Raising a Family? These are the Best States to Call Home

If you’re planning to relocate with your family, choosing the right state can make all the difference. From access to top-notch schools and healthcare to community safety and quality of life, the best places to raise a family in the U.S. offer a balanced mix of opportunity and comfort. Whether you’re eyeing the suburbs, small towns, or family-friendly cities, here’s a look at the best states to raise a family—and why they might be the perfect place to call home.

Key Takeaways

• Massachusetts ranks as the best state for raising families, offering high educational standards, excellent healthcare, low crime rates, and job opportunities.
• Vermont, North Dakota, and Minnesota are also top contenders, providing affordable living, strong community support, and safe environments for children.
• Each of the top states emphasizes quality education, community engagement, and safety, making them ideal for families seeking a nurturing environment.

Massachusetts: A Top Choice for Young Families

According to WalletHub, Massachusetts ranks No. 1 for raising a family. This state boasts the highest rate of high school graduation, with over 90% of students receiving their diplomas. The state’s stellar educational systems provide children with an excellent start in life, solidifying Massachusetts as one of the best states for families.

Beyond education, Massachusetts excels in healthcare. Boasting the highest percentage of residents with health insurance, over 97%, the state provides families with access to quality healthcare. Furthermore, Massachusetts has the lowest premature death rate in the country, significantly contributing to residents’ well-being and health data.

Safety and job opportunities further enhance Massachusetts’s appeal. Families benefit from low crime rates and vibrant job markets, thriving in a secure and economically stable environment. Massachusetts ranks as the best state for families, offering a comprehensive package of benefits that other states strive to match.

Vermont: Ideal for Raising Children

Vermont ranks 2nd for raising families, primarily due to its extremely low crime rates and strong sense of community. Parents in Vermont tend to be assured that their children are growing up in a safe environment. The state’s community-oriented events, such as farmers’ markets and local festivals, provide ample opportunities for families to connect and build lasting relationships.

Access to quality healthcare is another significant advantage of living in Vermont. This provision ensures families receive the necessary medical attention, promoting children’s overall health and well-being. Additionally, Vermont’s outdoor activities, including hiking and skiing, offer families a scenic and active lifestyle.

With around 25% of households having school-aged kids, Vermont underscores its family-friendly nature. Vermont stands out as one of the best states in America for raising children in a supportive environment with ample community engagement opportunities.

North Dakota: Affordable and Safe

North Dakota is known for its affordability and safety, making it an attractive option for families. With a median home price of around $257,599 and a rent-to-income ratio of just 17.2%, housing costs remain manageable. Such financial stability enables families to invest more in their children’s futures and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Safety is a key aspect of North Dakota’s appeal. The state offers:

• Low crime rates make it a secure place to raise children
• Cities like Fargo and Bismarck that provide ample resources for families, including educational opportunities and recreational activities
• The lowest divorce rates in the U.S. contribute to stable family structures, despite concerns about high crime rates.

Economic opportunities abound in North Dakota, thanks to its strong focus on education and a financially secure population. Residents, with an average credit score of 733, which is above the national average, are well-positioned to provide a positive educational environment for their children. North Dakota’s blend of affordability, safety, and economic stability makes it one of the best places to raise a family.

New Hampshire: Quality Life in a Scenic Setting

In 2025, New Hampshire ranks 5th among states to raise a family. The state offers a strong sense of community, excellent public services, and low crime rates, making it ideal for families in the nation. These combined factors create a supportive and safe environment for young families to thrive. Hawaii ranks among the top destinations for those seeking a different lifestyle.

New Hampshire’s scenic beauty enhances its appeal. The state’s picturesque landscapes offer numerous outdoor activities for families to enjoy together. From hiking in the mountains to exploring beautiful lakes, there’s always something to do in New Hampshire.

New Hampshire offers a quality of life for families, balancing safety, community, and natural beauty in a world where families can live, grow, and enjoy the best life has to offer.

Minnesota: Vibrant and Supportive Communities

Ranking 4th, Minnesota is one of the top choices for young families. The state is renowned for its vibrant and supportive communities, fostering a nurturing environment for children. Minnesota’s cultural richness and balanced cost of living contribute to a high quality of life for families.

Minnesota’s community characteristics include diverse opportunities and quality public services. These elements provide families with the resources they need to thrive. Minnesota offers a well-rounded environment for raising children, with excellent schools and recreational facilities.

