As America approaches 2025, various studies and reports highlight states that excel in quality of life based on health, environment, and safety. This year, states such as Nebraska, Massachusetts, Hawaii, North Dakota, and New Jersey have emerged as leaders in providing residents with a high standard of living. We monitor air quality, health metrics, crime rates, and child care accessibility. As families search for the most supportive living environment, these factors become key.
Nebraska stands out prominently in this assessment. It’s consistently a top five state for clean air. This key determinant is largely responsible for making this community rank as one of the healthiest in the nation. The state consistently ranks in the bottom of the nation for mental and physical distress as well. This positive health profile is complemented by a notably low drug death rate, placing Nebraska second nationally in this regard.
In spite of these commendable health statistics, Nebraska, similar to many other states, has issues regarding the accessibility of child care. As it stands, the state has just 864 licensed and regulated child care centers. This limited availability forces families to an impossible choice of paying skyrocketing child care tuition. In fact, these costs can amount to over a quarter (30%) of the median income for such a household. These costs are extremely burdensome on budgets. It’s crucial for state officials to address these priorities to honor the state’s long-standing commitment to make Nebraska the best possible place to live.
Among those other states with a high quality of life there is Virginia. Virginians are deeply invested in a healthy lifestyle, consistently ranking in the top ten nationally for exercising regularly. This commitment to health contributes significantly to the overall well-being of its residents and reflects the state’s investment in public health initiatives.
And not to leave North Dakota out, it was a runner-up in part for having the highest health metrics. The state is known for reporting one of the lowest nationwide incidences of mental and physical distress. Such figures are a testament to having a deeply ingrained community support system and an environment that promotes mental wellness.
In doing so, Massachusetts reinforces its status as a standard bearer of worker protections. Families in Massachusetts have a bit of a financial break when it comes to child care costs. The average two-income family at this median income would pay only 9% of their income on childcare. This is a superior approach that gives them greater financial flexibility and long-term stability.
Hawaii is well-known for breathtaking vistas, vibrant culture, hospitable people, as well as a low crime rate and clean environment. The state’s Aloha spirit–a dedication to hospitality and community–creates a sense of belonging among locals and travelers. This cultural aspect has a huge impact on the quality of life that its inhabitants enjoy.
With its high quality of life, New Jersey has the ninth lowest violent crime rate in the nation. The state is facing a severe air quality crisis. The state ranks as the third-worst in this growing category of pollutants, which is creating dangerous health risks for the state’s residents. Continuing to provide clean air should continue to be a top priority for state leaders to make New Jersey such an attractive place to live.
Minnesota completes this list with its expansive, statewide protections against discrimination. Practices like these not only promote a more inclusive society, but help establish a community where all people can succeed.
Each one of these states serve as a model for individual strengths that impact their quality of life index the most. Families are already on the ground researching where they want to move or put down roots. These considerations are going to factor heavily in their decision making.