cloti
24th March 2013 |
Jersey always the best!!! |
Don M.
8th January 2013 |
Colorado should be a top 10 for sure. It has some incredible scenery and a mix of the best poulation diversity in America. |
a minnesota boy
11th December 2012 |
i have lived in minnesota my whole life. I think that it is a great place to live! I live for winter so i guess that is one reason why i love it here. I mean, who can't live without snowball fights, sledding, and snowmen? |
Nobody
11th December 2012 |
First and foremost look at jobs, taxation, crime, rent/housing market, yearly weather(gardening purposes), terrain, hurricanes, flooding, earthquakes, tornados. With the economy going down the drain and crime dramatically going up, it is best to live away from big cities, coastal regions, deserts. Use natural-obstacle locations to your advantage, such as states with mountainous barriers for miles. Utah and Tennessee are pretty much the best locations on either coast.
Florida is one of the worst places. Job market is horrible, too many swampy areas, and it's surrounded by water, for the most part. You can't judge best places to live just on year-round warm weather alone. |
John
1st December 2012 |
Connecticut is pretty nice, but if you ever go there... DONT AND I MEAN DONT GO TO BRIDGEPORT! |
From Minnesota
29th November 2012 |
I've looked at other stats and i think it's funny how high taxes correlates with best states to live in... Hmmm |
Eric
17th November 2012 |
MN born and raised and I could write a book about it. People are attractive (Descendants of Swedes, Norwegians, Germansan, etc.)and well-educated, but sloooow(when I say slow, it isn't intelligence but pace of living, talking, thinking) and very conventional. If you're at all different, you'll be crucified on a daily basis--I know what I speak of! The conventionality part is the hardest. Next is soul-crushing winters that feel like they'll never come to an end--months of dark grey skies(visualize what the Apocalypse might look like than you've got it). I love the lakes and lake activities, so to me they provide some of the most gorgeous scenery possible. The North Shore of Lake Superior and the Boundary Waters provide some very amazing scenery and fun things to do. Skiing and Golfing are fun things. The women are beautiful here but a little cold--like most northern states. Back to Cali' |
BT
9th November 2012 |
I can't believe that California is ranked so low! I have been born and raised here, and love it. Also, it's a very beautiful state and has a lot of tourist attractions. I can't believe that states like Wyoming are at the top! California is the best! There's 2 sections too, if you don't like city and you want pretty trees and mountains, there's also Northern California. I suggest this state, Go California! |
anthony
21st October 2012 |
Being a native New Yorker and having lived in FL for 14 years,I'm ready to leave.FL is too hot and humid,people are terrible and fake,relationships superficial.It's truly a boring state,people come here to retire and die.I want to check ount Knoxville,Tennessee,I like the mountains. |
mike
26th September 2012 |
i have lived on the west coast, east coast and the deep south. i have also visited most of the states. from what i have seen the south is the best, except for the music. |
BruinsGuy
11th September 2012 |
There is a reason states like New Hampshire, Minnesota, Vermont, Iowa and Massachusetts are ALWAYS ranked so high. First off, the populace is highly educated and literate. It's clean with relatively low crime. Cities such as Mpls/St. Paul have 20 Fortune 500 companies alone and have low unemployment. The number of museums, theatres and involvement in the arts is among the highest in the nation. If your only way of measuring how good a place is to live is the weather, then move to San Diego or someplace in the Mediterranean and call it a day. Sure it can get cold. But at least when it does snow we are not trapped for days on end because we don't have the means to deal with it. Yet in the Summer, it is usually in the 80's and 90's, and on occasion near 100. At least during the Summer we don't have to spend the whole day in air conditioning, only to come out at night. In the Fall, there simply is NO place better. Besides, I guess I'd rather have a white Christmas, than a dreary, bland, grey and brown one.
But, if the weather bothers you that much, then by all means stay away. |
deewor
30th August 2012 |
out of the 7 states that border kentucky what would be the best place to relocate, outside of ky? |
Boston Massachusetts
25th August 2012 |
Personally, I think Massachusetts is the best state to raise a family. We are ranked #1 in health and education and recently Massachusetts General Hospital was named #1 in the country. We have had many healthcare programs long before Obamacare. Our school districts are admired worldwide and perform highly on standardized tests. Massachusetts is also home to some of the best universities in the world such as Harvard, MIT,etc. I guess those are just the perks of living in a very Liberal state! |
DM
17th August 2012 |
If you want to rank states on things other than what's listed (like most wilderness, low crime rate, good education, rocky coast, great seasonal activities [skiing, boating, hiking, snowmobiling] and first to see the sunrise)... MAINE. |
DK
15th August 2012 |
Where you live is just a state of mind. As for MS's rating of 50, that's the lowest not the highest rating. Been there and I know why MN is #2. Minneapolis is the city of lakes, there's nothing like it in any other city. Warmth....there's fireplaces. As for snow......there's skis and snowshoes. Beauty......Stillwater, Duluth, Two Harbors, on and on.
Ron......I agree with you on OK.....land of 10,000 meth labs. |
ms cali
9th August 2012 |
I was botn in cali, ive live in mn and tx, i love mn, but tx has a good employment rank. Both tx and mn have low cost of living. texas is boring though, and the people too lol, but like i said it has jobs and good cost of living. Its hot as hell. I prefer the snow. |
Kelley
15th July 2012 |
Ive lived in ca ma ny fla ga& va. I have to say that ny is all around the best state , edu, crime , real estate, & things to do do are a plus, on the scale that they should be on for favorabity. Why waste time ? The white mountains are waiting! |
Zach
24th June 2012 |
You know people on this thread or whatever are always complaining about how their state should be higher...I think anywhere from 20-30 is perfect for Michigan it's not horrible too live here but not that great or at least economically speaking..but on the bright side we have all four seasons and it's absolutely GORGEOUS here especially the west,southern,northern parts of the state plus the UP the east is pretty nice as well, we have low crime rates(except for the east side of the state ie Detroit) and the bigger cities although GR isn't too bad for a city of 200k or so people we also have pretty good primary,secondary,and higher education systems..Michigan for the most part is small suburban towns which are usually good for families(although is you're looking for a nightlife this isn't the place for you...)pretty good overall state now if we could just fix that stubborn economy... |
Mark
14th June 2012 |
KY deserves to be among the lowest. Horrible Place to live |
LookinforHome
2nd June 2012 |
I have lived on Long Island for half my life, another big chunk in South and Central Florida, and now North-Western New York state.
Florida is nice but flat with very little scenery except the water-ways. There is man-made scenery (i.e., expensive over-the-top landscaping) however, that YOU pay for in what they call "common charges" if you are a home-owner. It is VERY hot and humid in the summer such that you can't even enjoy your patio without dripping with sweat. The winters are glorious though and make up for the very long, very hot, very humid summers which can sometimes start in April and end in November. Great for retirees though! By the way, the state does provide home-owner's insurance if the carriers refuse to cover you. Supposedly business friendly. Tons of sprawl and the traffic can be a nightmare unless you work off-hours.
New York is tax andd regulatory HELL. Where I live though people are friendly-more like the mid-west. The scenery is beautiful and quaint but the winters are very, very long (Mid-september to mid-May). They generally don't put in sidewalks, so if you enjoy walking for exercise as I do, you take your chances walking in the street. Good shopping, highly educated people, expensive schools/universities, somewhat transient, very poor inner city, lame government that gets virtually nothing done, antiquated public school organization, and not that much to do for families unless you like freezing your butt off for 6+ months. Definitely not the place to spend the rest of my life!
Long Island is the home of "dog-eat-dog" living and you better watch your back because everyone is competing with everyone else. You can't even pull up to a red light without someone else switching lanes at the last second to be in a better spot than you. It's sick! It's over-crowded, expensive beyond belief and people are generally snotty and arrogant. I was so glad the day I said good-bye. |
Darrell
29th May 2012 |
Quit picking on Mississippi. Mississippi is fantastic. I have traveled to Mississippi many, many time and have enjoyed myself tremendously. The people are hospitable and very welcoming of people in their homes. The food is the best! You have Mississippi misunderstood. |
chris
29th May 2012 |
every state is the same the north isnt any better than the south |
123
1st May 2012 |
I know it's a little late for this post but I'm still currious. No one had much to say about Arizona. I would have liked to read the opinion of others for my home state. |
Texas guy
22nd April 2012 |
To the dude who said the texas highway system is the best:
Are you delusional? There is only one season in Texas: Contstruction.
Also, have you ever driven anywhere close to Austin or DFW? Worst freeway systems ever created (specifically in Austin). I have lived in 4 different states, and while I enjoy Texas, it has its ups and downs.
I think Oregon, Washington and Colorado should all be at least 15 spots higher than they are. Also, I think vermont and Iowa are too high (there is nothing to do in vermont - not enough people for me, though this is my criteria).
But, at the end of the day, there are great places in every state. |
minnesota gal
21st April 2012 |
I cannot see why Minnesota ranked so high. I have lived here my entire life. Sure, it would be great to come visit or vacation between June and September, but winters are HELL. They are around 6 months of the year and temps get to -40 below. You cannot function during those months, and all of salt on the roads rust your vehicles out within a few years. Yes, the housing is cheaper but the cities are also filled with people on welfare. Us working taxpayers support most of the other residence here. Southern Minnesota is not as bad, but dont bother going north of the state capitol. |
adana
17th April 2012 |
like totally dude florida is the bomb |
Adana Sammy
17th April 2012 |
Wow i didn't know how many states in u.s. had earthqaukes thanks for this but next time it wouldn't kill you to put the year and date that was the highest atleast like one of my friends have a aunt in Missiourie and it said it was 26. something and that was probally from 2011 like u know wat i saying but no offense or anything but would it kill yahh? |
TF
12th April 2012 |
Lol, I moved from New Hampshire to TX for college. |
Bill
7th April 2012 |
Born and raised in California. First 30 years of live in SoCal. Moved to San Fran for 3 yrs then moved to Boston area in MA. Stayed there for a few years then moved to NH Seacoast. Love it! I have traveled for work to over 30 states and have seen much of the United States. New Hampshire is trully special. |
Ray
4th April 2012 |
Why you hating on the southern state??!! I mean really I live in hattiesburg Mississippi and this city went from being a small town to a top 25 growing cities. We have the worse traffick in the state of Mississippi. Mississippi has no big cities and is a buetiful place to live. |
Lottie
1st April 2012 |
I have been all over this country and there are beautiful places in every state. There are great people too. It all depends what's important to the individual. If you cant find the place that has it all then you might consider another country. This old world has got something for almost everyone. For those that still cant find the right place there's always shock therapy. |
Kenzo
29th March 2012 |
It seems to me that every state I have been too has its beauty,but still
think New Hampshire deserves # 1 rating.while some of these states like
Florida are great for vacations,I could not stand it for a steady diet I
am from Massachusettes and love it..but cannot beat New Hampshire! |
Zach
27th March 2012 |
Well i think Michigan is a great place to live sure our economy isnt the greatest...but otherwise we have bueatiful Scenery the great lakes,the porcupine MTNS in the U.P, the 150 waterfalls and lighthouses plus were one of the only states that has Islands even most states on the ocean dont have islands ....and unlike those east and west coast beaches ours arent overcrowded...not to mention we have all four seasons here AND we have lots of history,culture,arts,entertainment,movies and great tourist attractions as well the only cons i see are our education system(although my school district individually is pretty good),the economy,and we actually dont have too many resteruant choices that you cant find anywhere else ecept for the U.P...... |
Alex
27th March 2012 |
Florida is a great place to live it may be a bit costly but I think it's bad reputation comes from
Being neighbors to states like Alabama and Mississippi. At least from the part I'm from it's a relaxed easy lifestyle with great beaches and never far from a good amusement park. |
pepa
25th March 2012 |
My husband live in corona California but i think it's expensive place living there cost so much
so what best state can we move and has chances in work and cheap
in same time safe for us and our kids
i wish u can help me guys |
Danielle
24th March 2012 |
I grew up in Florida, and have lived in Maryland, Ohio and North Dakota. Florida is a hell hole, socially, politically and economically. If you have money, you will be fine. Maryland is the polar opposite, and gives out TOO much welfare. Ohio is boring, but the food is good. North Dakota is a frozen tundra, but the people are nice, but its even more boring than ohio. I wish we could create a new state, right where North Carolina is. |
matt 889u
26th February 2012 |
PENNSYLVANIA should be at 50..so much CRIME and the weather sucks. You got the rude northeners who think they are better than everyone and me living by philadelphia it was a dump and ill never go back to that black hole .People probably think oh no wonder why there's so much crime he lived by philly...crime is everywhere there. Where I'm living now in the one and only best FLORIDA is the place ill stay the weather is great and I don't have to deal with hurricanes by orlando who people exaggerate about and I've lived here for 14 yrs and yet to experience one. The people are very polite and you got eveerything you need down here good places to eat a lot more things to do than pa and you got the wondeful beaches:) |
Robert
11th February 2012 |
I lived in New York My whole life. But everything is super expensive and there is no jobs here. Also the laws are very strict here and its out of control. the people who live here espacially long island are isane |
TRS
9th February 2012 |
i was born in Michigan and its a very beautiful state as long as you get up north out of the city's, i currently live in Utah....i hate this place its to dry there's no wildlife anywhere, and the high altitude makes it harder to breath |
Mandy
28th January 2012 |
I live in Mass. They call it Taxachusetts for a reason. I love Boston though. Everything is illegal in MA. I love VT and NH, the scenery is surreal. What are the 44 factors that this chart is based on? I can't seem to find them... I really thought MA would have been further down on the list. |
Paula
14th January 2012 |
@ Jim, You're kidding...right? South Jersey is cleaner, more beautiful and safer that North Jersey by far! ...and it smells better. While South Jersey maintains the image of "the Garden State, North Jersey is nothing but smelly industry and inner city smut and crime. You are dillusional.
