It is often said that environment matters greatly, and children growing up in different environments and cultural settings can be remarkably different. This is why many families go to great lengths to find the best schools and communities for their children.
To assess whether a place is suitable for a child’s growth and development, you need to evaluate it from multiple dimensions, such as educational resources, safety, cost of living, healthcare services, and community environment. If you are looking for the best states in the U.S. to raise your child, this article is for you.
Here, we evaluate various states in the U.S. based on different factors and introduce you to the 7 best child-friendly states. So, before you decide which state is best for you and start the relocation process with a moving company, take a look at our recommendations.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts stands out as the top state in the United States for raising children, according to WalletHub’s study. It holds an overall score of approximately 60.88. The state excels in education and childcare, ranking third, and in affordable housing, coming in sixth. Massachusetts also boasts one of the lowest infant mortality rates in the country, ranked fourth. This combination of factors makes it an excellent environment for child development and well-being.
Minnesota
Minnesota ranks as the second-best state for raising children, offering outstanding healthcare facilities that place it fifth in terms of health and safety. The state benefits from the second-lowest poverty rate, contributing to a high average income of about $94,000 and attractive job opportunities. Minnesota provides an affordable lifestyle and is noted for its strong education system, which is ranked eighth nationwide.
North Dakota
North Dakota is a commendable choice for families, rated as the third-best state for child-friendliness. It offers a top-tier education system, with a ranking of second in the country for education quality. The state also provides excellent healthcare, rated seventh for health and safety. Additionally, the cost of living in North Dakota is 5% lower than the national average, making it a cost-effective option for families.
New York
New York is rated as the fourth-best state for raising children, thanks to its top-notch education and childcare facilities, which are ranked sixth in the nation. Although the cost of living here is 17% higher than the U.S. average, New York provides excellent career opportunities and a variety of fun activities for families. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking both professional and recreational benefits.
Vermont
Ranked fifth for child-friendliness, Vermont offers much more than just its scenic lakes and outdoor activities. Known as the Green Mountain State, Vermont excels in children’s health and safety, holding the top spot in this category. It also ranks fifth for its education system, allowing children to pursue their desired courses with ease. Safety is a priority in Vermont, which has the fourth-lowest crime rate in the country. Additionally, Vermont stands out for its robust public health funding, contributing to its reputation as one of the healthiest states in America.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire is ranked as the sixth-best state in the U.S. for raising children, offering strong healthcare and education systems. The state is also noted for its affordability, coming in tenth for cost of living. In terms of protection from violent crime, New Hampshire ranks second, though it is less competitive in college affordability, where it is ranked 49th.
New Jersey
If you’re considering a state that’s great for children, New Jersey should definitely be on your list. It ranks among the top ten states in six out of nine categories crucial for children’s growth and development. These categories include safety from violent crime, healthcare, education facilities, daycare systems, and reliable broadband connectivity. While the cost of living is higher in New Jersey, the quality of services and facilities for your children makes it a worthwhile option.
All in all
A state that offers a high quality of education, excellent healthcare, and a safe environment can significantly impact a child’s growth and future success. Additionally, factors like affordable living, access to extracurricular activities, and a supportive community play a vital role in fostering a positive and nurturing environment for children. By carefully selecting a state that meets these criteria, you can provide your children with opportunities to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, ensuring a healthier and more fulfilling childhood.
