What Are the 10 Best States to Live in the US?

The 10 best states to live in the US include Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Minnesota, Utah, Virginia, Colorado, Washington, North Carolina, Vermont, and Iowa. These states stand out for different combinations of health care, employment, education, outdoor recreation, affordability, community life, and access to attractive cities and towns.

There is no single state that is best for everyone. A young professional may prioritize salaries and career opportunities, while a family may care more about schools, housing, safety, and health care.

How Did We Choose the Best States to Live In?

There is no official government ranking of the best state to live in, so any useful list should explain what is being measured.

For this guide, we considered several factors that directly affect everyday life:

• Employment opportunities
• Cost of living and housing
• Health and access to care
• Education
• Community and lifestyle
• Outdoor recreation
• Transportation and location
• Climate
• Family friendliness
• Long-term quality of life

Cost deserves special attention. The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis uses Regional Price Parities, or RPPs, to compare price levels among states. Its latest available 2024 data show major differences across the country: California and Hawaii were among the highest-cost states, while Arkansas, Mississippi, Iowa, and Oklahoma were among the least expensive.

Health also matters. America’s Health Rankings evaluates states using 50 measures covering health outcomes, clinical care, behaviours, physical environment, and social and economic factors. In its 2025 report, New Hampshire ranked first overall, followed by Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, and Utah.

Those differences are why our list focuses on overall balance rather than one statistic.

1. Massachusetts

Why is Massachusetts one of the best states to live in?

Massachusetts is an excellent choice for people who value health care, education, high-skilled employment, history, and access to major cultural institutions.

Boston and the surrounding region have strong concentrations of employers in health care, biotechnology, finance, higher education, engineering, and technology.

Major institutions include:

• Harvard University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Massachusetts General Hospital
• Boston Children’s Hospital
• Numerous biotechnology and technology companies

Massachusetts also ranked No. 2 nationally in the 2025 America’s Health Rankings report, reinforcing its reputation for strong health outcomes and medical infrastructure.

The downside

Housing and everyday expenses can be high, particularly around Greater Boston. Someone moving for a higher salary should compare the salary increase against rent, home prices, commuting, child care, and taxes.

Best for

• Professionals
• Families prioritizing education
• Health care workers
• Researchers
• Technology and biotechnology workers

Overall strength: Education and career opportunities
Main drawback: High cost of living

2. New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers a strong combination of health, outdoor recreation, community life, and access to the larger New England economy.

The state ranked No. 1 in America’s Health Rankings for 2025 for the fourth consecutive year. It placed particularly well in social and economic factors, behaviours, clinical care, and health outcomes.

Residents also have easy access to:

• White Mountains
• Lakes Region
• Hiking
• Skiing
• Small historic towns
• New England road trips
• Boston-area employment from southern New Hampshire

Why families may like it

New Hampshire can appeal to households that want more space and outdoor access without completely disconnecting from major Northeast employment centers.

What should you consider?

Winters can be long and cold, and desirable communities within commuting distance of Massachusetts may be expensive.

Best for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and people who prefer smaller communities
Overall strength: Health and quality of life
Main drawback: Cold winters and housing pressure in popular areas

3. Minnesota

Is Minnesota a good state for families?

Yes. Minnesota is particularly attractive to families because it combines major employment centers, health care, education, parks, recreation, and comparatively manageable costs outside its most expensive neighborhoods.

Minneapolis–Saint Paul gives residents access to a large metropolitan economy without the price levels associated with cities such as San Francisco or New York.

Minnesota also ranked No. 6 in the 2025 America’s Health Rankings report, placing it among the healthiest states nationally.

Outdoor recreation is another advantage. The state is known for lakes, parks, boating, fishing, cycling, and winter activities.

Who should consider Minnesota?

It works particularly well for:

• Families
• Health care professionals
• Corporate employees
• Outdoor enthusiasts
• People seeking a mix of city and suburban life

Biggest disadvantage

Winter is not a minor consideration. Temperatures can become extremely cold, and newcomers should budget for winter clothing, heating, snow removal, and seasonal vehicle preparation.

Overall strength: Balanced family lifestyle
Main drawback: Severe winters

4. Utah

Utah has become attractive to workers and families looking for growing communities, dramatic outdoor recreation, and access to employment around the Wasatch Front.

Popular areas include:

• Salt Lake City
• Provo
• Ogden
• St. George
• Park City

Utah also ranked No. 5 nationally for health in the 2025 America’s Health Rankings report.

Outdoor recreation is one of Utah’s biggest lifestyle advantages. Residents can reach mountains, ski areas, hiking destinations and internationally known national parks, including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef.

Is Utah still affordable?

That depends heavily on location. Utah may offer good value compared with the most expensive coastal markets, but housing costs have increased substantially in many fast-growing communities.

The lesson is simple: don’t assume a state is affordable because it was affordable five or ten years ago.

Best for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and professionals
Overall strength: Recreation and growing communities
Main drawback: Housing affordability in popular areas

5. Virginia

Virginia is one of the most versatile states on this list.

Northern Virginia provides access to Washington, D.C., government agencies, technology companies, defense contractors, consulting firms, and professional services.

Elsewhere, residents can choose among:

• Richmond
• Charlottesville
• Virginia Beach
• Roanoke
• Williamsburg
• Smaller mountain and coastal communities

Virginia ranked No. 14 in the 2025 America’s Health Rankings report, giving it a relatively strong health profile compared with much of the country.

Why Virginia stands out

Few states offer the same combination of:

• Mountains
• Atlantic beaches
• Historic towns
• Large suburbs
• Rural communities
• Major employment centers

The biggest trade-off

The cost of living differs dramatically within the state. Northern Virginia can be expensive, while smaller cities and rural areas may provide much more affordable housing.

Best for: Professionals, families, government workers, and remote workers
Overall strength: Career and location diversity
Main drawback: High costs near Washington, D.C.

6. Colorado

Colorado remains one of America’s most appealing states for people who want careers and outdoor recreation in the same place.

Major population centers include:

• Denver
• Colorado Springs
• Fort Collins
• Boulder

Residents can access hiking, skiing, mountain biking, camping, climbing, fishing, and some of America’s most recognizable mountain landscapes.

Colorado also ranked No. 12 for overall health in the 2025 America’s Health Rankings report.

Why move to Colorado?

Colorado may suit someone who values an active lifestyle but still wants access to metropolitan jobs, restaurants, entertainment, airports, and universities.

What is the catch?

Housing costs have become challenging in Denver, Boulder, and several mountain communities. Traffic and wildfire-related risks can also affect particular locations.

Best for: Active professionals, remote workers, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts
Overall strength: Outdoor lifestyle
Main drawback: Housing costs in desirable communities

7. Washington

Washington combines major technology employment with mountains, forests, islands, national parks, and the Pacific coastline.

Seattle’s economy includes major global companies and industries such as:

• Technology
• Aerospace
• Health care
• Logistics
• Research
• E-commerce

Washington ranked No. 7 nationally in America’s Health Rankings for 2025.

BEA data also found that Washington had the second-largest increase in real personal income in 2024, at 5.0%.

Best places to consider

Depending on lifestyle and budget, people may look at:

• Seattle
• Bellevue
• Tacoma
• Spokane
• Vancouver
• Bellingham
• Olympia

Downsides

The Seattle area can be expensive, and western Washington’s cloudy, wet winters are not for everyone.

Best for: Technology workers, professionals, nature lovers, and high-income households
Overall strength: Jobs plus natural scenery
Main drawback: Expensive housing around Seattle

8. North Carolina

Is North Carolina a good state to move to?

North Carolina is a compelling choice for people seeking growing job markets, relatively moderate living costs, universities, mountains, beaches, and a variety of metropolitan areas.

Popular relocation destinations include:

• Raleigh
• Durham
• Charlotte
• Greensboro
• Winston-Salem
• Asheville
• Wilmington

The Raleigh-Durham region benefits from universities, research institutions, health care, technology, and the Research Triangle.

Charlotte is a major banking and business center.

BEA’s earlier state price data have generally shown North Carolina below the national average in overall price levels, though individual cities and housing markets vary considerably.

Why it works for different lifestyles

A resident can choose between:

• Big-city careers
• Suburban family life
• Blue Ridge Mountain communities
• Atlantic Coast destinations
• University towns

Things to consider

Fast-growing cities have experienced rising housing costs, while coastal areas face hurricane and flood risks.

Best for: Families, professionals, remote workers, and retirees
Overall strength: Value and geographic variety
Main drawback: Rapid growth and regional weather risks

9. Vermont

Vermont is not for someone seeking a huge metropolitan lifestyle. That is precisely why it attracts many residents.

