Ranked: The 10 Worst US States To Live In

Here’s a rundown of the 10 states with the lowest quality of life in the U.S., based on factors like crime, healthcare, air quality, and inclusiveness. The states were ranked from worst to best, with the lowest offering the least favorable conditions for living and working.

10. Arizona

Arizona struggles with air quality due to rising temperatures, which contribute to some of the worst ozone pollution in the U.S. Healthcare access is limited, with fewer than two staffed hospital beds per 1,000 people. While Gov. Katie Hobbs repealed a near-total abortion ban, restrictions remain, adding to challenges for reproductive rights in the state.¹

• 2024 Quality of Life Score: 119/325
• Weaknesses: Air quality, healthcare, reproductive rights

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9. Kansas

Kansas faces significant childcare shortages, with just 825 licensed centers for a population of 2.9 million. Crime rates remain high, with over 11,000 violent crimes reported in 2022, although they have recently declined.

• 2024 Quality of Life Score: 113/325
• Weaknesses: Child care, crime, worker protections

8. Louisiana

Louisiana holds the title of America’s least healthy state, with high rates of premature death and obesity. Violent crime is rampant, with over 300 murders in 2022. The state’s strength lies in its child care system, with over 1,800 licensed facilities.

• 2024 Quality of Life Score: 100/325
• Weaknesses: Crime, health, reproductive rights

7. Missouri

Missouri’s voting restrictions and high crime rates place it low on this list. The state is known for burdensome voting policies, being one of only 10 states requiring an excuse to vote by mail. Missouri also struggles with high violent crime rates.

• 2024 Quality of Life Score: 98/325
• Weaknesses: Voting rights, crime, reproductive rights

6. Tennessee

Despite a decline in violent crime, Tennessee remains one of the most violent states in the U.S. Additionally, recent discriminatory legislation against LGBTQ+ individuals has worsened the state’s quality of life, especially for marginalized groups.

• 2024 Quality of Life Score: 96/325
• Weaknesses: Crime, inclusiveness, healthcare

5. Arkansas

Arkansas is the second-most dangerous state in terms of violent crime, behind New Mexico. The state also suffers from weak anti-discrimination protections and voting rights. However, it stands out for having affordable child care options.

• 2024 Quality of Life Score: 93/325
• Weaknesses: Inclusiveness, crime, voting rights

4. Oklahoma

Oklahoma has one of the most restrictive abortion bans in the U.S., along with low rates of physical activity and high obesity rates. Healthcare access remains a challenge, contributing to its ranking among the least healthy states.

• 2024 Quality of Life Score: 85/325
• Weaknesses: Reproductive rights, health, worker protections

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3. Alabama

With no early voting and significant restrictions on absentee voting, Alabama ranks poorly for voting rights. The state also offers no public accommodation protections for non-disabled individuals and has one of the lowest minimum wages in the U.S.

• 2024 Quality of Life Score: 83/325
• Weaknesses: Voting rights, inclusiveness, worker protections

2. Indiana

Indiana faces significant challenges in child care, with just 772 licensed centers for its nearly seven million residents. The state also passed several anti-LGBTQ+ laws, further diminishing its inclusiveness and overall quality of life.

• 2024 Quality of Life Score: 78/325
• Weaknesses: Child care, reproductive rights, inclusiveness, voting rights

1. Texas

Texas ranks the lowest, with severe issues in healthcare access, reproductive rights, and inclusiveness. The state has the highest percentage of uninsured residents and strict abortion bans. Despite high migration to the state, quality of life remains poor.

• 2024 Quality of Life Score: 75/325
• Weaknesses: Reproductive rights, healthcare, voting rights, worker protections

Top 5 Best States to Live In

In contrast to the worst states, here are the top five states offering the best quality of life, based on various factors like safety, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

5. New Hampshire

New Hampshire boasts the lowest crime rate in the U.S. and high levels of educational attainment. Despite being less affordable than some other states, its strong economy and safety make it an appealing place to live.

• Strengths: Safety, education, economy

4. Utah

Ranked as the third-most affordable state, Utah offers a favorable economy and high employment rates. Its affordability and strong economic performance contribute to its top ranking.

• Strengths: Affordability, economy

3. New Jersey

New Jersey ranks first for safety and offers excellent access to fitness and outdoor activities. The state also boasts the highest median household income in the country.

• Strengths: Safety, income, activities

2. Florida

Florida attracts new residents with its tax advantages and high quality of life, including numerous recreational opportunities. The state’s economy has been bolstered by an influx of people seeking its sunny weather and low taxes.

• Strengths: Quality of life, economy, tax advantages

1. Massachusetts

Massachusetts ranks first for education and healthcare, with the highest math and reading scores and near-universal health insurance coverage. Despite being expensive, it excels in nearly every other category, making it the best state to live in.

• Strengths: Education, healthcare, safety

These rankings highlight the states where the quality of life is either thriving or in need of improvement, offering a snapshot of what life is like across the U.S. in 2024.

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