What is the least desirable state to live in?

There's no single "worst" state, as it depends on priorities, but New Mexico and Louisiana frequently rank at the bottom overall due to high crime, poverty, poor healthcare/education, while states like Mississippi and West Virginia are often cited for health issues, poverty, and low quality of life, with specific factors like Tennessee's crime or poor infrastructure also placing states low on rankings.

What is the hardest U.S. state to live in?

These states are America's worst for quality of life in 2025:

• Arkansas.
• Alabama.
• Georgia.
• Louisiana.
• Utah.
• Indiana.
• Texas.
• Tennessee.

What is the most desirable state to live in?

10 Best US States to Live In, According to a New Study

1. Massachusetts. According to WalletHub's study, Massachusetts is the best state to live in, excelling in all key factors—and earning the top spot in the ranking.
2. Idaho. ...
3. New Jersey. ...
4. Wisconsin. ...
5. Minnesota. ...
6. Florida. ...
7. New Hampshire. ...
8. Utah. ...

What is the #1 cheapest state to live in?

Below is a detailed breakdown of the ten most affordable states to live in 2025:

• Arkansas. Arkansas continues to be one of the most affordable states in the U.S., especially for those looking to buy property. ...
• Mississippi. ...
• Oklahoma. ...
• New Mexico. ...
• Missouri. ...
• Tennessee. ...
• Michigan. ...
• Texas.

What is the least popular U.S. state?

Several states have less than 1,000,000 people, and Wyoming holds the title of the least-populated state, with fewer than 600,000.

Worst US States to Live In (And Why People Are Leaving)

What is the unhappiest state in the US?

West Virginia

WalletHub found that West Virginia is the least-happy state in the US. The state had the highest rate of adult depression, the second-lowest rate of adequate sleep, and the fourth-lowest sports participation rate. It was ranked the lowest in the study's work environment and physical well-being rankings.

What is the most loved state in the USA?

Hawaii is Americans' favorite state. A new YouGov survey explored which states Americans are most likely to view favorably — and unfavorably. More Americans view Hawaii favorably — and very favorably — than any other state. And fewer Americans have a favorable view of Washington, DC than of any state.

What is the happiest state to live in?

Hawaii consistently ranks as the happiest and least stressed state in the United States, characterized by high levels of emotional and physical well-being among its residents.

What state has the friendliest people?

WCCO CBS reported, "The study found that Minnesota is the friendliest state." This edged out Texas and other notoriously friendly-seeming states in that region (depending on who you ask).

What's the prettiest state to live in?

Home to nine national parks (more parks than any other state in the country), California is undoubtedly the most beautiful state in America for natural wonders. From sandy beaches drenched in sunlight to majestic granite mountains, arid desert landscapes and the tallest trees in the world, California has it all.

Where are people moving to in 2026?

The South and Southwest remain dominant destinations for domestic migration, driven by lower housing costs, warm climates, and growing economies. Cities and states such as Tennessee, North Carolina, and Georgia continue to draw new residents.

What is the most calm state in the US?

Maine scored as the most peaceful state both years.

What is the #1 crime state in America?

States with the highest and lowest crime rates

Alaska had the highest violent crime rate of any state in 2024, at 724.1 incidents per 100,000 residents, followed by New Mexico (717.1), Tennessee (592.3), Arkansas (579.4) and Louisiana (519.8).

What states are losing the most population?

According to a December release by the Census Bureau, California, Illinois and New York—along with West Virginia, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Hawaii and Oregon — lost population in 2023 compared to 2022. Throughout the new Census first released in 2020, all three states have shown continuously sinking population numbers.

What is the #1 state people are moving to?

For the sixth year in a row, South Carolina is the state Americans want to move to most. South Carolina is the most popular state to move to for the sixth year in a row.

Which states are struggling financially?

10 States Where Americans Are Struggling the Most to Cover the Basics

• Mississippi – Score: 90.2 (out of 100)
• Louisiana – Score: 80.3.
• West Virginia – Score: 77.8.
• New Mexico – Score: 74.7.
• Nevada – Score: 72.7.
• Oklahoma – Score: 71.3.
• California – Score: 70.4.
• Georgia – Score: 70.2.

What state do most rich people live in?

California has 199 U.S. billionaires, the most of any state (and fourth-most in the world). Only three states—Alaska, Delaware, and West Virginia—don't have a resident U.S. billionaire.

What is the safest state to live in?

Vermont, Massachusetts and New Hampshire landed at the top of WalletHub's 2025 list, with Texas, Mississippi and Louisiana ranked least safe. WASHINGTON – Wallethub has released its 2025 list of the safest states in the U.S., placing Vermont, Massachusetts and New Hampshire at the top of the list.

What are the states with no income tax?

As of 2025, there are nine states that don't collect any state income tax: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, New Hampshire, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming.

What is the most visited state?

64% of Americans say they have visited Florida, the most of any state. Other frequently visited states include New York (56% of Americans), Texas (51%), and California (50%). 54% say they have visited Washington, D.C.

Which state has the best weather year-round?

1. California

From San Diego to Santa Barbara and up to San Francisco, California delivers a buffet of excellent weather. The south and central California coast features a mild Mediterranean climate, meaning warm temperatures, mild winters and dry weather with abundant sunshine.