Beyond its supportive communities, Minnesota offers a variety of activities and events for families to enjoy together. This sense of community and belonging makes Minnesota one of the best states for families seeking a vibrant and enriching lifestyle.

Iowa: Rural Charm with Strong Education

Iowa stands out due to its combination of rural charm and strong education. Families in Iowa benefit from a rural lifestyle with excellent schools, healthcare, and supportive communities near rivers. The state’s affordable living and focus on education and child development create an environment where families can thrive.

Iowa offers abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, with parks and trails for family activities. Towns like Medina, Chanhassen, and Shorewood blend rural charm with family-friendly parks, quality educational resources, and year-round recreational activities.

With an average family home rent of $1,075 and a median home price of $232,100, Iowa is an affordable option for families. Iowa’s focus on education and strong community spirit make it an excellent choice for families seeking a rural lifestyle with top-notch educational opportunities.

Maine: Coastal Beauty and Community Support

Maine’s unique blend of coastal beauty and community support makes it appealing for families. With a ranking score of 71.38, Maine stands out as an excellent place for families. Maine boasts high educational standards, contributing to quality public services for families.

Its stunning coastal landscapes and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities are major attractions. Families can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and skiing in winter, making Maine ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Maine’s supportive community environment is crucial for families. The state offers a nurturing atmosphere where families can connect and thrive. Maine’s combination of natural beauty, high educational standards, and strong community support makes it one of the best states for raising a family.

Utah: Economic Stability and Family Policies

Utah ranks first in economic performance, blending substantial economic growth with a favorable business environment. Such economic stability makes Utah attractive for families, offering numerous opportunities for parents and children to thrive. Ranked 9th for raising a family, Utah has policies that support parents and children, as noted in a recent report.

Utah’s strong community networks play a significant role in creating a family-friendly environment. The state’s healthcare system is also relatively good, as reflected in its health and safety score of 68.89. Surveys show that Utah consistently ranks among the top states for emotional well-being and happiness, further enhancing its appeal for families.

Utah’s mix of economic stability, strong community networks, and family-friendly policies makes it one of the best states for families. Utah offers both economic opportunities and a supportive community.

Connecticut: Urban Living with Excellent Schools

Connecticut is renowned for its urban living and excellent education system. Ranking among the top five safest states in the U.S., Connecticut is a secure place for families. Cities like Bridport and New Haven offer a mix of cultural activities and job opportunities, creating a vibrant and quiet urban environment for families in the town.

About 30% of Connecticut’s population comprises families with school-aged children and adults of various age groups, supported by an impressive education system. This system ensures children receive a high-quality education, preparing them for future success and present opportunities.

The blend of safety, cultural richness, and excellent schools makes Connecticut appealing for families. Whether seeking urban living with top-notch education or a safe environment to raise children, Connecticut has it all.

Wyoming: Rural Living with Low Costs

Wyoming provides a rural lifestyle with lower living costs, making it attractive for families seeking affordability. With an average family home rent of approximately $1150, Wyoming’s living costs are substantially lower compared to the cheapest state, Florida, or California. Such affordability enables families to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.

With a population of approximately 576,641, Wyoming fosters a strong sense of community. Families in Wyoming benefit from a close-knit community essential for raising children. However, healthcare access in rural Wyoming may be limited, impacting families with specific medical needs.

Wyoming’s blend of low living costs, community feel, and rural charm makes it appealing for families in York. For an affordable place with a strong sense of community to raise your family, Wyoming is worth considering.

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Summary

Finding the best state to raise a family involves considering various factors, including safety, education, healthcare, and community support. Massachusetts stands out as the top choice, offering excellent educational systems, healthcare, and safety. Vermont and North Dakota follow closely, providing low crime rates and affordability.

New Hampshire and Minnesota offer a high quality of life with supportive communities and scenic beauty. Iowa and Maine provide unique blends of rural charm and strong education, while Utah’s economic stability and family-friendly policies make it an attractive option. Connecticut’s urban living and excellent schools, along with Wyoming’s affordability and rural charm, round out our list of the best states for raising a family.

Each state offers unique benefits that cater to different family needs. Whether you’re looking for vibrant city life or tranquil rural living, there’s a state on this list that can provide the perfect environment for your family to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions