America is filled with interesting and, at times, bizarre contributions to the world, each state unique in its own right. But while American citizens have united to accomplish many impressive and notable feats, there’s a beauty in how strikingly different each state is from one another. Discover the best and worst of each American state - from the sunny southern state of Florida to the crisp northern state of North Dakota. From astounding political accomplishments to unusual achievements. Which one will you find the most surprising?
The Best of Rhode Island: Donuts
It’s not only cops that love donuts in Rhode Island. It may be the smallest state in America (by area) yet it boasts the most donut shops per capita. If you’re visiting the sandy shores and colonial towns of Rhode Island and begin craving a decadent, deep-fried treat, you won’t have to look very far.
Rhode Island has a whopping 25 bakeries per 100,000 people. Those that live in the small state have to be incredibly disciplined to say “no” when the urge arises.
The Worst of Rhode Island: Public Transport
It’s a very good thing that Rhode Island is the smallest state by area because getting around on public transport can prove to be quite a challenge. US News has ranked the little state as the worst for transportation - for several reasons.
For example, the road and footbridge quality is quite dismal. To make matters worse, the buses break down regularly (with passengers on board). You’d think that such slack services would be affordable, yet Rhode Island’s public transport is also thought to be some of the most expensive.
The Best of Arkansas: Duck Hunting
Imagine having the off-beat honor of being the best state for duck hunting. Well, Arkansas doesn’t have to imagine as they proudly hold the title. The state welcomes countless hunters from all over the country to take part in the niche event of duck hunting.
The rice fields and flooded timber of the area go hand-in-hand with the late-season mallard shooting and so it’s no surprise that Arkansas harvests the most ducks each season. While this isn’t necessarily the greatest situation for the ducks, hunters are certain to have more success.
The Worst of Arkansas: Divorce
When two people commit to a marriage, they promise to spend the rest of their lives honoring the commitment. Sadly, several situations can inspire the ugly monster of divorce to rear its head and provide a legal opportunity to break off these vows. And if you want the chance of a successful marriage, then you may want to rethink living in Arkansas.
Arkansas has the highest divorce rate in the country, with approximately 23.4 divorces per every 1,000 people. That’s a lot of broken hearts, expensive lawyer fees, and failed marriages.
The Best in Connecticut: Making Money
They say that money makes the world go around, and this is particularly true in the state of Connecticut which boasts the highest per-person average income of $50,392. The average income in the US is roughly $48,672 - making Connecticut a lot more appealing.
It just makes you wonder what sort of industry contributes to such a lush opportunity to make money. When looking at the top 100 jobs that are more common in Connecticut than elsewhere, you’ll find occupations such as epidemiologists, actuaries, embalmers, and choreographers. That’s quite an eclectic mix!
The Worst in Connecticut: The Public Roads
While your job may pay well, getting there may not necessarily be as rewarding as the pay cheque in Connecticut. Why? The state is known to have some of the worst public roads in the country. Are you wondering how bad the public roads must be to make this list?
The state has at least 21,512 miles of public roads. Of these miles of infrastructure, over half of them are in poor condition. Although Connecticut may not be the worst in this area (the title sits with Washington D.C), it’s bad enough that they need to be noted.
The Best of Mississippi: Living Cheap
It’s incredible to imagine that some parts of the country are so expensive to live in that it cripples a budget, while others are miles ahead in affordability. Mississippi is one of the states that makes an expensive state, like Maine, seem like a joke.
Mississippi is known to be the cheapest state to live in. While the reasons for this are a little bit dubious, it’s interesting to know that residents of the southern state get to keep a great 49% of their income after taxes and living expenses. Not too shabby!
The Worst of Mississippi: Women’s Healthcare
It’s a good thing that the residents of Mississippi get to keep such a large percentage of their income, because a lot of it needs to be reserved for emergency private healthcare, particularly for women. Sadly, the state has the highest death rate from heart disease, breast cancer, and diabetes in women.
The lack of access and quality of healthcare has led to Mississippi being ranked as the worst state for healthcare. A shocking statistic reveals that 19% of adult residents decline healthcare because of the cost alone. How tragic!
The Best of Delaware: Small-Town Atmosphere
Even if you live for the hustle and bustle of big city life, you have to admit that there is a certain appeal that comes with small-town living. The friendly community and open hospitality of Delaware make it loved for the small-town atmosphere.
Did you know that there are only three counties in Delaware? Each is as close-knit as the other. The population of the cities maxes out at 100,000 people, and there’s a certain colonial-chic charm that simply can’t be found elsewhere.
The Worst of Delaware: No Nightlife
The downside to a small, charming state is the lack of excitement that comes with living big. With this in mind, Delaware was ranked last for its nightlife, with particular focus placed on its disappointing bar scene.
The disenchanting nightlife in Delaware is not only due to its awkward choice of nightclubs and bars but also because of other entertainment options. For example, Delaware has the lowest number of movie theaters per person. It looks like you’ll have to look for a dinner invite if you want to stay entertained past sundown.
The Best of Wisconsin: Raising a Family
Calling all potential parents! If you don’t live in Wisconsin and are looking to prioritize the safety of your future family, then you may want to plan the move. The midwestern state has the honorable title of being the best for raising a family.
An impressive 32 percent of America’s safest cities are within Wisconsin borders, making it the perfect spot to raise a family. This has been determined by assessing several factors, including the walkability of the area and the rate of violent crimes.
The Worst of Wisconsin: Racial Equality
Unfortunately, not all families have the same opportunities when living in Wisconsin. The cities may be safe, but they are not racially equal. It’s a sad reality, but the Badger State could do some work in the social justice department.