|
NH Enthusiast
8th January 2012 |
I'm a born Washingtonian and raised Californian and to be honest I find faults in both states, especially the latter. California is beautiful but I feel there is too much wrong with it! I'm 16 and hoping to relocate to a state like New Hampshire in the east. Everything I've heard about it plus this lists validates my love for it. Vermont and Maine seem nice, too. |
EpicSmiley
2nd January 2012 |
My son says Idaho should rank lower because of racism. |
Me
2nd January 2012 |
My son says Idaho should rank lower due to racism. |
Melvin
31st December 2011 |
superguy1221 is very correct about New Jersey. The state is an absolute cesspool. |
Texas sucks
15th November 2011 |
Texas needs to control its drug and imigrant problems also it needs to improve its education system.
Virginia is the best |
ZachB
7th November 2011 |
I really like this chart from a guy who was born in the #50 state that's dead on. That state is terrible now. I also live in Florida working for the park service which is pretty nice but like Glen said good luck with trying to buy a house and when its hot good luck with the ticks and noseeums. I just would like to go there only for vacation now. I'm just tired of the south a little right now. I plan on moving up north soon and by the way this chart is, it is good enough for me. Minnesota sounds like a great place to live just got to do some research. |
Glen
30th October 2011 |
Well the list is interesting. I grew up in VA and I think honestly it should be lower on the list, definately not #5. For natural beauty, history and seasons, its great. But employment opportunities, rising crime rates and anyone that has lived there knows that state taxes you for everything. Cost of housing is usually way higher than potential income in most cities. I have lived in TX and currently been in FL for a few years. Texas has low cost of housing, but property taxes on homes is pretty high compared to alot of other states. Houston where I lived had lots of jobs, but had a lot of crime as well.
Florida is where it should be, honestly I would not be here if it was not for my child being here. Its a great state to visit, but living here the glamour fades quick. If you want to buy a home, good luck, many insurers have drop Florida for home owners insurance. No state income taxes is great, but considering the cost of things here it does not make a difference. The storms are another thing you worry about the closer you get to the oceanfront, then there are the tourist in central florida which can make your commute to work hell. And anyone living there knows jobs are hard to come by with decent wage because so many people want to live in Florida. Crime is a known problem across much of the state. |
CW
26th October 2011 |
seems like all the southern states are ranked very low on the list |
Kerry
25th October 2011 |
I have lived in Minnesota for my whole life, but I have visited a lot of other states. I can say Minnesota is an amazing place to live. Though sometimes we do get annoyed by the winters and are just ready for summer, we also get really hot weather as well. So those who complain about their summers being really hot come to Minnesota and you will see we have that along with really cold winters. So don't complain. I have cousins that live in California, that before they came to visit us one winter had never even seen snow. I mean how can you grow up without snowball fights, snowmen, and snow angels. And then there are the summers with so many lakes, we have fun all the time with jet skiing , swimming, fishing, ect. It is just full of beauty. I couldn't think of a better place to grow up in! MINNESOTA! |
josefine
15th October 2011 |
MInnesota deserves #1!!!! It really is the best state i grew up there but now i have to live in the terrible #36 state (az)
I love MN!!!!!
|
Scotty M
12th October 2011 |
I have lived in every part of the US and have to say the top 5 are pretty much dead on, well all except Wyoming where I also lived. If you can afford to live in Jackson Hole then maybe you would say it should stay but the rest of the State has no appeal. New Hampshire is a great #1, and number 5 Virginia should be #2. Now living in California I would choose any other of the 49 to live in. The Golden State should be dead last. |
mn123
29th September 2011 |
I have been in MN my whole life. Love and I mean love summer here. I also enjoy fall, but winter is terrible. I stay because my kids and the rest of my family are here.
I live in the town that was rated best city in the US to live 2 years in a row.
Our roads are getting worse and that includes bridges. Our taxes as far as I am concerned are out of control considering bridges don't get fixed, some roads get fixed, but not nearly as many as need it. I don't see any place that they actually spend the amount of taxes we pay... and no it is not on Welfare because we are no longer a "welfare" state, you have to have a job and make a certain amount of money to get it, which I can understand but now we have more and more people standing on the corner that look just like you and I, not on drugs and not drunk, the signs say "will work for food". All of the homes here that have been repossessed have been picked up by real estate agencies or banks have been talked into listing with them and are so overpriced most of them are higher than the home payment people had when they lost their home. Takes brains to list at those prices and just risk evicting... This in turn has rose the prices on "any" rental unit. In the not so nice areas you can rent a house for 1100- 1500 and the nice areas are 1400 and up per month. The apartment homes are not much less. If you "need" an average 3 bedroom you can expect to pay 1300 or 1400 in a what you may call decent area a month now. You may find a 2 bedroom in those areas around 1100 now and in other areas maybe and that is maybe 800 to 1100 also and don't forget that is an apartment and probably not so many 800's. You see more and more families starting to live together in small places. Okay, so we make sacrifices, but it is sad to see when someone has worked their entire life and cannot afford to live on their own.
Now lets talk more about taxes. Our cigarette, alcohol and gas taxes are above average here. While everyone else was paying 3.50 give or take a gallon ours was still 3.79 until a week ago. I get that CA and NY are much higher, but we are by far not on the "affordable" living list.
If I Googled I could give you real numbers but you can look it up if you are interested.
It's not as affordable in MN as it once was and again, if my children and my family were not here I would gladly go somewhere that winter's weren't quite as harsh but still grew grass and didn't just have dirt for a front lawn. |
Felicity
25th September 2011 |
I'm really surprised by the 'Top 5' (Top 10, even); all i know is that North Carolina definately got the boot; we deserve a spot in the 'Top 5'... |
BruinsGuy
24th September 2011 |
Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana are awful..plain and simple. There is a reason they filmed "Deliverance" in the deep South. New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Vermont, Iowa, Montana, Virginia, Colorado, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Connecticut are all fantastic places to reside. For those who think it's always cold, that's fine. It keeps the riff-raff out. So please, stay far, far away.
It's actually nice to have a white Christmas, a summer that isn't always 105 degrees with 98% humidity, and a fall that is unmatched..ANYWHERE!!! |
Jen
24th September 2011 |
I live in New Hampshire. I gotta say, I love it here. Nice weather, no tornadoes, hurricanes (we did get hit by Irene, but it just rained that day where I lived, not even lightning), the unemployment rate is half of what the other states are, one out of the few states that doesn't have sales tax, fireworks are legal and are a lot of fun, beautiful mountains, you can experience the cold and snow of winter and still feel the heat of summer, and we mean 'Live free or die'. I think it rightfully deserves the number one one this list. |
Bobby
19th September 2011 |
This information is 5 years old.Time they updated it!!!!! |
Garrett
18th September 2011 |
I'm glad Wyoming is near the top. That is totally right. We have gorgeous mountains and not a whole lot of people. Our state has a lot of money too. Most states don't have anything as pretty as the explosive geysers in Yellowstone or the extremely tall Teton Mountains. It doesn't cost a whole lot to live here either. Wyoming is packed full of history! |
Patricia
18th September 2011 |
I am from Chicago. Lived in Indiana for 10yrs, now. I AM IN MINNESOTA hopefully. Every. Things goes. Well.
I
|
moses
12th September 2011 |
utah is a nice state to live |
twila richards
8th September 2011 |
everyone tells me im crazy for wanting to move up north because of the cold, who stays outside all winter anywhere, i could go snow mobiling,ice fishing don't work outside ,and i found the people in Algoma Wisconson as nice as anyone i have met in Texas in 49 years,maybe different people just fit into different places. austin is different and it would be a great place to live but way to many people, im not a city girl, i like watergreen grass and trees and 4 seasons and im not afraid to take a chance and do something different the way I see it you can always come home and sometimes you have to leave a place to apprieciate it! I might have to take a look at MN also, but as of now Wisconsin is calling my name. |
May
3rd September 2011 |
Well i am from indiana and just moved to arizona...indiana sucks and im not liking arizona so well either....im thinking about moving to washington state or wyoming. some were were it gets cold and i dont have to deal with humidity in the summer...cuz arizona still has it...no matter what people say...grrr. |
Jo
29th August 2011 |
I think all you have to do is see the migration trends to places like Texas and Arizona. Seems to me that people are voting with there feet. |
Mark
27th August 2011 |
I live in Montana, but lived most of my 50 years in Minnesota. They are both beautiful states. Minnesota does have humidity and bugs but is loaded with lakes and so fishing and water sports are huge. Obviously the other guy has a serious chip on his shoulder. Minnesota is consistantly ranked high for a reason. It is a wonderful place to live and I plan to return. |
Rachel
18th August 2011 |
"Resturants" is spelled wrong. It's "Restaurants." |
Tracy
18th August 2011 |
I believe Wyoming is ranked so because of the jobs and the beauty. Let those that think negative about it stay in their own states. Please, we like the low count of residents and would like to keep it that way. |
bill
15th August 2011 |
How Minnesota made number 2 I will never know? That place sucks! I'm from there and it is full of Liberal elites. The summers are hot and muggy. Every flying biting insect in the world lives there. The schools are full of high minded Liberals, and the work force has to many worthless unions. Total JOKE! |
Katherina
8th August 2011 |
I want to know if Massachsets is a great place to live? I found a great college in Massachusets, but my dad won't let me go unless he thinks it's safe. Please let me know if Massachusets is a great place to live for a while!
Thanks! I appreciate it. :D |
David
6th August 2011 |
I have been all over the U.S. There are many beautiful and interesting places. Some are more seasonal than others. I like it warm and sunny as often as possible because I like to do a lot of outdoor activities. I like what GOD made here in SE Florida but the economy is bad. Also too many of the people are selfish, nasty, limited, materialistic, ignorant, idiots. Maybe that's a lot of places but it seems worse here?
I hope people wake up. Our Country is in serious trouble... Too many of the politicians are sold out, traitors, puppets, working for the NWO / new world order. They are trying to destroy the US by destroying it's economy and us, we the people. Check out some of JBS.org and Alex Jones material, like the FEMA camps on you tube. It's more than interesting... |
SelenaGomezLover623
5th August 2011 |
I think that Ohio is the best state to live in. North Ridgeville is so beautiful. I might be moving to Minnesota. Does anyone no if Minnesota is a beautiful or ugly state? Tell me please! |
MassGirl
26th July 2011 |
Massachusetts is the best state in New England...I love it...the best place to live in end of the story |
Tazz
25th July 2011 |
Illinois SUCKS!!!! let me out!!!Wish I had the money to leave this thieving state. |
Data fail.
25th July 2011 |
Minnesota lanked #2 as the best state to live in the US?
I think MN is the worst states in the US why? Live the state at least 10 month and then you will see and feel why I think like that.
MN's winter is suerly not for suitable for human. Tooooo COLD. Summer, I remember only 1 month and half sunshine and most of Summer season has a lot of Thunder and rain and humid. No mountin=No place to hike. Too much lakes. 100 beautiful lakes are enough. Too bad road condition due to excessive cold weather. Aggressive people & unpolite. Etc etc.
I think WA, CA, TX, and FL are the best state to live. Especially, states in North West such as Washington was very impressive. Many beautiful mountins out there, many beautiful lakes and sea, no snow, no humid, Nice Summer for about 4 month. very nice road condition. Very polite people. A lot of coffee restaurantes. Only one bad thinkg is about 2 month rainy season in Winter but not bad at all. Because rain is falling very softly so that Washington people do not take umbrella at all. I rememebr one week rain and 4-5days no rain but cloudy and then 5 days soft rain and then 5 days cloudy in cycle.
I still miss Bellvue, Kirkland, Seattle. Very very impressive big three cities in WA. |
Jim
21st July 2011 |
Just to let you guys all know North newj ersey is amazing much better then south jersey you get senic views in north jersey NORTH JERSEY IS GREAT |
Irene
18th July 2011 |
Alabama #39?? BAHAHA i live in Alabama and I want to get the hell out of here. I think its should of been #45-50. There's a bunch of rednecks and racists down here... |
hunter+strickland
16th July 2011 |
NORTH CAROLINA SHOULD AT LEAST BE IN THE TOP 5.WE HAVE MOUNTAINS,BEACHES,REDNECKS,ONE OF THE BEST ECONOMIES OF THE SOUTH,FARMLAND, AMAZING NATURAL BEAUTY,AND WASHINGTON,NORTH CAROLINA IS THE HOME OF THE BLACKBEARD THE PIRATE! |
hunter+strickland
16th July 2011 |
north carolina should be in the top 5. we have mountains, coasts, farmland, rednecks, and the home of blackbeard the pirate n it has one of the best economies of the south. |
Michelle W
9th July 2011 |
I lived all my life in Pennsylvania. It's absolutely georgeous here when it comes to natural beauty and you get the best of both worlds. We have big cities for those who want to live the "night life", and you can also head to some parts of the state where it's all spread out for those who want to explore the beautiful and natural countryside. I'm getting married next year and moving to Alabama for jobs and to escape our sometimes harsh winters, but Pennsylvania also has a lot to offer. Plus we have the Liberty Bell here in Philadelphia! |
Jake
8th July 2011 |
I was born in maryland then when i was 8 i moved to virginia, virginia is a great state with very nice people but they have the worst school systems in the south part most of the school funds go to northern virginia schools and just for that virginia should come down a little, i love maryland that is my favorite state ever!!! you have the chesapeake bay and Ocean City is the best vacation spot there, it is warm in the summer, and for people who like snow that is the place to be!!, baltimore is not a very safe place to be though so if you ever go there make sure you dont go to far into baltimore!! and maryland has the best school systems and by expeirence people from maryland are way smarter then people from virginia, in maryland you can start taking foriegn languages in 7th grade, in virginia you have to wait untill high school |
ron
7th July 2011 |
new york is interesting, but not a perfect place to live, you best live in staten island or go to long island, i think floria is the best place to leave |
DJ
29th June 2011 |
I am surprised Maine is ranked 15th. It is a pretty state,with low crime, and 4 seasons. However the winters are very long, and good jobs are far and few between. The transplants from the masshole state are making things worse by pushing thier whacko ways on us, the same type of bull that ruined thier state. |
Megan Audrina
23rd June 2011 |
Let's go Illinois!!! Illinois will always be my favorite!!! It will always be the best because of its most beautiful city, countryside, and suburbs. It has stunning views and amazing food! So listen up people, Illinois is the best state and will be forever! |
trucker87
22nd June 2011 |
I have driven across this fine land for 30 years and my choice would be Louisiana because of the nice people and great food! I currently live in WA State and we have issues here but we have some nice areas to visit and see whales! |
Kadie
15th June 2011 |
massachusetts should not be in the top 10!!
the winter weather lasts so long, november-march,
summer is mid june-august.
this week in south east mass it has been in the 50s.
& its completely boring here |
Jake
6th June 2011 |
Hawaii baby!!!!!!! |
L. Banks III
6th June 2011 |
I don't agreed with Minnesota being number two on this list. The weather is too cold, Minnesota only have two maybe three months of nice weather and the cost of livig is high. The high cost of livng and the cold weather was bearable when there were lots of great jobs but now the work is slow because too many people have moved here now the weather and cost of living is to much to bear without having the great jobs to balance things out. I'm leaving Minnesota in the next three months!!!! |
natasha
4th June 2011 |
I am 37 yo and was born and raised in Rhode Island. It's not a bad state to live, but there isn't much here to do. We have our 4 seasons which I like. The state is called the ocean state which to me is inaccurate. The only area with beaches are in the southern part of the state and a little beach up north. The peoplee here are friendly and laid back. I have been down south on many occasions and have met alot of grumps. Maybe if they moved up north they wouldn't be so grumpy. I am ready to move to a different state, but am unsure to which one. I know I will stay on the east coast because we don't have the crazy weather (tornadoes, etc). I have been rating the potential states by crime, schooling and outdoorsy things. If the state list was based on things to do I would think that Iowa, Kansas, Indiana, and Nebraska would all be at the bottom of the list. Everyone open up the map books and see what I mean. Do these states even have trees? |
Chris
31st May 2011 |
I'm from New Hampshire, visit there twice a year. I live in Texas. NH clearly beats TX. The people down here are not as "smart" and the crime rate is ridiculous! Plus it will rain one day and flood but still be considered in a drought. The only people I've met who rave about TX have never been outside of TX. |
Jacolbe
30th May 2011 |
Tennessee is low because of the obesity and the poverty increase. The high crime is also a factor thanks to cities like Memphis, Nashville, Chattanooga. Other than that, Tennessee is the most beautiful state in the south. The flat plains of the west, the rolling hills of the middle, and the famous smoky mountains of the east.
PS. To the comments criticizing the south on correct grammar and spelling: we are raised southernly. That's what makes us unique. Doesn't make us any dumber than you are. |
Bway07
23rd May 2011 |
Florida is not at all what it's cracked up to be. The lifestyle is slow-paced, like SOME of it's people, the weather is hot and HUMID year-round, with the exception of a couple months during the "winter," and public transportation is limited. There aren't many plays to watch, Parks to enjoy, and I personally am not much of a beach kind of guy. I'm looking for some place up north with culture, music, museums, a little bit of fashion, and some natural beauty as far as scenery goes! Any suggestions...? |
Jerry Kashmerick
14th May 2011 |
Wisconsin is rapidly going downhill. It is becoming WIssissippi. |
DeAnnaV
11th May 2011 |
I'm glad to see Louisiana at the bottom of the list. I grew up in Baton Rouge and it is awful! The crime rate is horrible and most of the people in this city are living off of food stamps and welfare. The schools are really bad also. This is NOT a place to raise a family. I'm very happy to be getting away from this trashy state. |
northern native #5
6th May 2011 |
Superguy1221 new jersey isn't quite that bad it's pretty well the worst spot where people aren't friendly is mississippi they haven't got hospitality as they say they do I have been around the world and I think new jersey is pretty cool the beaches weren't as bad as oregon's beaches XD |
stacie
5th May 2011 |
florida it cost to much money to live here.rent and and there no jobs here and when you drive you alway see a house for sell.rich people do good here.i am a floridan i hate it here. |
z
1st May 2011 |
Interesting...I'm from Arizona...and if you can deal with weather that has reached 122 and snakes and scorpians and spiders and bumper to bumper traffic and one of the highest crime rates in the country and work furloughs...then you might notice some of the great schools and job opportunities...that's if you can find somebody nice to talk to...of course if you're retired and don't need an income or just want to go to school...northern Arizona is beautiful...z |
KGW
28th April 2011 |
In reading all the comments talking about how this state or that state should be ranked higher or lower, and many of us wondering why our home state was ranked where it was... I can't help but think that even the worst of our states (no matter whose ranking system you use) is most definitely better than at least 70% of the rest of the world...
And to you Ron - who says that living in the Bible Belt is like living with the Taliban - your skills of hyperbole are impressive. Perhaps you'd like to try living under Sharia Law - specifically in a community practicing Wahhabism... I'm sure it'd be a picnic compared to living in Oklahoma... Ha. |
Jim Bob Laughlin
26th April 2011 |
I live in New Hampshire, and quite honestly, I would never live anywhere else except maybe Maine, Vermont, or upstate New York. It is great here. You get a little bit of everything. We have mountains, beaches, rivers, forests, nice people, a relatively good economy, good weather... the list goes on and on. We don't get many tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, or any other severe weather. We've had some recent flooding, but that happens anywhere. We get all 4 seasons with breathtaking foliage, great winter skiing, nice summers, and beautiful springs. And on top of it all, we have some of the lowest crime rates in the country and the lowest murder rate in the country! I love NH! |
Andy
19th April 2011 |
New Hampshire really is the best state. It has all the good qualities of all 6 New England states all rolled into one. The only downfall about living here is the cold winters, but it is gorgeous here- especially up in the White Mountains- there isn't anything else like it. |
Jeff
14th April 2011 |
Wyoming deserves to be in the top five, beautiful country, energy rich and ZERO state income tax.
Idaho, especially Boise has a lot to offer as well. I live in Kalifornia and trust me...this is not the golden state anymore. It has gone to the dogs Florida sucks, everybody is dripping sweat all over. |
Mags86
14th April 2011 |
California should be lower on those ranks. I have been born and raised in California. It's beautiful, fun, every type of life is here, but the cost of living here with the wages that are given is depressing. The only way to keep a roof over our heads in this economy is for my husband, myself, and our 4month old to stay cramped in a tiny room in my husband's step-father's house in a crummy neighborhood. We both have jobs too. Time to relocate. |
fs
13th April 2011 |
I dont know how Texas is 45 we have great weather, a great economy, probably the best economy out of all the states. And we have anything from Mountains to beaches to praires to cities. We also have many good universities. Anything you want Texas has got it. |
Jamie
12th April 2011 |
I will try to give a balanced view on Tennessee. I have lived here for the majority of my life. Honestly, I do hate it for the most part (i.e., people, crazy drivers, etc.) There is also limited shopping in many rural parts of TN. The lack of cultural diversity leaves something to be desired.
On the other hand, it has alot of scenic views in East TN and many nice, clean lakes to swim/fish in. Parts of TN are also ranked to be lower in natural disasters than when compared to other states. Low crime rates in most areas.
But, overall...the minute that I get a chance to get out of here, I will. It may be a safe place to raise a family...but my son is almost grown. And, when he is...it is bye-bye big orange. lol |
keepingitreal777
10th April 2011 |
Top to bottom the worst state in the union to live an I'd say to even visit......washington state. ok here it is the "Weather" is thee worst and it is not cause of "rain" it rains more in many states it is dark dark dark did I say dark? grey tomb that is damp as Hell for most of the year and people lock themselves in there condos for THREE NONEXISTANT SEASONS aka the darktime and then in the summer the sun comes out an everyone goes crazy and everywhere you can possibly go to try and be outdoors and seek peace is entireley overcrowded and ruined. Blink the blue skys are gone and its back to to a nasty gray tomb for three seasons of the year of nonstop wind and chinese water torcher just above freezing most but not all the time it snows as well but goes away cause snow is pretty i guess. I lived in northern climates around the world. People well are sour grapes is what I call washingtonians expierience them for yourself seattle is omaha nebraska putting on airs. Traffic sucks not just seattle but all of western washington entirely Immense over crowding EVERYWHERE and less to do than anywhere I have ever live I have lived in ma, pa, tn, oh, vt, ca, ms, il ,sc "welcome to the great northwest" |
Melissa
9th April 2011 |
I was born in Minnesota and moved at 7 years old in Oklahoma |
Maeve
7th April 2011 |
Depends on what you are looking for...
