- By Supratik Das
- Wed, 18 Jun 2025 04:54 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Utah has again been ranked the best state to reside in the United States, leading the US News & World Report's 2025 list for the third year in a row. The yearly rankings assess all 50 states against eight important categories, ranging from healthcare to crime and the natural world. The rankings, which were based on 71 in-depth measures, boasted a strong performance by states in the Midwestern and New England regions. New Hampshire held second place, and Idaho moved up two places to take third. Minnesota and Nebraska stand at the top five.
Why Utah Is The Best State To Reside?
With a population of 3.5 million, Utah's consistent top ranking is due to its healthy fiscal stability, solid infrastructure, and high standard of living. The state has a balance of urban and rural environments, from energetic Salt Lake City to quaint ski resorts such as Midway. Affordability of living, proximity to nature, and a pro-family atmosphere continue to attract new movers, particularly young families and professionals. It has ranked first in fiscal stability but stands 19th in the aspect of opportunity.
New Hampshire: Low Crime and Close Communities
New Hampshire, usually lauded for its natural beauty and low-crime neighborhoods, placed second. Crime and corrections at No. 1 among all the states, making the Granite State especially desirable to families looking for security and a close community. It has ranked first for Crime & Corrections but stands 37th with respect to Fiscal stability.
Idaho: Clean, Quiet, and Economically Vibrant
Idaho jumped into third position in the 2025 rankings, powered by its thriving economy (4th overall). Famous for its clean and serene surroundings, the state is becoming more sought after by families relocating from pricier states such as California. The capital, Boise, provides outdoor recreation opportunities along with affordable living.
Minnesota: Lakes, Lifestyle, and Opportunity
Minnesota held onto fourth spot, appreciated for its lake living and strong prospects for inhabitants. Although ranked 28th in economy, the state is still drawing professionals and students, particularly in the Twin Cities region.
Nebraska: Infrastructure Investment Pays Off
Fifth-ranked Nebraska has emerged as a rising star due to its state-of-the-art infrastructure. Urban convenience and small-town appeal are offered by cities such as Lincoln and Omaha. Low living costs and reasonable tax burdens attract retirees and telecommuters alike to the Cornhusker State.
Florida: The Only Southern State In Top 10
Even with a thriving economy and rapidly growing population, only one southern state broke into the top 10, and that was Florida at number six. Its economy led all other states, but it fared poorly in opportunity and education categories.
Vermont, South Dakota, Massachusetts, and Washington Complete the List
• Vermont (7th) was noted for its high ranking in opportunity and low-cost housing available.
• South Dakota (8th) entered the top 10 for the first time, thanks largely to second-ranked infrastructure and a nature-based lifestyle.
• Massachusetts (9th) upheld its image for top-notch healthcare and innovation, but ranked low on infrastructure.
• Washington (10th) still enjoyed the benefits of a healthy tech industry and natural attractions, even with lower opportunity scores.
Though old urban centers such as California and New York provide cultural and economic opportunities, the 2025 rankings show an increasing trend of Americans looking for affordability, security, and community in smaller and mid-sized states. The US News & World Report rankings highlight the significance of long-term planning in selecting where to reside. With changing economic conditions and shifting lifestyles after the pandemic, considerations like healthcare availability, public safety, education, and living costs are more significant than ever.