The unemployment rate for people of color is nearly triple that of white people. Also, people of color are 11 times more likely to be locked behind bars than white people. Due to statistics like these, Wisconsin is known to be the worst state for racial inequality.
The Best of Alabama: College Football
There’s a reason that the stereotype of the American football player is so iconic. The predictable story of young adults that peak in their teens and then grow a beer belly and a bald spot soon after is one that is told across the world. From all of these narratives, college football players from Alabama are the real shining stars.
The University of Alabama’s football team has won the most national football championships of any other state college team since 1936. Their achievements reach an impressive 11 wins, making them the best college football team in the United States.
The Worst of Alabama: Poverty
In 2017, the United Nations attempted the mammoth task of studying poverty and human rights across the country. These insights would be very helpful in alleviating certain issues by helping the government decide where to channel their human rights efforts and increase the quality of life. Unfortunately for Alabama, these statistics put the state on the map for the wrong reasons.
It was learned that Alabama has the worst poverty of any area in the developed world, with more than 800,000 people living below the poverty line. Of these individuals, 250,000 are children. Hopefully, the government will be inspired to fix this issue.
The Best of Hawaii: The Beaches
The tropical island is often forgotten to be a part of North America, but let’s not forget that Hawaii boasts some of the best beaches in the United States. This may not come as a surprise considering the stereotype of island living and the lush lifestyle that it offers.
Of all of this natural beauty, Maui’s Kapalua Bay Beach is the frontrunner, having been voted the best beach in America. Hapuna Beach, also in Hawaii, also made it to the top 10.
The Worst of Hawaii: Taxes
The government knows that people will pay a lot to live the island dream. Most times, paying taxes is a grudge payment but comes with the knowledge that our roads are maintained, garbage is collected and our health care is covered. Not so much in Hawaii.
The state is known to have the lowest return of investments for taxpayers. This deduction is made after looking at a medley of parameters including infrastructure, pollution, safety, health, and even education. We hope that the beach is worth it!
The Best of South Carolina: Sweet Tea
When you’re living in a state that has a sweltering average temperature of 90 degrees Fahrenheit in summer, you learn to appreciate a cold drink to cool you down. Sweet tea comes to the rescue for South Carolina residents and saves them from the hot and humid climate.
With so much emphasis placed on refreshment, it’s no wonder that South Carolina not only invented sweet tea but also produces it to perfection. In fact, Palmetto State is home to the country’s only commercial tea plantation.
The Worst of South Carolina: DUI Rates
Drinking and driving is a dangerous act that can cost people their lives and leave a trail of tragedy in its wake. Unfortunately for South Carolina residents, drunk driving accidents are a major risk. This is largely due to the incredibly high DUI rates.
The state has one of the highest numbers of total deaths from drunk or impaired driving. When you boil it down, the statistic is roughly 5.72 deaths per 100,000 people at the hands of a drunk driver.
The Best of Idaho: Home Ownership
You know that you’ve made it in life when you get the keys to your first home. Unfortunately for many, this comes at the expense of crippling mortgage payments. Luckily for those living in Idaho, owning a home isn’t as daunting.
Idaho has been ranked as the number one state for aspiring homeowners. This is due to the affordability of property and the low foreclosure rates. After moving to Idaho, you may have your white picket fence sooner than you think!
The Worst of Idaho: Cyberbullying
The internet is a cruel, cruel place, and no one knows that better than people living in Idaho. The online world has opened up a whole new platform for people to be bullied and have their confidence torn down.
Idaho has been ranked as the worst state for cyberbullying. This is particularly the case for kids who are bullied online and on social media. In fact, one in five Idaho high school students have reported being cyberbullied at some point.
The Best of Iowa: Buying a House
Similar to Idaho, the state of Iowa is known to be an aspiring homeowner’s dream. While Idaho is known for affordability and low foreclosure rates, Iowa is known to have some of the most affordable houses on the market.
When browsing potential homes with an estate agent in the midwestern state, you’ll find that the median price tag for a home is very appealing, settling at an estimated $181,900. Not a bad deal if you enjoy the view of rolling plains and cornfields!
The Worst of Iowa: Lack of Innovation
Iowa has a lot of things going for it. We’ve already mentioned that the affordability of buying a home is fantastic, but they are also the nation’s top pork producer and harvest more corn than any other state. With 85% of the state’s land being used for agriculture, it should be no surprise that they are not ranked very highly for innovation.
Forbes ranked Iowa 44th on the list of innovative states. This low ranking is largely due to the low number of science and engineering graduates as well as the low share the state has in tech companies. Well, we can’t all be the same as Silicone Valley!
The Best of Kansas: Roads
Nothing can quite compare to the feeling of putting a car into gear and opening up to drive a smooth road. For those living in Kansas, they can live this dream daily as the state is known to have the least amount of badly maintained roadways in the nation.
USA Today revealed that only one percent of roads in Kansas are considered unserviceable. This makes the Kansas roads smooth sailing and quite pleasant to drive on - with very few potholes to cause any bumps.
The Worst of Kansas: Human Trafficking
Kansas has a dark blemish on its reputation. Being known for human trafficking is a very sinister reason to be added to the list of “worst” for each state, yet Kansas has some of the worst human trafficking statistics in recent years.
In fact, human trafficking has reached exponential levels, with the Executive Director for the Topeka Rescue Mission saying, "We thought that that was probably a lot for this area, the next year it was 45, the next year it was 92, and last year was 131.” Stay safe!
