Massachusetts Named Best US State for Raising a Family in Comprehensive Study
A new analysis has revealed stark differences in how American states support family life, with Massachusetts emerging as the top performer while New Mexico faces significant challenges. The study, conducted by financial website WalletHub, evaluated all 50 states across five critical indicators that matter most to families.
The Top Performers: Excellence in Education and Public Services
Massachusetts secured the number one position overall, thanks to its exceptional educational standards and quality public services. Despite having a high cost of living, the Bay State ranked third in family fun, first in education and childcare, and third in affordability. Key strengths included high-quality schools and low infant mortality rates, creating what analysts describe as a supportive environment for child development.
Following Massachusetts, the highest-ranked states were:
- Minnesota
- North Dakota
- Wisconsin
- Nebraska
- New York
- Connecticut
- New Hampshire
- Illinois
- Maine
These states demonstrated positive metrics across multiple areas including family fun, health and safety, and socioeconomic conditions. Minnesota's strong family income statistics and lower divorce rates helped secure its position near the top, while North Dakota's third-place ranking highlighted its balanced approach to family support.
The Financial Reality of Modern Parenting
"Raising a family has become significantly more expensive in recent years as the cost of living has risen quickly," said Chip Lupo, analyst at WalletHub. "It can cost a family as much as $320,000 to raise a child to age 18, according to statistics from the US Department of Agriculture."
Lupo emphasized the importance of location in managing these costs: "In light of the expensive nature of being a parent and the responsibility it entails, it's important to live in a city that is affordable while still providing quality health care, education, safety and opportunities for enrichment."
New Mexico's Challenges: Despite Childcare Reforms
At the opposite end of the spectrum, New Mexico ranked last overall, despite becoming the first US state to offer no-cost universal childcare to all residents late last year. "New Mexico ranks last overall for raising a family because many core conditions that support family life are weak," explained Lupo.
The state faces multiple challenges:
- 47th in family fun attractions and recreation centers per capita
- 50th in education and childcare, with public schools ranking 39th
- Highest infant mortality rate and lowest life expectancy at 71.92 years
- 45th in median family income at $79,974
- 50th in share of families in poverty at 14.3%
"While the state recently introduced universal free childcare, this policy was not yet in effect when the report was compiled, so its potential impact on family affordability and well-being was not captured in the rankings," Lupo noted. "New Mexico will likely rise in the rankings next year."
Methodology and Broader Implications
WalletHub analysts compiled data across five major categories: family fun, health and safety, education and childcare, affordability, and socioeconomics. Each state received scores based on these metrics, with higher scores reflecting conditions more favorable for family life.
The bottom five states, alongside New Mexico, were West Virginia, Mississippi, Nevada, and Alabama at 46th position. According to the data, these states lag behind in key areas including affordable housing, health, safety, and economic opportunities - all critical to family stability and quality of life.
For families considering relocation or evaluating quality of life, the rankings offer a detailed snapshot of how states compare across financial, educational and safety issues. Massachusetts, Minnesota, and North Dakota appear to offer the best balance of opportunity and livability, while states at the bottom present challenges in cost, access to quality services, or community resources.
The study highlights how geographical location within the United States can significantly impact family wellbeing, with some states providing comprehensive support systems while others struggle to meet basic needs despite policy innovations.
