Best States to live in 2020: Top 10 Most Comfortable States. Overall Report with Facts And Statistics
Best States to live in 2020: Top 10 Most Comfortable States. Overall Report with Facts And Statistics
Best States to live in 2020: Top 10 Most Comfortable States. Overall Report with Facts And Statistics
Debra Broxton
August 17, 2020
To learn the real data on the safety and quality of life in the state where you live, this article is worth noticing. The decision to live anywhere is personal and cannot be affected externally; however, as things change, families with children or elderly relatives may seek a better life quality and a safer environment. The figures are somewhat disappointing, though.
Our team has researched to figure out the actual information, keeping in mind various factors. As the figures date back in 2019, they include the latest census data and provide up-to-date info.
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Top 50 States’ Comparison
Take a look at the comprehensive table of the best statistics our team gathered for this guide. Below, find 50 best states in terms of quality of life, categorized by different key metrics. Get acquainted with the factors and keep them in mind when choosing a place to live or move somewhere in the USA.
Population density
Median income
Median Home value
Violent crime
Jobless rate
Bachelors degree
Health outcomes
Poverty rate
Air incidents
Poor roads
Virginia
8,571,946
$71,535
$266,300
376
2,6%
37,6%
26
10,8%
35
2,7%
Massachusetts
6,939,373
$77,385
$410,200
756
2,9%
42,1%
7
10,7%
42
15,4%
New Hampshire
1,363,852
$73,381
$281,600
317
2,6%
36,0%
9
7,8%
10
4,8%
Utah
3,221,610
$68,358
$348,000
357
2,5%
32,5%
10
10,9%
0
2,4%
New Jersey
8,922,547
$80,088
$330,000
342
3,2%
38,1%
18
10,5%
38
16,8%
Connecticut
3,567,871
$74,168
$245,000
368
3,6%
38,4%
5
9,8%
22
6,2%
Colorado
5,770,545
$69,117
$385,200
713
2,6%
39,4%
3
11,3%
72
5,9%
Hawaii
1,416,589
$77,765
$622,700
1,200
2,7%
32,0%
2
10,1%
5
16,1%
Vermont
627,180
$57,513
$210,700
29
2,2%
36,8%
17
10,9%
0
3,5%
Minnesota
5,655,925
$68,388
$240,800
920
3,2%
34,8%
1
10,2%
37
4,1%
North Dakota
760,900
$61,843
$209,600
252
2,5%
28,9%
20
10,7%
0
2,2%
Maryland
6,062,917
$80,776
$292,300
5,146
3,6%
39,0%
16
9,5%
9
9,2%
Washington
7,666,343
$70,979
$395,000
5,146
4,5%
34,5%
4
12,0%
15
10,7%
Idaho
1,790,182
$52,225
$275,100
56
2,9%
26,8%
27
14,2%
4
2,8%
California
39,747,267
$71,805
$552,100
696
3,9%
32,6%
8
14,8%
118
16,9%
Delaware
975,033
$62,852
$237,200
8
3,7%
31,0%
19
11,8%
11
3,9%
New York
19,491,339
$64,894
$305,800
4,219
4,0%
35,3%
14
14,7%
10
13,4%
Oregon
4,245,901
$60,212
$351,700
553
4,1%
32,3%
29
14,6%
12
3,1%
Maine
1,342,097
$56,277
$237,100
11
2,8%
30,3%
15
12,5%
0
7,3%
Nebraska
1,940,919
$59,970
$170,100
884
3,1%
30,6%
24
11,6%
0
6,4%
Rhode Island
1,056,738
$63,870
$285,500
425
3,6%
33,0%
11
12,9%
11
24,6%
Wisconsin
5,832,661
$59,305
$192,900
759
3,3%
29,0%
13
12,0%
11
11,1%
South Dakota
892,631
$56521
$195,700
232
3,0%
27,8%
32
13,4%
1
4,6%
Montana
1,074,532
$53,386
$241,700
269
3,4%
30,7%
22
14,0%
6
3,5%
Wyoming
572,381
$60,434
$237,100
23
3,8%
26,7%
6
10,9%
7
1,9%
Florida
21,646,155
$52,594
$238,600
534
3,2%
28,5%
25
15,1%
106
1,3%
Iowa
3,167,997
$58,570
$146,900
232
2,6%
27,7%
34
11,6%
38
7,5%
Kansas
2,910,931
$56,422
$141,500
734
3,1%
32,3%
38
12,4%
47
1,3%
Alaska
735,720
$73,181
$326,300
3,804
6.2%
29,0%
12
9,9%
44
18,7%
Illinois
12,700,381
$62,992
$184,000
1,937
3,9%
33,4%
33
13,2%
103
6,9%
Georgia
10,627,767
$56,183
$195,500
754
3,4%
29,9%
46
16,5%
93
2,8%
Texas
29,087,070
$59,206
$200,100
1,162
3,4%
28,7%
29
15,7%
176
5,5%
South Carolina
5,147,111
$50,570
$171,800
174
2,6%
27,0%
41
16,2%
61
4,4%
North Carolina
10,497,741
$52,752
$191,400
0
4,0%
29,9%
37
15,7%
107
3,3%
Missouri
6,147,861
$53,578
$163,700
1,591
3,1%
28,2%
40
14,2%
0
2,2%
Nevada
3,087,025
$58,003
$292,900
1,826
4,1%
23,7%
28
14,0%
10
1,3%
Michigan
10,020,472
$54,909
$154,700
1,165
4,1%
28,1%
39
15,2%
108
7,6%
Arizona
7,275,070
$56,581
$258,700
2,906
4,8%
28,4%
23
16,6%
0
3,1%
Indiana
6,718,616
$54,181
$148,500
1,675
3,2%
25,3%
36
14,1%
309
3,4%
Pennsylvania
12,813,969
$59,195
$177,500
3,572
4,2%
30,1%
21
12,7%
280
7,1%
New Mexico
2,096,034
$46,744
$196,300
194
4,8%
26,9%
31
20,2%
3
3,0%
Tennessee