The Best of Louisiana: Dating
Louisiana is the best state for dating as Louisiana has the highest number of unmarried adults. This could easily be misconstrued as having the worst luck with dating because of the disastrous options available, or it could be that everyone is having far too much fun being single to mingle. We’re going to go with the latter.
Louisiana is known for its dating scene, and we can’t say that this is a bad thing. After all, who doesn’t love to be picked up from home, wine-d, and dined, and experience the butterflies that come with a first kiss.
The Worst of Louisiana: Unhealthy Diet
Convenience food has made us all accustomed to readily available meals that are filled with preservatives, unhealthy fats, and sugars. In Louisiana, this unhealthy diet has become a part of daily life and a dismal 69% of the nation’s adults admit to eating vegetables once a day.
In fairness, the state does lack a steady supply of fresh products. However, the high rate of obesity should get citizens to think twice about their lifestyle. Regardless, Louisiana residents are known to have some of the unhealthiest diets.
The Best of Arizona: The Sunshine
Step aside Florida, because Arizona is actually the sunniest state in America. The southern state receives a huge amount of sunshine, making the mountainous region a bright and beautiful place to live.
So, how much sunshine does Arizona receive? Yuma, the county seat of Arizona, receives a whopping 90 percent chance of sun every day, making it the sunniest place in the whole world. There’s even a popular zombie-apocalypse video game, named Arizona Sunshine, that is set in a fictional town called Sunshine. Now that’s catchy!
The Worst of Arizona: The Teacher Turnover
If you’re a teacher or want to pursue a career in educating young minds, then you may want to avoid settling down in Arizona. The state is known to be the worst for teachers, with an astounding turnover rate and high teacher-to-student ratio.
In 2013, a whopping 42% of teachers that took up a position had quit the profession entirely within three years (or less). This high-turnover is not necessarily a reflection of the students, but rather because of low pay and the burden of a demanding job.
The Best of Maine: Owning Dogs
They say that dog is man’s best friend, and the people of Maine know this to be true. The state of Maine is known to be the best for owning dogs, with no discrimination or restrictions on the breed.
Whether you own a tiny pomeranian or a larger-than-life golden retriever, they are sure to have a wonderful time living in Maine. Not only do people tend to love canines in the state, but there are at least 76 dog-friendly beaches for them to enjoy.
The Worst of Maine: High Cost of Living
Unfortunately for the average citizen living in Maine, it’s not necessarily a dog’s life. The cities in the state may be beautiful and charming, but living in them comes at a cost. Being a resident of Maine is no cheap experience.
The annual cost of living in Maine is 14% above the national average, and the rental fees are some of the highest in the country. This high cost of living would be manageable if it weren’t for the low median wage which makes living in Maine an expensive option.
The Best of Massachusetts: Being Healthy
Normally, Hawaii dominates the list of the healthiest states in America. After all, they live off of the ocean breeze, fresh fruit, and good vibes. However, for the first time in five years, Massachusetts shot to the top of the list and took the title of being the healthiest state in the country.
This health encompasses both physical and mental health. For example, Massachusetts boasts the lowest obesity rate and the most mental health providers per population. Way to go Massachusetts!
The Worst of Massachusetts: Drinking Laws
To keep its citizens healthy and reduce the risk of drinking-related tragedies, Massachusetts has incorporated some of the harshest drinking laws in the United States. It all started when the state decided to ban happy hour in 1984. And it's been downhill for binge drinkers since then.
For example, patrons are not allowed to order more than two drinks at one time, even if they are buying for their friends. Stores are also especially strict on identification, with some only accepting ID cards from Massachusetts state!
The Best of Indiana: Renting Homes
Mortgage payments can deeply affect a family's finances. In fact, many people can’t even afford to get a loan and have no option but to rent a home instead of buy. However, many of those living in Indiana choose to rent regardless of whether they can afford a home or not.
The affordability of rent in Indiana is so appealing that lots of people prefer to rent the roof over their heads than fork out to purchase one. The high affordability is reflective in the state having one of the lowest average monthly rentals, coming in at just $806 per month.
The Worst of Indiana: Pollution
The benefit of owning a home is that you can ventilate the building as much as you want. When renting a home in Indiana, you hope that the owners think ahead and do the same, especially considering that the state is known for its high level of air pollution.
Indiana's coal plants may generate a lot of electricity, but they also contribute 40 million pounds of toxic fumes, giving the state the unfortunate title of being the most polluted in America.
The Best of Michigan: Golfing
Golfing has earned a valuable and unique role in society. It’s a way to connect with potential clients, bond with your future father-in-law, and catch up with some mates. So much joy can be derived from a little, white ball and a set of clubs. Citizens in Michigan know this all too well.
Michigan State is known to have the most golf courses and country clubs per capita. One perk of this statistic is that you have options on where to enjoy your time on the green without crowds.
The Worst of Michigan: Identity Theft
There is very little that is as unsettling as having your identity taken from you. This happens in various ways such as stolen credit cards, ID cards, and other means of fraud. In Michigan, it's estimated that there are 151 complaints of identity theft per 1,000 people.
In 2017, a whopping 15,000 cases of identity theft were reported, with the majority being related to government documents or benefits. It seems you have to keep your wits about you when living in Michigan!
The Best of Colorado: Being Active
There are countless benefits of being physically active. It’s challenging to be unhappy when your heart is strong, dopamine is regularly released and you beat a personal best for a run. Also, there are several long-term benefits to being fit - just ask the residents of Colorado.
Yes, Colorado is at the top of the list of the most physically active states. As a result of their efforts, they also have some of the lowest obesity rates and some of the fittest civilians. But it’s not all sunshine and roses in the state of the physically active...