New England has the prettiest countryside. Boston is a fascinating city with incredible hospitals/clinics. Our schools are famous throughout the world. We have four distinct seasons.
Vermont and New Hampshire are gorgeous in September/October; people have always arrived from around the world during these months. We have big wide open country in northern Maine (big sky country in Aroostook), fabulous beaches on Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket, mountains in Vermont/New Hampshire/western Mass./Maine...
We are the home of the world's famous thinkers...Thoreau, Emerson, Alcott, Bronte, Hawthorne, Melville
And if you don't like the weather/climate...wait a few minutes...it will change..
Variety is the Spice of Life...Variety is New England |
GC
7th April 2011 |
I have been through most of the states, and I agree. There are prettier places and tranquil and also the night life. Its all in what you like. But I still have to vote for Louisiana. The food, fishing, hunting. Nothing matches the Boiled crawfish |
Brian
6th April 2011 |
Wisconsin should be higher. Grew up there and currently live in Minnesota. Truth be told Wisconsin has nicer people and all the beauty of the outdoors Minnesota has. I don't think you can honestly find a better overall place to live. This is not a knock on anywhere else as I know each state has its beautiful and special areas. |
John
5th April 2011 |
I have been to most of the states in our country and anywhere in the North or places like Kansas and Missouri have freezing and long winters. So if you want to go outside anytime during the winter and not shovel a foot of snow off your driveway I suggest that you move to the south. You also don't want to move to a place like Ohio or Kansas or what I call them "Fly Over States." If you also want to be in the most friendly places in the country you should move to the Southeast because in the Southeast people will talk to you whenever even if you don't know who they are. On the other hand the North, Northeast, and Midwest are the exact opposite. When I lived in Kansas I saw my neighbor and said hi to them everyday and they would go out of their way to ignore me. So if you want to live in a place where people are rude to you and go out of their way to ignore you move to the North, Northeast, or Midwest but I know I wouldn't want that. I think the best places to live are Florida, California, North Carolina, and South Carolina. I hope you find this useful if you are still wondering where you want to live. |
Michael
1st April 2011 |
While I am certain some would look at this as unbiased, I would beg to differ. It's painfully obvious that the further you go south the lower it generally appears on your list. |
Brit27
30th March 2011 |
PENNSYLVANIA is awesome. We are right in the middle of everything that matters - Philly, New York City, tons of beaches, mountains, Washington D.C etc. There is the whole western side of the state that we refer to as "Pennsyl-tucky" but I am talking the southeastern part of the state. PA Rocks |
jon
28th March 2011 |
That's interesting New Hampshire is voted best state to live. I live there and i have to say, it's not that great. Not that bad either. Being a kid was born in ohio, NH is allot different. I Live in a rural area, but not all areas here are. |
EtoileDuNord
26th March 2011 |
I grew up in Minnesota and absolutely love the state! Couldn't have asked to grow up in a better place. I kinda want to visit New Hampshire now, though, at least to see what it's like. |
Nambrik
16th March 2011 |
Wisconsin and Florida are good |
alp
10th March 2011 |
so I'm confused, I thought the higher the number the better??? most of the replies here make it seem otherwise. The way I read the description puts Mississippi at the top!
I currently live in Michigan and WANT OUT! Our state has been going down the tubes for a while, and our new Governor is definitely not helping the situation.
Looking for a good place to raise my daughter with low unemployment and friendly neighborhoods : ) I'm leaning towards Arizona, Colorado, Mississippi or Alabama. Any recommendations? |
Corey
8th March 2011 |
Being from California I can see why places like Minnesota and Iowa are ranked high. I currently live in eastern Iowa and other than the long winters life is great. People are friendly, economy is pretty strong and it is cheap to live here. I have been all over the country and to me the pacific northwest and the midwest state like Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin are the best places to live. |
Lucas
6th March 2011 |
wooww! I don't see why florida is so low ranked |
Former MN resident
3rd March 2011 |
MN Native, keep those negative comments coming! Don't forget to mention the mosquitos!!! For those of us who know how great MN is we LOVE to hear talk about the cold, high taxes, ect., that will keep everyone from moving there! Meanwhile those who are living there or want to move back will continue to tell everyone about all the negatives while we enjoy low unemployment, beautiful parks, theather, hunting, camping, schools and all the perks the high taxes pay for! |
Courtney
3rd March 2011 |
Ok first off,as a NH girl I feel the need to say...WHOOO GO NEW HAMPSHIRE!!! While we are not exactly a tropical paradise,or terribly friendly sometimes I believe that New Hampshire truly is one of the greatest places to live(but hey,everyone thinks that about their home town,its partly due to cognitive dissonance). I went away for University this year and when I came home for christmas I was in awe of just how beautiful my little town at the foot of a mountain was(Monadnock region!!!)Our seasons are great, even if the winter is a litle long, the amazing weather in the spring and the breathtaking beauty of our autumn always make up for it.Theres a reason people either stay here or end up coming back! |
Miri
2nd March 2011 |
I live in Alabama and I'm shocked that Mississippi is ranked so low. I want to move there after I graduate college from the University of Alabama. Let's see...Texas is #45 but has the highest number of best places to live according to CNN Money's annual list. New Jersey is up really high at #8 when they are in the top for highest crime risk in the country and worst financial situation amongst all the other states. Basically, this list is a sad joke. I do wish there was one created that more accurately described the best states to live in based of job opportunity, weather, cost of living, home prices, education...you know things that actually matter. |
Iowa lover
28th February 2011 |
IOWA SHOULD BE NUMBER 1 |
Little House on the Prairie Kato style
24th February 2011 |
Could not agree more with Mn native. I grew up in LR,Ark and will take the humidity and scenic beauty and hills over this frozen tundra any day. If you like bar food come here. No other restaurants seem to make it well. Oh and forget a decent buffet if that is your thing. OCB is about it besides the chinese ones that have food sitting out all day.