6,833,793
$51,340
$172,000
2,028
3,4%
26,1%
35
16,3%
78
2,4%
Ohio
11,718,568
$54,021
$143,300
1,400
4,2%
27,2%
47
14,5%
193
5,8%
Alabama
4,898,246
$48,123
$135,500
903
2,8%
24,5%
44
17,5%
23
2,1%
Oklahoma
3,948,950
$50,051
$125,800
1,230
3,3%
24,8%
49
15,7%
81
5,3%
Mississippi
2,987,895
$43,529
$129,700
66
5,5%
21,3%
48
20,8%
37
6,0%
Kentucky
4,484,047
$48,375
$149,300
491
4,3%
23,2%
42
17,7%
11
2,3%
West Virginia
1,791,951
$43,469
$99,700
35
4.8%
19,9%
43
17,3%
11
4,8%
Arkansas
3,026,412
$45,869
$129,800
1,326
3,5%
22,0%
44
17,6%
32
6,3%
Louisiana
4,652,581
$49,973
$147,900
903
4,5%
23,4%
50
19,0%
5
9,1%
Our Method To Find Out The Best Places For Life in the US
To do so, our specialists amass information received from reliable resources. They turn to such entities as the FBI and the U.S. Labour Dept, not to mention such organizations as the EPA ( Environmental Protection Agency ) and the UHF ( United Health Foundation ). Having the data pulled, they go forward to distinguish the most crucial factors to use as key metrics.
Top 10 Criteria In The Base Of Our Rankings For Every State
Medical Care (medical policies, common health concerns, ecology, condition of hospitals)
Poverty Index, %
Environmental Factors (water and air, waste and pollution )
Infrastructural Development (buildings and roads, transport and commuting)
Population, residents per square mile
The more, the better. This seems to be a universal rule for several states enlisted in our guide, which has the highest population figures. This implies that more people occupy the territory of the state. This factor is essential to consider if one prefers broad, people-free areas, ensuring the safety of life in the area. Surprisingly, the higher the population is, the safer is life, statistics demonstrate.
Income, $ (the richer, the safer)
WIth well-off neighbors around, one can feel safer than in a place with a high poverty rate. The residents’ average income is a point to focus on to get a broader view of the situation in the state, the choice of accommodation, kind of schools and clinics in the area.
Median Home Value Index, $
Such things as proper education, low crime level, and high opportunities to get a well-paid job are usually found in places where real estate costs are higher. Some of the states have a bustling estate market now and provide a variety of options.
Criminal Side (look for the lowest rates)
Our analysts scrutinized information about each of the 50 states and then used more detailed metrics to extract the most precise results.They added the violent crime rates, robberies, crimes concerning transport, etc., based on the statistical research provided by the FBA and other governmental structures. The figures obtained are of the utmost accuracy.
Rate of Unemployment, %
Those who search for a perfect state to live should consider those with the lowest unemployment rate. Unemployment populations in America range from 2.2%-6.2%, depending on the state. The Bureau of Labour Statistics kindly provided us with this info about the latest updates. The high unemployment rate is a direct sign of faulty economic policies or inadequate health care systems and low-quality living conditions.
Education
In this section, our specialists checked the population of Bachelor and higher degree holders in each state. To climb the career ladder successfully, one must have a degree these days. With the education level dangling close to the bottom line, it might get quite problematic to find suitable job options, and becoming unemployed might be a matter of time only.
Medicine
The factor of healthcare is hard to overlook. The figures concerning medical rates differ by state. They may depend on such factors as people’s attitudes, approaches to policies, medical care, average health rates of the residents, including both physical and mental health metrics. The United Health Foundation provided us with up-to-date info on the subject.
Poverty Rate, % (it better be lower)
Consulted with the World Population Review, our analysts found out the highest and the lowest average poverty rates. Included in our top are ten most affluent states of the country, showing perfect housing conditions, excellent educational institutions, and utmost health.
Environmental Rate
The state of the environment is a vital factor to take into consideration. The trends from the Environmental Protection Agency demonstrate that residents of some states are exposed to a high environmental risk caused by contamination of natural resources and other kinds of pollution. Our specialists considered the following:
Air (number of violating facilities)
Water to drink (condition of public water systems)
Dangerous Waste (facilities with violations)
Pesticides (violations of worker protection standards)
Other water facilities (non-complying facilities)
Infrastructure Rate
The knowledge of the state of infrastructure in the state is vital for modern people in America. The factors have a significant influence on lives and their quality. Our specialists consulted with the Federal Highway Administration to make the ranking perfect, and the following aspects were concerned:
Terrible road condition, % (the lower the mark, the better)
Structurally Deficient Bridge, % (the same here)
Highway Spending By Vehicle, $ (look for the lowest)
Time spent on commuting, minutes (the faster, the better)
Our analysts scrutinized each of the factors to provide a full overview of the best states to live in the USA. Reports compiled, every state was put on the list, and each of them received 0-5 marks for each factor considered.
Of course, it was time-consuming, but the result made up for it entirely because each state was considered thoroughly, every state’s info was summed up and demonstrated on our spreadsheet. A maximum possible amount is 50 points. Have a look at what our team has to show to our readers.
10 Best States For Life in the USA
Our team considered each state’s score, based on our carefully chosen metrics, to get and provide our readers with the full picture. Among the best and safest states across the USA, these 10 hit the chart: Virginia, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Utah, New Jersey, Connecticut, Colorado, Hawaii, Vermont, and Minnesota. Familiarize yourself with more detailed data, including demographic rates, criminal situations, figures in poverty, and unemployment.
Virginia
Virginia is often referred to as a state for lovers, with its natural beauty to motivate such ideas. Its bays and mountains, lengthy coastlines full of beautiful beaches, it is the guarantee that a nature-lover will surely appreciate the state. Geographically, the state is an island, covered in forests by 50%, and it takes only a little time to drive to the US capital, DC. Should a family look for a secure place to live and breed, they surely need to consider Virginia.
Population
Income
Home Value
Crime
Unemployment
Education
Medicine
Poverty
Environment
Infrastructure
206.7
Density
With 206.7 of total density, the state has its most populated metropolitans, such as Fairfax, for instance, where more than one million people are residing. The Eastern part of Virginia is the most populated area.
The statistic shows that most households with a single or a dual model of earning are quite well off in the state. Farming and agriculture are the core drivers of economic growth. Arlington, where the Pentagon and the Department of Defence are situated, is in Virginia, too.
$1.700
Average price of rent
In the past year, the median property cost rose by 4.7%. The market of real estate in Virginia is increasingly expanding, with prospects to follow the trend in 2021. The average price of rent is $1.700 monthly.
305
Robberies and burglaries
As to the crime rate, it has been falling in Virginia lately, to make the state hit the top of our rankings. However, robberies and burglaries still occur there, being 96 and 305 cases a year accordingly, last year stats reveal. The homicide level is 12 lowest across the country, and 233 cases of aggravated assault were reported in the previous year, which is worrisome but still better than anywhere else in the US.
900000
Jobs
The state keeps the fourth place in the rankings concerning the rate of the jobless population. Virginia can provide 900000 jobs in governmental spheres, CIA, Defence Department, National Science Foundation, and the Patent and Trademark Office. The densest population of workers in technology-oriented employment is found in the area.
16.1%
People who have earned a Ph.D
The amount of people with a bachelor’s degree or higher is ample in Virginia, compared to most other states, and it ranks one of the top 10 best countries in terms of education. 16.1% of the state’s people can boast Ph.D.’s and doctor’s degrees.
Overall, the health and wellness in Virginia are on a high level; however, the care people get in clinics is a subject of concern. Compared to Massachusetts, with its progress in the medical field, Virginia lags a little behind, but environmental and social initiatives abound in the state.
20%
Beyond the poverty line
The rate of poverty among men amounts to 10%, stats show, and the figure in women is 12%. Beyond the poverty line, there are 20% of the Black population; 15% is the figure in Hispanics. The whites’ poverty rate is 8.46%.
In terms of environmental conditions, the state ranks in the very middle of the race: water quality is just excellent for drinking, the quality of air is average; both factors need improvement, though. The pesticide use is between reference numbers, and there are Nno too-negative reports.
2.7%
Bridge constructions need revision
This category needs significant improvement in Virginia with its terrible highways and roads: 2.7% of roads need a boost in quality, and 2.7% of bridge constructions need revision. To get to work, a state resident spends 28.6 minutes, which is the eighth-longest across the country.
Massachusetts
The state expands over the territory of 10,565 square miles, but it is not very densely populated. Adorned by its picturesque bays and riversides, the state takes pride in bustling big cities, high hills, inviting coastlines, and the Cape Cod peninsula to crown it all.
All these and other factors mentioned below make the state one of the best in our rankings.
Population
Income
Home Value
Crime
Unemployment
Education
Medicine
Poverty
Environment
Infrastructure
6,902,149
People
With the 15th-largest population across the country, amounting to 840 square miles, Massachusetts comprises highly-populated giants, such as Somerville, Chelsea, Allston, Brighton, and Boston. The latter one, for example, accommodates nearly 6,902,149 people.
An average household’s income in the state makes it an inviting place to move and live in. The inflation rate ias considered in the calculations.
4%
Average increase per annum
The figure is relatively high, and it keeps increasing. The average increase nowadays amounts to 4% per annum, and further growth is projected in 2021.
422
Robberies and burglaries
As to the criminal activity in the state, there were 215 cases of robbery and 422 cases of burglary, last year’s stats show. The western part, namely, the Springfield Metropolitan area, is at most unrest. An ample amount of crime-related cases arise in cities like Holyoke, North Adams, and Springfield. Let alone Boston, which is far from becoming a truly safe place.
The rates in the state are more or less reasonable and make it the twelfth-lowest across the US. Both factors, the job availability and population capable of work, have been considered in our top.
The amount of the educated population in Massachusetts is average on a country scale. Some college towns are situated there, but it seems to contribute to the overall education of the state very scarcely.
10
Top
It is of the highest quality among the top 10 states in terms of clinical care and the overall wellbeing and health condition of the population. The state can boast six social and environmental reports picturing Massachusetts one of the best places to live in America. And the figures concern people of different age equally.
Quite traditionally, for the US, the biggest parts of the population struggling to find food, job, and shelters are predominantly Hispanics and Native Americans. The figures vary inconsiderably in men and women.
The situation with toxic waste in Massachusetts is of high priority for policymakers as the state reports severe violations. The quality of water, however, is quite high. Life in Massachusetts can be exposed to various health risks concerning the state of the environment.
15.40%
Poor quality roads
The percentage of poor quality roads is 15.40%; the figure in Deficient Bridge is 9.20%.
New Hampshire
Located in New England, the state hits the tops of our list, next to Massachusetts and Vermont. And the state is quite notable, with its close situation near Canada and the abundance of French-Canadians who amount for one-fourth of the overall population.
Population
Income
Home Value
Crime
Unemployment
Education
Medicine
Poverty
Environment
Infrastructure
147
Density rate
In terms of area and population, the state ranks the fifth and the tenth, accordingly. Therefore, people of the state feel more freedom and space. With 147 in the density rate, the state has a majority of the white population. The parts close to Massachusetts are the most populated.
61,000
Workplaces
Earning good money in the state seems to be simple with the medicine and financial focus of economic policies. There are also 61,000 workplaces in governmental institutions. Most of the residents of the state are employed in the private sector. As a perk, the state boasts the percentage of millionaires that is the eighth-highest in the US.
$1,750
Monthly is a median rent
The state’s residents report a considerably high median income, which fuels the estate market, which is now bustling in New Hampshire. Last year the cost of property rose by 3.7%, with projections to increase by 2.9% next year. $1,750 monthly is a median rent.
317
Violent crimes
Last year, the police in the state reported 317 violent crimes committed, demonstrating the safety of life there, compared to other states in the USA. To be added to the statistics, 65 robberies occurred in the state, while New Jersey, for instance, had 126, and Massachusetts, 215.
Nearly equal to that of Colorado and Virginia, New Hampshire’s rate of unemployment is pretty low. With many residents having higher education, the state houses Dartmouth College, Franklin Pierce University, and more. It enables the residents to look for furthering their education and find well-paid jobs there.
93%
Of the residents finish high-schools
The vast number of people having a Bachelor’s degree or higher makes the state hit the top of our rankings concerning education. 93% of the residents finish high-schools; 36% pursue their education in colleges; 13.8% have a Master’s Ph.D.
The overall wellness and health factors are among the best across the country. The amount of negative reports concerning behavior or clinical care is relatively low, standing at six reports last year. Such policies as those related to vaccination and medical insurance need reconsideration.
11000
of poor people in the state
Being one of the most well-off states in the US, New Hampshire still has problems to solve: 7% of men and 8% of women are abysmal, according to statistics. Again, the Black and Hispanic communities major in the stats, with 18.4% and 18.3% accordingly. The two groups amount to nearly 11000 of poor people in the state.
In terms of environment, the state hits the tops of our shortlist. Very few water and waste quality violations have been detected and reported, which is good news for the locals. Nevertheless, the problem is in drinking water, which quality has room for improvement.
$422
Highways charge drivers per annum
The deficient bridges in the state amount to 9%; roads in an inappropriate condition, 4.8%. Highways charge drivers around $422 per annum, averagely. A commuter spends nearly 27.3 minutes a day, on average.
Utah
The state, which joined the country after 44 other states, has become the 13th biggest in the USA. It touches the state Arizona in four places and borders New Mexico and Wyoming, which adds to the state’s overall attraction for tourists; among the other touristic must-sees, there are five large national parks and picturesque natural beauties. The state also drew the world’s curiosity while hosting the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City in 2002.
Population
Income
Home Value
Crime
Unemployment
Education
Medicine
Poverty
Environment
Infrastructure
36.53
Residents by square mile
Utah’s density of population amounts to only 36.53 residents by square mile. Its position in the rating of populous states is far at the back, the 30th, Salt Lake City being its most populous city. In the south-west, the population density is relatively low.
In Utah, an average household earns slightly more than a median USA household, and the figure keeps close by the growing trend. Web development, marketing, and jobs in analytics predominate in the state.