The Worst of Colorado: Drug Overdoses
There are other ways to get a dopamine hit, and unfortunately, they are not all as positive for the body. In a dark twist of events, Colorado has one of the highest death rates from drug overdoses.
In some counties in Colorado, the death rate from drug overdoses has doubled in the last decade. This statistic is largely thanks to painkillers such as Percocet and Oxycontin. However, the state is also plagued by the presence of Fentanyl and Methadone, with almost every county having a higher overdose rate than the national average.
The Best of Minnesota: Credit Scores
At first, you may think that Minnesota is best known for its gorgeous lakes or perhaps even its high number of flour mills and butter-making plants. However, Minnesota is also very well known for its excellent credit scores.
The consumers of Minnesota have the highest credit-worthiness in the country. In St. Paul, in particular, the average credit score is 709 out of 850. Needless to say, the citizens of Minnesota look a lot more appealing to lenders than in other states.
The Worst of Minnesota: Winters
Winter can be magical and romantic. Snow-capped mountains, cups of warm cocoa, and a roaring fire paint the perfect picture of intimate coziness. However, winter can also be miserable and the snow can be debilitating. This is often the case in Minnesota.
With some areas in Minnesota receiving a crazy 170 inches of snow each year and experiencing temperatures of - 60 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s no wonder that the state has been voted for having the most miserable winters in the country!
The Best of Texas: Starting Businesses
For a long time, California was known as the place to be for budding entrepreneurs. As time has passed, Texas has taken over as the top spot to start a business. There is a monumental amount of job growth, a lot of venture capital, and an overall start-up-friendly atmosphere.
If you’re looking to start a successful business, then you may want to relocate to Texas. Before long, we could see some of the latest innovations and business brain waves coming out of the state - just wait and see!
The Worst of Texas: Dental Health
It’s very easy to let oral hygiene slide to the wayside. Unless someone points out that your breath stinks and that your teeth are turning yellow, you could overlook the responsibility entirely - especially if you live in Texas.
Texas is known to have the highest percentage of adults with poor oral hygiene. Not only do they neglect their molars, but the decision ends up negatively affecting their lives. Note to self: never skip a visit to the dentist or you could be in a lot of pain.
The Best of Missouri: Charitable Hearts
There’s something to be said about living in a community that has a mind and heart for fellow citizens. We’re all born into different situations that are out of our control, but at the end of the day, humanity relies on one another for wholesome living.
Missouri residents understand the need to help one another and have topped the charts for their charity. St. Louis, in particular, ranks among the most charitable cities in the United States with special mention of their transparency, size, and accountability.
The Worst of Missouri: Tornado
It would make sense that Missouri’s charitable heart comes with a shared understanding of difficulty. The state is known to have its fair share of natural disasters. Missouri may not get a lot of storms, but their location in Tornado Alley means that they do experience a very high number of tornadoes.
How many is a high number? Well, roughly 47 tornadoes tear through Missouri every year. While some of these are mild in force, others are violent and cause a lot of damage. Best to invest in a home with a solid bunker!
The Best of Montana: Raising Cats
Maine is known for owning dogs, and Montana is best for raising cats. For some reason, cats thrive in Montana and seem to have a longer lifespan when being cared for in the stunning, nature-loving state than elsewhere.
The average lifespan for cats being raised in Montana is 14.3 years. This is more than two years higher than the national average. We wouldn’t be surprised if there was an increased number of cat ladies settling down in the northwestern state. How puuur-fect!
The Worst of Montana: Internet Access
If you’re looking to live the life of a digital nomad, then you may struggle to settle down in Montana. The state may have beautiful natural surroundings and a large number of cats, but they don’t have very good internet access.
Montana is known to have the worst internet access out of all 50 states. This is not ideal if you’re working in tech or rely on heavy downloads. But it’s not all doom and gloom in America’s fourth-largest state, as Montana has become the first to enact its own net neutrality law.
The Best of Virginia: Patriotism
Virginia residents are known to fly The Stars and Stripes with bold pride and honor. The southeastern state has the reputation as the most patriotic state in America and even has the nickname of being the Old Dominion because of their loyalty to the English Civil War.
Not only is Virginia close to the nation's capital, Washington D.C, but eight of America’s 45 presidents were born and raised in Virginia. The national loyalty of Virginia residents is admirable and endearing.
The Worst of Virginia: Snakes
Some people hate spiders, others are fearful of bugs. But if you’re scared of snakes, then you may want to steer clear of Virginia. The state has an astronomical number of snakes that live within the borders.
While many of these snakes are harmless, there are a few that are worthy of your fear. Perhaps most dangerous is the long eastern copperhead, the aggressive rattlesnake, and the water-loving cottonmouth. If you live in Virginia, then it’s best to keep a shot of anti-venom handy in case of an emergency.
The Best of Nebraska: Graduating High School
Nestled in the midwest of the United States, Nebraska boasts expansive prairies and dramatic rock formations - as well as a high education rate. Did you know that Nebraska is leading the pack in the United States with the highest rate of high school graduations?
An impressive 93.7 percent of students graduate from Nebraska high schools, giving a good indication of how the institutions serve the students. If you’re looking for a positive schooling career, then Nebraska is a fantastic choice!
The Worst of Nebraska: Flooding
Nebraska burns hot and cold. The location of the state means that it gets extreme weather conditions that range from deep snowfall in winter to sweltering heat in summer. This can be enjoyable at times, but the byproduct of the extremes is a lot of flooding.
The flooding is largely caused by snow melting and having nowhere to go. Recently, the state experienced the worst flooding in recorded history, with someone even losing their life in the process while trying to save a stranded motorist. How tragic!
The Best of Nevada: Rock Climbing
The western state of Nevada is known for many things, including its gambling and entertainment scene. But more prolific than these iconic stereotypes is Nevada’s rich minerals and landscape. Thanks to the mountains that rise across the state, Nevada is known to have the best rock climbing opportunities.
There are over 300 named ranges in the state, including Red Rock Canyon and Boundary Peak which attracts avid rock climbers from all over the world. Those living in Nevada have these opportunities on their doorstep!
The Worst of Nevada: Public Schools
People often underestimate the powerful role that education plays in the future of the youth. Unfortunately for those living in Nevada, the lack of funding and poor test scores has positioned the state as the second-lowest for their graduation rate.
The schooling system in Nevada is notoriously known for receiving uneven funding and the system is considered the worst in the country. That’s quite disappointing considering how beautiful the state is and how much potential it holds. Seems like the education system is not as golden as the minerals in the state.
The Best of New Hampshire: Low Unemployment Rate
Struggling to find a job is one of the most stressful situations to find yourself in, especially if you’re supporting a family. Luckily for residents living in New Hampshire, the concern of unemployment is not particularly high.
New Hampshire boasts one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, with only 2.7 percent of the locals living without jobs. If the quaint towns and large expanses of the wilderness don’t allure you to the state, then perhaps the low unemployment rate will!
The Worst of New Hampshire: High College Tuition
It’s a good thing that there is very little unemployment in New Hampshire because the college fees cost a pretty penny. In fact, students in the northern state struggle with the highest tuition costs in the country.
With the average tuition fee being higher than the national average, many students think twice before enrolling. As a result of these steep fees, the state also experiences the highest rate of student debt. That’s a lot less drinking money for your time in college in New Hampshire!
The Best of West Virginia: Pizza
Our gut instinct is to say that New York has the best pizza in the United States. The perfect balance between cheesy goodness and crisp dough that can be bought in NYC is hard to beat. However, New York can’t have both bagels and pizza, and that’s where West Virginia comes in.
The Mountain State may be best known for its natural beauty and historical value, but it also boasts a steady supply of pizza. A recent study has revealed that West Virginia has the most pizza shops per capita - now that’s a surprise!
The Best of West Virginia: Smoking
Ah, West Virginia, why do you have to let us down like this? You were doing so well with your number of pizza parlors, but smoking is a nasty habit. As you may have guessed, West Virginia is the state with the most number of smokers.
Nearly a quarter of the adult population is addicted to the rush of nicotine and light up regularly. On the plus side, West Virginia is not the state with the highest cases of lung cancer.
The Best of New Jersey: Diners
The American diner is a scene that is made famous all around the world. This stereotype is only fortified in films such as Pulp Fiction and has become a staple part of American life - especially in the state of New Jersey.
The northeastern state has been appropriately nicknamed the “Diner Capital of the World” with over 500 venues serving the typical fluffy pancakes, fried chicken, and bottomless coffee. These old-fashioned diners bring a certain element of nostalgia and New Jersey wouldn’t have it any other way!
The Worst of New Jersey: Property Taxes
Owning property is often viewed as a huge achievement in life and a milestone in adulthood, however, the costs of owning property are often overlooked. One of these required payments is property taxes and they are particularly bad in New Jersey.
New Jersey is known to have some of the most expensive property taxes in the country. While the national average is approximately $3,999, owning a property in New Jersey will cost you a heart-dropping average of $8,696 in property taxes alone!
The Best of Alaska: The Great Outdoors
Alaska is known to be diverse in landscape and expansive in its offerings. If you’re looking for an escape in nature that allows you to get lost in the beauty of the world, then Alaska has everything that you need.
Together with Arizona, Alaska had dedicated the largest percentage of land for national parks. Whether you’re taken by hiking the trails in the Denali National Park, exploring icy caps of Glacier Bay by canoe, or cruising along the mountain bike trails in Alyeska Bike Park - there’s something for everyone.
The Worst of Alaska: Expensive Living
It would seem that living with the breathtaking beauty of Alaska comes at a cost. To wake up every morning, drive a short distance to a national park, and breathe in the fresh air is a luxury that comes at the cost of some of the highest utility bills in the country.
Essentially, this boils down to long winters and the desperate need to stay warm. Also, grocery prices are typically higher as most citizens live remotely. In this instance, 'supply and demand' is a lesson to consider. The more isolated that you live, the more you pay for food.
The Best of New Mexico: Most Doctorate Degrees
Education is held in great esteem around the world. Knowledge is power and a doctorate is at the height of educational knowledge. When it comes to the state with the most doctorate degrees in the country, New Mexico is at the top of the list.
The vibrant and cultural state of New Mexico is proud to have the most PhDs per capita. It’s suspected that this high rate of doctorates is due to the many governments and private research facilities that have been set up in the state.
The Worst of New Mexico: Car Theft
Unfortunately for those living in New Mexico, safety is a concern. For example, the state has the second-highest rate of violent crime in the country. But even worse than the high risk of violent crime is the chance of having your vehicle stolen.
New Mexico has the highest rate of stolen vehicles and has held the notorious titles for a couple of years in a row. Needless to say, it’s important to make safety a top priority when living in the southern state - no matter how relaxed you may feel at the time.
The Best of New York: Bagels
New York has many great things going for them. For example, the infamous New York City and its bustling metropolis as well as the heavy-flowing Niagara Falls are two contrasting perks of the state. But topping both of these attributes is New York’s bagels which are out of this world.
The northeastern state has somehow managed to perfect the boiled and baked dough treat that is both crispy on the crust and also melts in your mouth. New York has had plenty of time to perfect their recipe, with the first bagels store opening in the heart of the Big Apple in the early 1900s.
The Worst of New York: Food Safety
Considering that bagels help to put New York on the map, it’s difficult to imagine a food item ruining its cred. However, food safety in New York is some of the worst in the country and the high number of food poisoning cases has added a black dot next to New York’s name.
New York is ranked at the top of the list of states with the most cases of food poisoning. These outbreaks are largely attributed to norovirus as well as salmonella and scombroid poisoning.
The Best of Illinois: Pumpkins
If you live in Illinois and you love Halloween, then you’re in luck. The state is known to grow an impressive 95 percent of the country’s pumpkins - now that’s an achievement to be proud of!
As you can imagine, fall in Illinois is all the more festive because of the bountiful produce. Pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin soup, pumpkin fritters, and pumpkin carvings are all synonymous with the state. Now, all that you need is the gentle turning of the leaves to add to the atmosphere.
The Worst of Illinois: Bug Bites
There’s nothing worse than attempting to spend time outdoors and connect with nature only to be attacked by a swarm of bugs. Unfortunately, there’s a high chance of this happening when you live in the Midwestern state of Illinois.
Illinois has some of the highest rates of mosquito-related illnesses as well as tick-borne diseases. These include the West Nile virus and Lyme’s disease which can affect your health in a nasty way. When living in Illinois, make sure that you keep your insect repellant handy!
The Best of North Carolina: Millennial Living
Various generations have stark differences in the way that they live life, think about society and respond to certain triggers. In many ways, we’re living in the era of the millennial, and North Carolina is known to be the best place for millennials looking to settle down.
Thanks to Durham, which is located in the southeastern state, North Carolina is one of the best states for millennial living. Durham, in particular, is ranked first for increased job opportunities and low affordability which is essentially every millennial's dream.
The Worst of North Carolina: STD Rates
On the downside, millennials aren’t the most conservative in their behavior and this can lead to a careless lifestyle. This could be why North Carolina has some of the highest STD rates in the United States.
The number of STDs in North Carolina has been steadily rising and the state is now known to have some of the highest rates for contagious sexually transmitted diseases. These include syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. We can only hope that preventive measures are made more available sooner rather than later.
The Best of North Dakota: Saving Money
You can teach someone a lot of life lessons, but they have to be willing to learn. We all know that it’s important to save for the future, but putting your money where your mouth is can be a lot more challenging in practice.
However, residents of North Dakota have their savings plans waxed. In fact, a recent survey revealed that the midwestern state is the best at saving money, with the highest number of adults owning savings accounts. Now that’s forward-thinking!
The Worst of North Dakota: Binge Drinking
There’s no harm in having a glass of wine with dinner or a casual beer after work. The danger comes in drinking excessively and allowing alcohol to negatively impact your life on a greater scale. Unfortunately for those living in North Dakota, locals have a higher risk of binge drinking than the rest of the nation.
The state ranks the worst when it comes to binge drinking habits. A shocking 25 percent of adults reportedly drink excessively regularly. As you can imagine, this has a knock-on effect and has led to a high number of alcohol-related driving deaths.
The Best of Kentucky: Fried Chicken
The state of Kentucky had no option but to earn a gold medal and dedicated shout out for their fried chicken. KFC has become a global success and made ‘Kentucky Fried Chicken’ a household name. Even Colonel Sanders has become a recognized cartoon-figure.
However, Kentucky became known for its fried chicken long before the fast-food franchise hit the billboards. There’s something about the deep-fried chicken and its golden crispiness that sends shivers of joy down our spines and gets us salivating on the spot.
The Worst of Kentucky: Lung Cancer Rates
You’d think that all of the fried chicken would contribute to a high rate of heart disease, but residents of Kentucky struggle with something else - lung cancer. Unfortunately, the estimated chance of survival for people diagnosed with the disease is only 56% for five years, if the cancer is still localized.
Of all of the states in America, Kentucky has the highest rate of lung cancer diagnoses. Lung cancer is most commonly attributed to smoking but can also be caused by toxic air pollution. As a result, Kentucky experiences 96.8 new lung cancer diagnoses per 1,000 people.
The Best of Ohio: Predicting Elections
There’s a certain joy that comes with the announcement of your presidential candidate winning the elections. When you back a politician's policies and they win, there’s a feeling of triumph and hope. If you don’t understand this feeling then just ask the people of Ohio who have a knack for voting for the winning candidate.
Ohio has managed to vote for the winning candidate in every election since 1896, with the exception of two years (1944 and 1960 when Roosevelt and Kennedy won respectively).
The Worst of Ohio: Allergies and Asthma
Have you ever had uncontrollable sneezing while cleaning the house? Or visited the countryside and had your chest close up? Many people living in Ohio are all too familiar with the struggle of allergies and asthma.
The Natural Resources Defence Council has said that Ohio is the worst state for asthma and allergies. This is largely due to pollen score and the frequency of medication among other factors. To add salt to injury, seven of the top 35 cities for allergies and asthma are located in the Buckeye State.
The Best of Wyoming: No Crowds
Every year, millions of tourists flock to the breathtaking national parks in the landlocked state of Wyoming. Tourism in the state pivots on its natural beauty and open spaces - which is why Wyoming is known (and loved) for its few crowds.
There are only 560,000 residents in the Cowboy state, making it the least populated of the 50 in America. To put this into perspective, the city of Nashville has more people living in it than the entirety of Wyoming!