The state offers:

• Small towns
• Mountain landscapes
• Skiing
• Hiking
• Farms
• Local businesses
• Outdoor recreation
• Strong community identity

Vermont ranked No. 3 nationally in the 2025 America’s Health Rankings report.

Who should live in Vermont?

Vermont can be a strong fit for people prioritizing nature, community, slower-paced living, and access to outdoor activities.

Remote workers may find it particularly appealing if reliable broadband is available at the specific property they are considering.

What are the disadvantages?

Employment options can be more limited than in larger states, and some rural locations require long drives for specialized services. Winters can also be demanding.

Best for: Remote workers, outdoor enthusiasts, and small-town living
Overall strength: Health and natural environment
Main drawback: Limited big-city employment options

10. Iowa

Iowa earns a place on this list for a different reason: affordability.

While expensive coastal states can offer larger salaries, those salaries do not always translate into greater purchasing power.

BEA’s 2024 Regional Price Parity data placed Iowa among the least expensive states in the country, with an overall price level of 87.8 compared with the national benchmark of 100.

Cities such as Des Moines and Cedar Rapids can provide urban amenities without the housing costs found in many major coastal markets.

Why Iowa can be a practical choice

Residents may benefit from:

• Lower everyday costs
• More attainable housing in many areas
• Shorter commutes
• Smaller cities
• Agricultural and business employment
• Family-oriented communities

Downsides

People seeking mountains, ocean access, or enormous metropolitan areas may find Iowa less appealing. Winters can also be cold.

Best for: Budget-conscious families and people seeking affordable Midwestern living
Overall strength: Cost of living
Main drawback: Fewer major metropolitan lifestyle options

Comparison: Which State Is Best for You?

These are broad statewide descriptions. Costs can differ dramatically between neighborhoods, cities, suburbs, and rural areas.

What Should You Consider Before Moving to Another State?

Choosing a state based on a national ranking alone is a mistake.

Before relocating, compare these factors personally.

1. Housing

Look at actual homes or apartments in neighborhoods where you would realistically live.

2. Employment

Research salaries in your field rather than relying on statewide averages.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, unemployment rates continued to differ meaningfully among states in July 2026, showing why local labor-market conditions should be part of any relocation decision.

3. Taxes

Compare income, property, and sales taxes, but don’t judge a state by one tax alone. A lower tax rate may come with higher housing, insurance, utilities, or transportation costs.

4. Health Care

Check whether your preferred health systems, doctors, specialists, and insurance networks operate where you plan to live.

5. Schools

Families should investigate the specific school district, not simply a statewide education ranking.

6. Climate and Natural Hazards

Consider:

• Hurricanes
• Wildfires
• Extreme heat
• Snowstorms
• Flooding
• Tornadoes
• Drought

Climate can affect insurance costs as well as daily life.

What Is the Most Affordable State on This List?

Iowa is the strongest affordability choice among the states in this ranking.

BEA’s Regional Price Parities provide one of the most useful ways to compare general price levels across states because they measure how prices differ relative to the national level. Iowa’s 2024 RPP of 87.8 placed it among America’s lowest-cost states.

North Carolina can also offer relatively good value, particularly outside its hottest housing markets.

What Is the Best State for Families?

Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Virginia, and Utah are particularly strong candidates for families, depending on budget and lifestyle.

Families should prioritize:

• School district quality
• Housing costs
• Health care
• Child care
• Commute times
• Parks
• Community safety
• Family activities

Remember that differences between cities can be greater than differences between states.

What Is the Best State for Jobs?

Washington, Massachusetts, Virginia, North Carolina, Colorado, and Utah offer attractive opportunities across different industries.

For example:

• Washington: technology and aerospace
• Massachusetts: biotechnology, medicine and education
• Virginia: government, defense and technology
• North Carolina: finance, technology, research and health care
• Colorado: technology, aerospace and professional services

The best state for your career ultimately depends on your occupation.

Common Mistakes When Choosing a State to Live In

Focusing Only on Salary

A $20,000 raise can disappear quickly if housing costs rise by $2,000 per month.

Using Statewide Data to Choose a Neighborhood

States contain both affordable and extremely expensive communities.

Ignoring Insurance

Home, auto, health, and natural-disaster-related insurance costs can significantly change your household budget.

Moving Without Visiting First

Spend several days experiencing normal neighbourhoods, grocery stores, traffic, weather, and commuting—not only tourist attractions.

