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The 5 best states in America to raise a family — and the 5 worst

3 1
08.12.2025
1 / 12 List slidesThe 5 best states in America to raise a family — and the 5 worst List slides PreviousStart over Lifestyle

The 5 best states in America to raise a family — and the 5 worst

A recent analysis looked at all 50 states across metrics like affordability and safety to find the best for families

ByBen Kesslen Start Slideshow

Deciding where to put down roots is one of the most significant choices parents make for their children. 

And although each household has its own priorities, data regarding safety, costs, and schools can help you figure out which state could give you the strongest foundation for your family. 

A recent analysis by ConsumerAffairs, a customer news and review platform, looked at which states provide the best and worst conditions to raise a family.

ConsumerAffairs' research team evaluated all 50 states, analyzing data across five distinct categories: affordability, which carried the heaviest weight; safety; public education quality; access to health care; and general quality of life factors, such as air quality and the availability of libraries and parks.

Continue reading to see which states ranked the highest and lowest.

Start Slideshow

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5th best: New York 

Grace Cary / Getty Images

Despite high living costs, New York secures a top spot thanks to its generous state child tax credit and great public resources. The state ranks first in the nation for public education and offers strong healthcare access,........

© Quartz