The Worst of Wyoming: Technology Jobs
Wyoming has a booming mineral extraction industry, a bustling agriculture setup, and a coveted tourism drawcard. What Wyoming doesn’t have is a big selection of technology-centric jobs. In fact, they have the lowest percentage in the whole of America.
Only 2 percent of the workforce consists of tech jobs, which makes Wyoming a terrible place to live if you’re looking for a career in IT. However, with such a beautiful landscape, we can’t blame the locals for pursuing a different path...
The Best of Oklahoma: Barbecue
It’s difficult to be unhappy in life when your state ranks number one for having the best barbecue in the country. Hosting a barbecue is a family favorite, with the smell of meat on the fire being synonymous with laughter, good drinks, and fun memories.
Oklahoma is the proud owner of the most barbecue restaurants per capita, making it incredibly easy to satisfy your deep desire for some marinated meat cooked to perfection. Sorry vegetarians, Oklahoma may not be your top choice!
The Worst of Oklahoma: Walking
If you rely on the activity of walking to stay fit and healthy, then you may want to pick another state to settle in. Oklahoma may have a barbecue going for it, but it most certainly lacks the opportunity to walk off the calories.
Oklahoma City, in particular, has earned the worst walking score in the country. There’s a lot of traffic in the city and very few sidewalks. These two factors, among others, have contributed to the state’s low walkability.
The Best of Maryland: Making Millions
Maryland is the state for millionaires, with at least one in every 12 households having $1 million to their name. The beautiful, coastal state attracts some of the biggest high rollers and has earned a reputation for having the highest rate of seven-figure salaries.
Before you think that this money is simply passed from one generation to the next, keeping the circle tight, you may be interested to learn that the number of millionaires in Maryland is constantly rising. If you’ve always aspired to be a millionaire then Maryland may be for you...
The Worst of Maryland: Bed Bugs
All the money in the world can’t necessarily keep you safe from pesky bugs. At the end of the day, nature will dominate and there’s a good chance that you’ll wake up covered in bites - especially if you live in Maryland.
Maryland is known for its high chance of bed bugs. In particular, Baltimore has earned a notorious reputation for the little devils. The city has been at the top of the list of cities with the most bed bug infestations for the second year in a row.
The Best of Oregon: Brewing Beer
Now here’s a feat to be proud of! Oregon is known for its amazing beer brewing abilities. The city of Portland has highlighted Oregon as a state that is best renowned for brewing beer. Can you guess why?
Oregon is the city with the most number of breweries in the whole world - let alone America. Luckily for the locals, this beer isn’t produced mostly for export but is enjoyed by the city slickers. Overall, Oregon residents spend more money on craft beer than any other state in the United States.
The Worst of Oregon: Rate of Sex Offenders
Unfortunately, no state can be perfect and Oregon’s biggest downfall is the high rate of sex offenders. This is a very serious issue to be known for and should not be taken lightly.
In addition to having a steady supply of beavers in the state, Oregon also has a large number of sex offenders. In fact, they have the highest number in the whole of America, with a shocking 676 people per 100,000 being guilty. Even worse, the state has a heartbreaking 42 rapes per capita.
The Best of Pennsylvania: Hunting
Hunting is an age-old act that started off as a survival tactic and has progressed to be a sport. The trick to hunting is to do it responsibly and sustainably. One method to control hunting is to give license to individuals who want to partake - and Pennsylvania has the highest number of licensed hunters.
Overall, there are an estimated 20 licensed hunters per square mile. That’s a lot of gunfire and hunting activity in the designated parks during the season.
The Worst of Pennsylvania: Risk of Deer
This shouldn’t be too surprising considering that Pennsylvania is a hunting state. There are a lot of wild animals in Pennsylvania, varying in size. The animals live on the 20 state forests that cover a distance of 2.2 million acres. It’s no wonder that there is a risk of deer wandering into the street.
Pennsylvania has the highest chance of hitting a deer on the road. In fact, the northeastern state is considered a “high risk” state with hundreds of thousands of reports of accidents every year. Naturally, this has a knock-on effect on insurance which is pretty steep - thanks deer!
The Best of California: Diversity
If you’re a minority looking for a population that reflects your identity, then California may be the ideal destination to live for you. California is considered to be a “minority-majority” state which means that there is no single ethnic group or race that makes up the majority.
As a state made up of a melting pot of cultures, California is loved as the most diverse state of America. It would seem that there’s a lot more to the state than beautiful surfing beaches, national parks like Yosemite, and the playful wonder of Disneyland.
The Worst of California: Quality of Life
There’s little to no point in living among kindred spirits if your quality of life is disappointingly low. Several social and environmental factors have contributed to California having the notorious title of being the state with the worst quality of life.
Los Angeles is the perfect example of a broken dream, with low water quality, low air quality, and equally abhorrent infrastructure. California, which was once a dream state, is experiencing a mass exodus. It would seem that there’s a lot more to the state of Tinseltown than what meets the eye - and it’s not all good.
The Best of South Dakota: Retirement
We work our entire lives to settle down and live in the lap of luxury. At least, that’s the dream. In some states, it can be a challenge to make this a reality as inflation and a high cost of living costs a lot of money. Luckily for those living in South Dakota, the dream retirement is more of a realistic option.
A combination of low taxes and high quality of life makes the midwestern state an excellent option for settling down in your final years.
The Worst of South Dakota: Prisons
The topic of prisons and criminal rehabilitation has become a hot topic for debate. Yet whichever stand you take, we can all agree that prisons are not a great place to end up, especially if you live in South Dakota.