$1,525
The average monthly rent payment
Last year saw a 6.7% increase in Utah’s average home value, and the market is overwhelmed at the moment with hot sales and inviting prices. The rise, analysts say, will grow more into 2021 and will amount to nearly 5%. The average monthly rent payment is as large as $1,525.
357
Violent crimes
In terms of safety, the state ranks 17th across the country. Last year 357 violent actions were registered, with three homicides and 67 acts of sexual aggression. The overall figures are far behind the average in the USA.
With Dakota, Utah boasts a low unemployment rate of 2.5% annually, Vermont being ever so slightly ahead. The job fields like analytics, soft and Web development, and vet tech are among the most promising and growing in Utah. Analysts consider these areas to increase by 150% - 180% within five years if the future.
32%
Bachelor’s degrees
Bachelor’s degrees have been obtained by nearly 32% of Utah’s residents. 11% of these pursue their education and major to get a Master’s degree. Above all, the overwhelming majority of the residents have a high school diploma. The economy of the state is among the fastest-growing.
17
Negative reports
Utah is recommended to live in for people taking good care of their health and setting plans for a safe and secure future in a pleasant and picturesque place. The levels of the medical care system are also to be considered for the matter. The number of the last year’s negative reports were behavioral and a few, 17, along with community and environment violation, one each. And also, the clean, refreshing air in Utah adds to the overall picture.
29,7%
Native Americans
While having the highest share of young people across the country (10.2% in men and 11.8 in women), Utah’s poverty rate is among the highest, with Native Americans at 29,7%, and Blacks at 26.6%.
The environment in Utah varies, with its high mountains changing salty lakes, its across-the-country figure is among the tops. The quality of air is exceptional, and pesticides are insufficient, but the drinking water problem still exists. It isn’t the worst in the country, though, but it could have been cleaner, the residents hope.
2.2%
Lowest percentage of deficiency
Roads and overall infrastructural development levels are top-rated; the bridges are mostly sustainable, with the country’s lowest percentage of deficiency of 2.2%. Streets’ condition is the ninth-lowest in the US, and median commuters get to work in just 22 minutes.
New Jersey
With New York in the north, Philadelphia, south, and a broad swath of coastline full of beaches in the east, New Jersey sits comfortably and cozily in the proximity to Baltimore and Washington. New Jersey is not a sizable state, being 170 miles long and only 70 miles wide; however, the territory comprises such renowned water reservoirs as Hudson Palisades, the Jersey Shore, and the Delaware Gap, among others.
Population
Income
Home Value
Crime
Unemployment
Education
Medicine
Poverty
Environment
Infrastructure
1,210.10
Residents by square mile
The population density in New Jersey is leading in the USA, with 1,210.10 residents a square mile. As to the number of the residents, New Jersey holds the 11th place across the US, despite its small size. Metropolitan areas are easily accessible as an ample part of the population is scattered across suburbs and rural areas.
A median family in New Hersey is the third across the country in terms of annual earnings. The state can boast the highest density of millionaire population, with around 9% of the residents making it up to ta million dollars and more every year. Construction, food service, education, and medicine are the work areas attracting the most people in New Jersey.
1.7%
The real estate market will grow by
In the current year, the median home value has seen an upward trend of 2.3% in New Jersey. The real estate market is white-hot now, and is set to have grown by 1.7% in 2021, experts claim.
126
Acts of robbery
Criminal activity in New Jersey is quite ample; the stats showed 126 acts of robbery and 222 acts of burglary last year. To add to the terrifying figures, in Newark, seemingly the most dangerous city of the state, aggravated assaults numbered 451 in 2019. Such cities as the southern Camden and the northern Elizabeth follow the trend in increased criminal activity.
300,000
Residents unable to find a job
Nearly the same figures, as shown by Florida, Indiana, and Minnesota, New Jersey holds the 19th place in terms of the unemployment rate, with around 300,000 residents unable to find a job in the state.
89%
Of the residents studied in high schools
As to these critical metrics, New Jersey boasts the highest number of people with a Bachelor’s degree, around 40%. 89% of the residents studied in high schools; 14.7% decided to pursue their education by obtaining Master’s degrees, and Ph.D’s.
Despite the expectations of many Americans, statistics prove that New Jersey’s health and wellness figures are just fine. While, yes, the state is commonly associated with careless driving, outcomes in behavior are satisfactory, as well as community servicing and clinical care. The policy of the state seems to be the place in need of improvement.
27.27%
Native Americans
The poverty figures involve 9.65% of men and 11.65% of women in New Jersey. Included in the aggravating stats are Islanders and Native Americans, with 27.27% and 23.18% accordingly. 6.28% is the result of the whites and other ethnic groups, which is the lowest among others.
Environmental development should be the focal point of New Jersey’s policy-makers. Here, air and drinking water quality and the situation with dangerous waste need to be considerably improved. In terms of pesticide violations, the state needs to have it reduced. The average figures are all good, but some particular cases are worrisome.
16%
Of roads are in a terrible condition
Driving a car in New Jersey can be tough and challenging, a well-known fact to all Americans. Why? The answer is annoying and straightforward: 16% of roads are in a terrible condition, and 8.1% of bridges need upgrade or renovation. 32.1 minute is the average time spent by commuters in New Jersey.
