The 10 Best States to Live in for 2025, According to a New Study
Choosing where to live isn’t just about finding a place with nice weather or a decent coffee shop nearby. It’s about balancing your budget, job opportunities, safety, education, health care, and overall quality of life. Some states shine in one area but fall short in others, but according to a new WalletHub study, a few manage to excel across the board.
As someone who calls Wisconsin home, I was especially curious to see how my state stacked up, and I was happy to see it ranked in the top five. But no matter where you’re from, this list has a few surprises.
Researchers compared all 50 states using 51 indicators, from housing costs and income growth to the quality of hospitals, public schools, and even access to hiking trails. Here’s a closer look at the top 10, starting with #10 and working our way to the best state in America to call home.
#10. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania may surprise some on this list, but its mix of affordable living, strong health care, and cultural attractions earns it a spot in the top 10. The state ranked fifth for quality of life and 11th for safety, meaning you can enjoy everything from bustling cities to peaceful small towns without feeling like you have to sacrifice security or convenience.
#9. New York
Sure, New York is known for its high costs (ranking 47th in affordability), but it makes up for it with world-class amenities. The state ranked first for quality of life thanks to its unmatched public transportation, endless dining and entertainment options, and outdoor access. It also placed seventh in safety, so while it’s busy, it’s far from lawless.
#8. Utah
Utah combines affordability with health-focused living, ranking second in education and health. Residents benefit from beautiful landscapes for hiking and skiing, and the state has a robust economy that makes it appealing for job seekers. It’s also ranked sixth in affordability—rare for a state with so many outdoor perks.
#7. New Hampshire
If safety is your top priority, New Hampshire should be on your radar, it ranked third in this category. The state also came in third for economy and seventh for education and health. It may not have a sprawling nightlife scene, but its quality schools, low crime rate, and scenic beauty more than make up for it.
#6. Florida
Florida isn’t just for retirees, though it does appeal to them for good reason. Ranking fourth in quality of life and 12th in safety, the Sunshine State also offers year-round warm weather and no state income tax. Just be ready for higher housing costs and the occasional hurricane.
#5. Minnesota
Known for its lakes and friendly communities, Minnesota ranks fifth in education and health and 10th in quality of life. It’s a great state for those who value outdoor activities year-round—yes, even in the snow. The economy is solid, and residents tend to enjoy longer, healthier lives than the national average.
#4. Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s mix of affordability, safety, and access to health care puts it in the top five. Ranking ninth in education and health and eighth in safety, the state also offers charming small towns, thriving cities like Madison and Milwaukee, and, of course, plenty of cheese.
As someone who grew up here, I can vouch for its appeal. There’s a real sense of community, four distinct (and beautiful) seasons, and endless weekend getaways, from Door County’s shoreline to the Northwoods to Packers games in Green Bay. And yes, you’ll quickly learn to embrace Friday night fish fries and cheering for the Packers as part of the culture.
#3. New Jersey
New Jersey may have a high cost of living, but it’s also the safest state in the nation, with the highest number of law enforcement employees per capita. It boasts the third-highest median household income and plenty of fitness centers and trails to help residents stay active. Its location also makes commuting to major cities like New York or Philadelphia easy.
#2. Idaho
Idaho is an affordability winner, with one of the lowest property tax rates in the country and the highest median household income growth. Commutes are short, roads are well-maintained, and it’s the safest state in America for property crime. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the easy access to trails, rivers, and mountains.
#1. Massachusetts
Massachusetts takes the crown for best state to live in thanks to its top-ranked education system, strong health care, and low crime rates. Residents enjoy the highest rate of health insurance coverage in the country, a high median household income, and easy access to public transportation. While affordability isn’t its strongest suit, the Bay State’s overall quality of life more than makes up for it.
No matter where you live, there’s always a trade-off—whether it’s weather, cost, or convenience. But according to WalletHub’s data, these states have struck the best balance in 2025.
If you’re interested in other quality-of-life rankings, you might also like my breakdowns of the safest states to live in, the best places in the U.S. to retire, and the most dangerous destinations for 2025.
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