Prisons in South Dakota are known to have some of the worst living standards in the country. Their institutions struggle to keep up with the number of prisoners and have even had to release prisoners to free up space. Perhaps the most shocking about South Dakota prisons is knowing that the state puts people with mental health issues behind bars instead of helping them get the medical help that they need.
The Best of Tennessee: Fast Wi-Fi
We live in a time when we expect instant connectivity and a fast-loading web page. It’s come to the point where 40 percent of visitors will leave a website if the loading process takes more than 3 seconds. In Tennessee, this is seldom an issue.
The southeastern state is known for having the fastest Wi-Fi. And we’re not only talking about being a fraction faster. In fact, the internet speed in Tennessee is an incredible 50 times quicker than the national average.
The Worst of Tennessee: Childhood Obesity Rates
As a parent, it’s your responsibility to raise your child to the best of your ability. This includes providing education, a roof over your child's head, and feed them a healthy, balanced diet. Unfortunately for the children in Tennessee, a large percentage of them struggle with obesity from a young age.
Whether it’s too much screen time or an unhealthy diet, at least 38 percent of children in the state are either overweight or obese. Time to swap out the fast-food for a healthy snack!
The Best of Utah: Low Student Debt
Life as a student can be great - with lots of parties, freedom from parental control, and the opportunity to dive into a new community. In the same breath, being a student can introduce a few challenges - like student debt. Luckily for students in Utah, this expense is less of a concern.
Of all the states, Utah has some of the lowest student debt statistics. In fact, the state was the only one to average student debt to be less than $20,000. Not too bad!
The Worst of Utah: Workplace Equality
Considering that we people spend an average of 8 hours a day working for a company, it’s important to not only love your job but also the people that you work for and the culture that they encourage. Unfortunately for citizens in Utah, workplace equality is less than ideal.
Not only does Utah have the highest gender pay gap, but the state also has the worst male to female executive ratio. Keep up with the times, Utah, you’re falling behind!
The Best of Vermont: Being Happy
This may seem like a silly achievement to be known for, but it’s one of the most rewarding. When you talk to people and ask what they hope to achieve out of life, many will tell you that they strive to be happy. For many living in Vermont, this is their reality.
The northeastern state is known to be one of the happiest states in America, with the island state of Hawaii also considered being a top contender for the title.
The Worst of Vermont: Fast-Food Restaurants
This isn’t exactly a bad thing, but Vermont is known to have the lowest number of fast-food restaurants per capita. Overall, this is a good thing for the health and wellbeing of citizens, yet fast-food junkies may find the 1.9 drive-thrus per 10,000 people a frustration.
Perhaps this healthy diet is one of the contributing factors to Vermont being one of the happiest states in America? At the end of the day, Vermont is a place that you want to avoid if you rely on a daily diet of grease and sugary treats.
The Best of Georgia: Growing Onions
Normally, cutting onions will make one cry. But the presence of onions makes Georgia locals smile. Although Georgia has been dubbed the Peach State, the true value lies in the ability to produce copious amounts of Vidalia onions.
Vidalia onions are named after the main town where they are grown and are known to be some of the world’s sweetest onions. However, they are only grown in 20 of the 159 counties in the southern state. Regardless, this is enough to make Georgia known (and loved) for their onions!
The Worst of Georgia: Traffic
If you live in a city that is notorious for traffic, then you’ve probably come up with a few ways to pass the time. Perhaps you call your loved ones for a (Bluetooth) catch up. Or maybe you enjoy listening to podcasts. But at some point, enough is enough and the traffic is simply not worth it.
Atlanta, Georgia, was named the worst place for bottlenecked trucks in the United States. There’s a specific junction called Spaghetti Junction that is known for slowing people down to 20 mph for hours on end. Yikes!
The Best of Washington: Biking
Hopping on a bicycle and putting foot to pedal is a favorite pastime for many. The number of cyclists in America is increasing every year, with many of these enthusiasts being based in Washington State.
We can’t really blame the locals for loving the sport. Not only is the state home to cities, such as Seattle, with effective bike-share programs, but there is also an increased number of traffic laws that protect cyclists. Not to mention the biking trails in the natural surroundings!
The Worst of Washington: Air Quality
Unfortunately for Washington, the state has suffered from the negative effects of neighboring state’s natural disasters. California’s wildfires didn’t only wreak havoc in the sunny, coastal state, but the smoke carried up the coast to Washington.
As a result, Washington is known to have some of the worst air quality. These fires are just one factor that contributes to the bad air quality in the Evergreen State. Best to keep your mask handy - and not just because of the pandemic!
The Best of Florida: Holiday Makers
Located at the bottom of the country and close to the equator, Florida has earned a reputation for being the Sunshine State. Imagine long stretches of beach, tropical warmth, and countless entertainment venues. It’s no wonder that Florida has been voted as America’s number one vacation destination.
It’s estimated that approximately 100 million people visit Florida every year. A lot of these trips are planned with Disneyworld and Universal Studios in mind, but there are plenty of other positive reasons to visit the state. However, if you’re planning a trip, we’d suggest booking out of tourist season!
The Worst of Florida: Treating HIV
The dark side of a bustling tourist destination is the risk of disease. Sadly, Florida is known to have the highest rates of HIV diagnoses, particularly in Miami. This saddening statistic can be attributed to several factors, but tourism is expected to be one of them.
The large influx of tourists regularly has led to a teeming party life - complete with the stereotype of drugs and one-night-stands. Sharing needles and beds is a major contributor to HIV.