Connecticut
Often united in grouping with New York and New Jersey, and bordering with Rhode Island and Massachusetts, Connecticut is widely called a ‘Constitution State’, which obtained its name in 1787 after the Great Compromise.
Population
Income
Home Value
Crime
Unemployment
Education
Medicine
Poverty
Environment
Infrastructure
739
Residents by square mile
Connecticut has a low density of population, only 739 by a square mile. The Southwest of the state is mostly populated, as well as the center, with cities like Bridgeport, Hartford, and New Haven. Around 75% of the population is predominantly white; however, the number of people of foreign origin increases.
In terms of the average household’s income, the state is among the country’s leaders, having a solid median figure and the majority of families of the middle class. The most wanted jobs in Connecticut are finance and insurance services; hence, the high figures.
$1.800
High average monthly rate
Risen by 1.2% last year, not the amplest increase, the home value is expected to grow into 2021, but with a slower pace of 0.9%. The state has a pretty high average monthly rate of $1.800.
368
Acts of violence
Connecticut saw 368 acts of violence last year, along with five homicides and 233 assaults; however, the figures are low, compared to other states. Considering the whole of America, the state holds the 11th place with the lowest percentage of burglaries.
29th
Ranked as to unemployment rates
Ranked the 29th as to unemployment rates, the state’s situation with the jobless is close to that in Maryland and Rhode Island (at 3.6%), and falls far behind that of Vermont, which holds the leading position with 2.2%. Experts hope the stats will improve in the future. The resident mostly chose jobs in nursing, retail, and legal areas.
17%
Of the residents have them mentioned in their CV’s
Beyond 90% of Connecticut population studied in high schools, our stats revealed. Bachelor’s degree is in the employ of roughly 40%, a figure rarely seen in the country. As to the more advanced degrees, 17% of the residents have them mentioned in their CV’s.
3rd
Place across the country
Health and wellness in Connecticut are exceptional. It hits the 3rd place across the country in terms of these factors, as well as clinical care, health, and behavioral reports. Policy, community, and environment violations are still a frequent occurrence in the state. The residents, keen on health-improving practices, still face troubles when it comes to public services.
25%
Pacific Islanders
Poverty in the state ranks among the lowest in the country, encompassing 9% of men and 10% of women without jobs. Environment. Among the most impoverished races in the state, Pacific Islanders are predominant, amounting to nearly 25% of the population.
138
Reports in the former this year
Holding the 20th position nation-wide in terms of environment, its pesticide violations standing at a zero point, the state needs to take measures to improve its picture in hazardous waste and water to drink. The state has seen 138 reports in the former this year, and 1050 in the latter.
$446
Are paid averagely by drivers for highway use
Figures in infrastructure and stability are quite average across the country: they are stable and gradually improving. The condition of highways still needs thorough consideration and renovation; $446 are paid averagely by drivers for highway use; 26.4 minutes is the median time for commuting in the state; nearly 6% of roads demand renovation.
Colorado
Among the attractions of Colorado, one should mention the abundance of green territories and mountains granting fresh air and areas for outdoor activities to the residents. The world’s renowned Rocky Mountains, the Colorado River and Plateau, and the Great Plains are a beloved spot for tourists and the locals. Sharing a border with Nebraska, Oklahoma, Kansas, New Mexico, Wyoming, Arizona, and Utah, the state has a variable climate: from Mediterranian and subtropical to desertified areas, cold and dry.
Population
Income
Home Value
Crime
Unemployment
Education
Medicine
Poverty
Environment
Infrastructure
52
Residents by square mile
Metropolitan areas of the state entice the majority of the population. The density is near 52 residents per square mile, making the state 37th across the country in terms of the density. The central area is the most populous here, with cities like Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Denver in the lead.
12th
Nationwide
The median household’s income in the state is the 12th nationwide. The government and the US Air Force Academy ensure the economy of the state. It is also a great place to do business, as such companies as Coors and Samsonite have demonstrated.
$2000
A renter has to splurge a monthly payment literally.
The real estate market in the state is quite stable. The value rose by 4% last year and is expected to grow by 2% next year. A renter has to splurge a $2000 monthly payment literally.
608
Burglaries
With the reputation of the most dangerous place in the US, Colorado reported 148 cases of robbery and 608 burglaries and nearly 700 aggravated assaults in 2019. Still fresh in Americans’ memory are mass shootings in the Columbia High School and Aurora movie theatre.
6th
Rate of unemployment
Colorado ranks 6th in terms of the rate of unemployment, together with Iowa and South Carolina, Virginia, and New Hampshire. However, the rate is gradually going down, possibly, over the strikes organized by teachers in 2019 and others following in their steps.
91.1%
Studied in high schools
Bachelor’s degree is an asset of the majority of the residents, making the state the third across the USA. 91.1% studied in high schools, while 14.6$ pursued a college education.
22
Negative reports last year
Wellness in Colorado is among the top 10 states. Policy outcomes seem to be the sore spot, however, showing 22 negative reports last year. The communities in Colorado, being utmostly active, contribute to the overall stability in wellness and health.
10.5%
Of men
10.5% of men and 12.5% of women find themselves in harsh conditions and live nigh the line of poverty. Poor ethnic groups are represented here by Native Americans, Blacks, Hispanics, and Whites, with 21.11%, 19.91%, 19.30%, and 8.50% accordingly. The figures are the lowest across the region.
692
Violations with drinking water quality
Considering this factor, Colorado hits 31st position nationwide, amassing 72 negative outcomes last year. 692 violations with drinking water quality and 405 overall water quality reports were filed in the previous year. Pesticides are within the norm, seven violations reported.
6%
Of active roads demand renovation
Due to the proliferation of mountainous landscapes, the building of highways seems to be complicated in Colorado. A driver spends on roads around $305, which makes the seventh in the US state by this metric. 6% of active roads demand renovation, and 5.4% of bridges could be upgraded and reconstructed.
Hawaii
The Pacific Paradise, the Aloha State, and other pleasant names belong to Hawaii, and this is entirely justified, as it is definitely among the most beautiful locations worldwide. As it is an island, its private life is ensured geographically. The state has a proliferation of beaches, plant and animal world’s representatives, and a relaxed way of life set by the locals and picked by the residents. The cost of living there is considerably ample, due to all the advantages described above. However, the state, in fact, is far from Paradise, statistically.
Population
Income
Home Value
Crime
Unemployment
Education
Medicine
Poverty
Environment
Infrastructure
221
Residents by square mile
The density is among the lowest in the country, only 221 residents per square mile. Oahu is the most populous region there. The rest of the population is scattered across the seven large islands.
As was mentioned above, the living cost is ample, and beyond the average in the country. Households struggle to keep up with the living standards, with a so-called ‘Sunshine Tax’ adding to the picture of expenses.
2.2%
The homes’ values are on a slow upward trend
Due to the high prices, seemingly, the estate market in Hawaii is inactive for the most part. The homes’ values are on a slow upward trend, and the figures are projected to go up by 2.2% next year.
413
Robbery cases
The statistics of crimes in the state make it uneasy for Hawaii to keep up with the title of heaven on earth, with 413 robbery cases and 1,654 burglary cases reported last year. The homicide level is averagely low, but property-related crime flourishes. East Honolulu and Kailua seem to be the safest spots in the state.
3%
Rate of unemployment
In terms of the unemployment rate, Hawaii keeps the ninth place nationwide, sharing common traits with New Hampshire and Vermont. The percentage of unemployed residents is 3%. Thanks to the well-developed tourism sphere providing hospitality and food workplaces, most people there can obtain jobs.
91.6%
Studied in high schools
The figures are medium here: 91.6% graduated high schools, and around 35% of Hawaiians boast bachelor’s degrees. AS to advanced education, the percentage is fairly minute.
Good health and wellness are among the top assets of residents of Hawaii. No serious violations were reported last year. However, the rate of clinical care could be improved to align with other positive figures.
9%
Of men who face difficulties finding the job
As to the poor households and individuals, Hawaii houses has 11% of women and 9% of men who face difficulties finding the job. As things stand, Native Americans account for 25%, Islanders keep up with 22.5%, and Hispanics lag behind with 14.14%.
Hawaii shows noticeable results in terms of environmental violations. The quality of water to drink and to wash, as well as figures in adverse waste, are excellent. The use of pesticides should be under stricter control, as stats show. Air quality is among the best countrywide.
27
Commuting time
Roads in the devastating condition is a sore spot of Hawaii. $590 per annum is what an average driver pays for using the roads. And the commuting time is around 27 minutes. Overall, the infrastructural condition leaves much to be desired and ranks among the worst in the USA.
Vermont
As to the size, the USA has only five states that are smaller than Vermont. The population is comparatively low. The state boasts its natural resources; it houses many indigenous tribes and famous for maple syrup production.
Population
Income
Home Value
Crime
Unemployment
Education
Medicine
Poverty
Environment
Infrastructure
9,616
Residents by square mile
Compared to other states, the population is rather small: 9,616 residents per square mile. The northwest part of the state is the most populous, with Brighton is the leader having 42,000 people.
The median earnings in the state are average countrywide. The manufacturing, governmental, and real estate markets, healthcare, and retail sectors are the most promising areas employing the most workers in the state.
5.5%
The home value went up
The home value went up by 5.5% last year, and the market is almost still. Experts say it may be followed by 4.1% of growth next year. Now, the prices are overwhelming.
28
Violent acts
Criminal elements do not feel safe in the state. Last year saw 28 violent acts, no homicides, and a couple of cases of robbery. The number of aggravated assaults was only 20 cases last year, making the state’s crime level the 4th-lowest in the USA.
2.3%
Rate of unemployment
Vermont holds its status of the best state in terms of unemployment rates, 2.3% last year. Jobs in sales, retail, and nursing are among the tops in the country.
37%
Of college graduate
The state boasts its well-educated population: 37% of college graduates, 15% of Master’s Ph, D., and Doctor’s degree holders. In terms of the number of high schools, the state hits seventh place nationwide.
18
Violations
Wellness and health categories are among the best in the country. However, health outcomes are still in want of improvement: 18 violations were reported last year. Policy, environment, and community factors saw only three negative outcomes.
4.8%
Pacific Islanders
With a reputation of one of the most well-to-do states, Vermont still has problems with poverty: 10.2% men and 12.4% are nigh the lines. Terrible conditions of life are experienced by Blacks and Native Americans, with 22% each. Pacific Islanders do way better, with only 4.8% being poor.
The state keeps the tenth position nationwide in terms of environmental violations. Air and pesticide situation seems to be perfect there, but waste-related policies could be better off. Water, however, is in the lead across the country.
23
Commuting time
Infrastructure in Vermont is among the best in the USA. 3.5% of roads and 2.5% of bridges need renovation in the state. A median commuting time is about 23 minutes.
Minnesota
The state enjoys such prominent examples of natural beauty as the Great Lakes; it is in the midst of vast prairies and forests. Next to only Alaska, the state is close to the very north of the country. The state shares borderlines with Iowa, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Mantiboa, and Ontario, with the Lake Superior a pearl of its territory. The temperatures are extremely low in wintertime, and the summers can be sweltering, so the factor in retaining residents within the state is its utmost beauty of nature.
Population
Income
Home Value
Crime
Unemployment
Education
Medicine
Poverty
Environment
Infrastructure
9,616
Residents by square mile
The density of the population is quite low, with only 68.9 residents per square mile. The largest group of residents comprises the whites, who started developing their settlements in the middle of the 19th century. Now, the area has accumulated a more considerable population, making approximately a million every hundred years.
Manufacturing of various products and service sectors are among the most developed in Minnesota. Mine development, as well as production concerning raw materials, have long contributed to the state’s overall economy. The state houses a variety of the country’s renowned companies, such as 3M, Target, United Health Group, and more.
5%
Real estate increased
A median real estate cost in the state saw an upward trend last year and increased by about 5%, analysts reported, and the chances are high that the trend will continue into the next year. The expected growth is estimated at nearly 3.6%. The real estate market is quite alive now, mostly in the Minneapolis area in the south. An average renter has to pay around $1,600 monthly.
285
Cases of robbery
As to the crime statistics, the figures are the following: 285 cases of robbery and 754 cases of burglary, as reported last year. The homicide rate is nigh 7%, outrunning some of the states on our shortlist. As to violent crimes, 2020 has seen as many as 920. Virginia, Brainerd, Minneapolis, and West Saint Paul are among the safest cities in the state.
187,000
In search of employment
In terms of the unemployment rate, the state holds a medium position on the country’s scale. An ample part of the residents is employed in technology-related jobs, laying the foundation of the state’s economy. However, as many as 187,000 are in search of employment.
12%
Have a more advanced degree
Nearly 25% of Minnesota’s residents boast having a Bachelor’s degree and better. The state hits the 11th place nationwide in that respect. The vast majority, nearly 93% of the state’s residents studied at high schools, while at least 12% have a more advanced degree.
16
Violations
The state is the undisputed leader in this aspect among all the states on the list. Health reports are at the lowest. Nevertheless, the policy had 16 violations last year, and ten negative reports concerning the community and environment.
32%
Native Americans
Poverty statistics are the lowest across the country. 9.5% of men and 11% of women are near the poverty line in the state, and the hardest hit ethnic community the Blacks, at nearly 32%, Native Americans, at 32%, and Hispanics, at 21%.
Environmentally, Minnesota faces terrible figures in pesticide use. Air quality is also poor there, but water and drinking water, in particular, are of really high quality.
24
Commuting time
Roads and bridges in Minnesota are of utmost quality, compared to nearly anywhere in the country. $555 is an average pay by drivers there, and the median commuting time is around 24 minutes.
Best State VS Worst State
Our specialists have considered several metrics, used the assistance of major companies, and addressed an ample amount of statistics to compile the shortlist and comprehensive guide across the top10 best states for living in the USA.
Concerning the key metrics, our team chose and compared the best worst of the regions in terms of health and crime statistics, home value and median income, education, environment, and infrastructure, as well as poverty and rate of unemployment.
Regarding the metrics, every state showed its best and worst sides, but now our readers have a broader picture of the best and the worst places in the USA.
Debra is highly-competent, scrupulous, and hard-working. As a journalist, Jane relies both on the rich experience and deep researching. When working on new articles and reviews, she strives to scrutinize topics thoroughly and provide readers with all the crucial facts.
Virginia
Massachusetts
New Hampshire
Utah
New Jersey
Connecticut
Colorado
Hawaii
Vermont
Minnesota
North Dakota
Maryland
Washington
Idaho
California
Delaware
New York
Oregon
Maine
Nebraska
Rhode Island
Wisconsin
South Dakota
Montana
Wyoming
Florida
Iowa
Kansas
Alaska
Illinois
Georgia
Texas
South Carolina
North Carolina
Missouri
Nevada
Michigan
Arizona
Indiana
Pennsylvania
New Mexico
Tennessee
Ohio
Alabama
Oklahoma
Mississippi
Kentucky
West Virginia
Arkansas
Louisiana