Ignoring Future Needs

A state that works when you are single may not be ideal when you have children or retire.

Internal Link Opportunities for 10most.net

Strengthen the site’s U.S. lifestyle and travel topic cluster by linking this article naturally to:

• 10 Best Family Vacation Spots in the US
• 10 US Summer Vacation Ideas
• 10 Best Road Trips in the USA
• 10 Great Beaches in the US
• 10 Small Outdoor Living Space Ideas
• How to Plan a Road Trip: 10 Simple Steps

Potential future supporting articles could include:

• 10 Most Affordable States to Live In
• 10 Best States to Raise a Family
• 10 Best States to Retire In
• 10 Best Small Cities to Live in America
• 10 Best States for Remote Workers

Authoritative External Sources

For readers doing serious relocation research, link to trustworthy sources such as:

• U.S. Census Bureau for population and demographic information. The Census Bureau’s Vintage 2025 estimates are its latest completed consistent state population dataset.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for employment and unemployment data.
• U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis for state price levels and purchasing-power comparisons.
• America’s Health Rankings for state health comparisons.
• State education departments for school information.
• State and local government websites for taxes, transportation, licensing, and housing information.

Key Takeaways

• There is no universally best state because priorities differ by household.
• Massachusetts stands out for education, health care, and professional opportunities.
• New Hampshire performs exceptionally well on health and social factors.
• Minnesota provides a strong balance for families.
• Utah combines growing communities with outstanding outdoor recreation.
• Virginia provides diverse careers and geographic choices.
• Colorado is especially attractive for active lifestyles.
• Washington combines high-skilled employment with exceptional natural scenery.
• North Carolina offers a compelling balance of growth, location, and relative value.
• Vermont appeals to people seeking health, nature, and smaller communities.
• Iowa stands out for affordability.

Most importantly, compare cities and neighborhoods rather than relying only on statewide rankings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 10 best states to live in the US?

The 10 best states to live in the US in this guide are Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Minnesota, Utah, Virginia, Colorado, Washington, North Carolina, Vermont, and Iowa. The ranking considers a combination of employment, affordability, health, education, recreation, amenities, and overall quality of life rather than relying on one statistic.

What is the best overall state to live in?

Massachusetts is one of the strongest overall choices for education, health care, professional employment, and cultural amenities. However, its relatively high living costs mean New Hampshire, Minnesota, Utah, Virginia, or North Carolina may provide a better balance for some households.

What is the best affordable state to live in?

Iowa is one of the most affordable options on this list. BEA price data place Iowa among the lowest-cost states nationally. However, affordability should include wages, housing, taxes, insurance, transportation, utilities, and health care—not simply home prices.

What are the best states to raise a family?

Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Minnesota, Virginia, and Utah can be strong options for families. The right choice depends on housing affordability, school districts, employment, health care, child care, commute times, and preferred lifestyle.

Which state has the best health ranking?

New Hampshire ranked No. 1 in the 2025 America’s Health Rankings Annual Report, followed by Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, and Utah. The ranking evaluates multiple measures across health outcomes, care, behaviours, physical environment, and social and economic factors.

What states are best for outdoor lovers?

Colorado, Utah, Washington, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Minnesota are excellent options for people who prioritize hiking, skiing, camping, cycling, boating, mountains, lakes, or forests. The best choice depends on climate preferences and the type of recreation you enjoy.

What is the best state for young professionals?

Massachusetts, Washington, Virginia, North Carolina, Colorado, and Utah can be appealing to young professionals because they contain major employment centers and growing industries. Always compare salaries against local housing and transportation costs before accepting a job.

Should I move based on a best-state ranking?

No. Use rankings as a starting point. Before moving, research the exact city and neighbourhood, visit in person, compare housing and salaries, review schools and health care, calculate taxes and insurance, and evaluate climate and commute times.

Conclusion

Finding the 10 best states to live in the US is ultimately about matching a location to your own priorities.

Massachusetts may make sense for someone building a career in medicine or technology. Colorado may be worth the higher housing costs for someone who spends every weekend outdoors. A family might prefer Minnesota or Virginia, while someone seeking lower everyday expenses could find Iowa much more practical.

No state wins every category.

Before relocating, create a realistic monthly budget, research your employment prospects, compare neighborhoods, investigate schools and health care, and visit the area before making a permanent decision.

For more practical U.S. lifestyle, travel, home, and relocation guides, explore 10most.net and compare your options before planning your next move.