Massachusetts has been named the best state to raise a family in 2025, according to a new study by WalletHub. The personal finance website analyzed all 50 states based on factors such as housing affordability, healthcare quality, education, and crime rates, using data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau.
Why Massachusetts Ranked No. 1
WalletHub’s study highlights Massachusetts’ strong economy as a key factor in securing the top spot. The state has the best job security in the country and ranks 10th in lowest poverty rates, increasing the likelihood that parents can provide for their 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,” WalletHub noted in its analysis.
Other contributing factors include:
- The best water quality in the country
- The highest rate of children with health insurance
- The lowest infant mortality rate
- A low property-crime rate
- Strong public school systems
- A high life expectancy
Top 10 States for Raising a Family in 2025
According to WalletHub, these are the best states to raise a family this year:
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- North Dakota
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- New York
- Illinois
- Wisconsin
- Maine
- Connecticut
How the Rankings Were Determined
WalletHub evaluated states using five major categories: family fun, health and safety, education and child care, affordability, and socioeconomics. Each category was broken down into further data points to calculate a weighted score out of 100. Massachusetts received a score of 68.88.
Resident Reactions to the Ranking
While the study highlights Massachusetts’ strengths, the ranking has sparked mixed reactions online. Under NBC10 Boston’s coverage of the study, some residents questioned the affordability of living in the state.
One commenter wrote, “Then why is it ranked #3 when it comes to people leaving?!” Another added, “It’s a great state if you make $200K and over.” Others expressed appreciation for Massachusetts, with one user saying, “Mass is awesome. Grateful to grow up there. Sad that so many young people are leaving to raise a family elsewhere because it’s so expensive.”
Despite differing opinions, Massachusetts’ top ranking in WalletHub’s study reflects its strong economic opportunities, job security, and overall quality of life.
