consider living in in the United States.

#1. Utah

Source: U.S. News

• Area: 84,898 square miles
• GDP: $300.9 billion
• Percentage of College-Educated Population: 48.1%
• Population: 3,503,613
• Capital City: Salt Lake City
• Median Income: $42,385

Utah is one of the top-ranked states to live in in the United States, now for the third consecutive year. This is a result of its solid fiscal health, strong and diverse economy with a growing tech industry, and good infrastructure.

Additionally, Utah has good education and low crime; all of these help with the quality of life for residents, though some areas, such as healthcare and the natural environment, need improvement.

#2. New Hampshire

Source: newhampshire.com

• Area: 9,350 square miles
• GDP: $121.2 billion
• Percentage of College-Educated Population: 50.4%
• Population: 1,409,032
• Capital City: Concord
• Median Income: $51,450

New Hampshire constantly ranks high as a destination state. It is ranked in second place because of its strong economy and a high median income average with well-educated residents. New Hampshire has great public safety measures and a high degree of community.

New Hampshire has good environmental and infrastructure qualities, but its economic opportunities and the overall financial well-being of its residents make it a desirable place to live.

#3. Idaho

Source: NW Hosting

• Area: 83,569 square miles.
• GDP: $128.1 billion
• Percentage of College-Educated Population: 41.6%.
• Population: 2,001,619
• Capital City: Boise
• Median Income: $40,098

Idaho ranks in #3 place, primarily due to its strong fiscal stability and a solid economy where new residents and businesses continue to flock to the state. Idaho has a lower cost of living than many states, as well as access to a lot of natural beauty and outdoor recreation. 

While the state ranks average in healthcare and education, Idaho's affordability and quality of life overall are important parts of the state's overall ranking.

#4. Minnesota

Source: Visit The USA

• Area: 86,943 square miles
• GDP: $500.9 billion
• Percentage of College-Educated Population: 51.9%
• Population: 5,793,151
• Capital City: St. Paul
• Median Income: $50,279

Minnesota is ranked #4 on the list, which is because of its great education system and a solid, varied economy. The people here are well-educated, and there’s a big focus on health care, which helps create a nice quality of life. 

The state has good financial health and infrastructure, too, but it's the investment in people and community that makes Minnesota a great place to live.

#5. Nebraska

Source: Nebraska Realty

• Area: 77,347 square miles
• GDP: $185.4 billion
• Percentage of College-Educated Population: 46.7%
• Population: 2,005,465
• Capital City: Lincoln
• Median Income: $42,456

Nebraska ranks #5 because of its excellent fiscal health and its economy, both of which give its residents a stable experience. Nebraska has a substantial sense of community and a remarkably low cost of living. 

The quality of its natural environment and state infrastructure is solid; its financial health and a good community atmosphere are the determinants of its superior quality of life.

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#6. Florida

Source: HISTORY

• Area: 71,404 square miles
• GDP: $1.7 trillion
• Percentage of College-Educated Population: 45.0%
• Population: 23,372,215
• Capital City: Tallahassee
• Median Income: $41,459

Florida is rated as the #6 best state, primarily due to its strong economy and no state income taxes, which attract new residents and businesses. It has a variety of options for its citizens because of the economic benefits and lifestyle opportunities in the Sunshine State. 

The diverse natural environment throughout the state provides a mix of activities with more miles of coastline and sunshine than any other destination.

#7. Vermont

Source: Visit The USA

• Area: 9,615 square miles
• GDP: $45.7 billion
• Percentage of College-Educated Population: 52.5%
• Population: 648,493
• Capital City: Montpelier
• Median Income: $46,413

Vermont is ranked in 7th place because of its outstanding quality of life based on a shared sense of community and guaranteed environmental quality. Vermont has a well-educated population and a low crime rate, creating a very safe opportunity for the country to engage. 

Although its economy and infrastructure are modest at best, Vermont is a beautiful and isolated state full of cut-and-dried communities and has a quality of life appeal for many in the country.

#8. South Dakota

Source: U.S. News

• Area: 77,116 sq. mi.
• GDP: $75.2 Billion
• College Educated: 45.4%
• Population: 924,669
• Capital: Pierre
• Median Income: $41,959

South Dakota shines as a top-tier state to live in America, securing the #8 rank. It boasts the 2nd-best infrastructure and a commendable 5th position for its natural environment.

Furthermore, South Dakota excels in Education (#8), Fiscal Stability (#10), and Opportunity (#12). While Health Care ranks lower at #46, the state provides a strong foundation in crucial areas, making it an attractive place to move in.

#9. Massachusetts

Source: U.S. News

• Area: 10,554 SQ. MI.
• GDP: $780.7 Billion
• College Educated: 55.1%
• Population: 7,136,171
• Capital: Boston
• Median Income: $54,953

Massachusetts stands out as a premier state, ranking #9 in the United States, thanks to its excellent education system and thriving economy. With a high percentage of college-educated residents and a robust GDP, the state offers abundant opportunities. Its rich history, vibrant cultural scene centred in Boston, and access to quality healthcare further enhance its appeal.

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