Where Families Thrive—and Struggle: Best and Worst States to Raise a Family in 2026

loving family laughing at table having cozy meal

Some states provide better living conditions than others. WalletHub analyzed 50 key factors, including median income, education, childcare, family fun, and affordability, to determine the best and worst states for families to live.

Based on 50 indicators, Massachusetts is the best state in which to raise a family, largely due to its balanced combination of economic opportunities and safe conditions for children. It’s not the cheapest state, as housing and child care costs are relatively high compared to most of the nation, but residents make up for this with fairly high incomes.

When it comes to health and overall well-being, Massachusetts has the fifth-best water quality in the country, the highest rate of children with health insurance, and the third-lowest infant mortality rate. It also has the second-highest overall life expectancy and fourth-lowest property crime rate.

Best & Worst States to Raise a Family

“Families should consider many factors when deciding where to settle, said Dr. Cassandra D. Chaney of Louisiana State University’s School of Social Work. “Safety, low crime rates, housing affordability, cost of living, and access to strong schools are among the most influential considerations. Employment opportunities also matter greatly; in states with higher resignation rates, such as Delaware, Alaska, South Carolina, Montana, and Wyoming, workers often have more leverage to obtain better wages or benefits, which can make these locations appealing for families. Healthcare access, community amenities, climate, and transportation options further shape the overall quality of life.”

Best States for FamiliesWorst States for Families
1. Massachusetts41. Georgia
2. Minnesota42. South Carolina
3. North Dakota43. Oklahoma
4. Wisconsin44. Arkansas
5. Nebraska45. Louisiana
6. New York46. Alabama
7. Connecticut47. Nevada
8. New Hampshire48. Mississippi
9. Illinois49. West Virginia
10. Maine50. New Mexico

Where does your state rank?


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