Great culture if you are white in all parts of the state except the Twin Cities. If you live there have a car and mace. |
Ann
23rd February 2011 |
I am considering moving to Minnesota. The Seattle area is gray all year long, wet throughout the year and cold three seasons. Most people are nice and the scenery is breath taking, but the weather is yucky and think that is the reason for all the coffee shops; people need a pick-me-up. In the summer there a giant mosquitoes on the trails by the river, making you avoid off trekking. I'm from California (Bay Area) and lived there for eight years before moving to WA. The weather in the Bay Area is wonderful and the people are diverse, but California is overcrowded and covered in dry brown hills. Like any school system, it is affected by demographics. You're lucky to find both a good school for your children and an affordable place to live for the family at the same time. All the good school districts are within the higher cost of living range. Public schools that are low in the national standards have a high percentage of non-English speaking students. If you have children always pick a good school district first, then narrow places down from there. I only read good things about Minnesota and the people. I would rather have the snow and seasons of Minnesota, than Seattle gray, wet, and cold weather all year long! The Seattle area is experiencing an odd amount of snow days this Winter and people here do not know how to drive in these conditions. Not to mention, the city and schools are ill prepared for snow days. The only silver lining is the people are generally nice. |
Mn native
21st February 2011 |
Minnesota should be 45th at best. Soon to be highest taxes in the country. Bridges fall into the water. Stadium collapses. Roads are terrible. And do I need to mention the worst weather outside of the artic circle? Two 17 inch snowfalls already and 6-8 coming this week and another 16+ next week. Oh yes when all this snow does melt in April we are looking at record flooding. Live anywhere but this god forsaken place . |
mike y
21st February 2011 |
California is arguably the most diverse and dynamic state in the country. There is a place for everyone in Cali. If you like the city life then San Fran is great. LA has tons of culture and a very fast paced way of living. Im from San Diego and i cant complain with the relaxed way of living. If hot weather is your thing there is a place for you in cali. If cold weather is your thing there is a place for you too. Southern California boasts some of the greatest climate in the world. Our winters, more like extended falls, are full of sunshine. Its not uncommon to see a 3 week period without a cloud in the sky, even in the winter. If your into cold weather then Northern California is great. We have some of the best skiing in the states, Mammoth mountain and lake Tahoe are constantly recognized as top 5 resorts in the country by reader polls. Far north offers a quaint style of living and a lot of beautiful scenery. If your an outdoorsy person i couldn't possibly tell you how great California is. I surf 4 days a week and ski every weekend, no joke. The state parks are the best. Yosemite, redwoods, death valley, sierra nevadas... amazing. Land of wonder and dreams, California :) |
619
20th February 2011 |
id been in 40 states and washington is the worst so far. it rains 24/7 a day and your in the jungle |
Kris
19th February 2011 |
I have resided in New Jersey my whole life (minus one year in Long Island NY. Superguy (#3) is probably a full time Jersey resident too. New York outside of the city is great, as is Vermont, NH, etc.
I am planning on moving South within the next few years, originally to New Orleans, LA or AL. Now I am settled on Georgia, Florida or Texas.
Have been to California and the midwest too, but never to the Pacific Northwest. Heard it is great out there but the weather is not to my liking.
Any southern city suggestions would be great. |
Chris
19th February 2011 |
Virginia is an awesome state. Everyone hear is nice, we have a beach, mountain range, and we have a large history. The best state is Virginia!!! :D |
Mark
16th February 2011 |
Ohio is a very bad place.how I know that ,OK I live there people there very rude and crumpy. |
southside
10th February 2011 |
if u arnt from the south tour oppinion dont matter |
superguy1221
6th February 2011 |
I think New Jersey should be ranked the worst state to live in. Many people aren't friendly, it can be expensive and the infastructure is pretty bad. Crime rate is high, the public trasnit is poorly organized and the beaches are bad 45 weeks out of the year. Plus there's no scenic beauty, just train tracks, potholes and power lines. |
Al
6th February 2011 |
Florida should be in the top 5! Everyone lives here, including all Celebrities! Its the place to be!
Best looking People & Best Weather! |
Paul Andrew Anderson
1st February 2011 |
This is a great resource for sociological and psychological research. Looking through the reply's you can see the human predilection to anthropomorphizing by connecting a name, label brand or title to the self, and then trying to defend it. State borders are, of course, imaginary lines that are recent events in the human condition; obviously, we are one race on one planet. Most humans live their lives on the continent they were born on, but its all just rock and dirt above ocean level. And yet, people still see the name of the State they live in, as somehow a part of their self-identity, and then seek to defend or justify themselves before others. It's as if identity is defined by personal choices, one of which being the choice of State residency. This is why random assessments such as this (and others like it) arouse emotional responses, even though they're clearly the product of subjectivity. Imagine living where you do only a mere 5 centuries sooner! Can life really change that much when you step over the State line from New Hampshire into New York? Of course not, it's a silly concept, really. |
Macljchugg
29th January 2011 |
NYS not NYC is the only place where there is no devistation or major up and downs with weather. Sure we have seasons, but no hurricanes, tornados, floods, or even huge snow storms. All around weather is very acceptable. Not all places in NY are expensive to live either. The state is actually a decent place to live. |
Michael
29th January 2011 |
I love Minnesota. I've lived there my hole life. I couldn't imagine living anywhere else! Theres always something to do there: Winter = Making snowmen, ice fishing, sledding, and oh yes..POND HOCKEY! And Summer = Swimming, fishing, going out on the boat, bonfires, barbeques..etc... The spring and fall are just fillers with great scenery haha. And the best thing I love about MN is the fact that everyone is friendly and polite. You can literally go and make conversations with complete strangers without having to worry about getting shot. |
Jason(vermont)
28th January 2011 |
I have no idea what is the best state to live in but I am pretty sure it is not Vermont! I have lived in all of the New England states my entire life and they are nice for about four months out of the year. The winters in New England are horrendous and drag on way too long! The people are very nice in general and the schools are great but the cost of living can be quite high and there just isn't enough decent weather per year to make it worth it. Once I find the right state I will be moving from Vermont and hope to never return unless its just a visit but then only in the summer! |
Kahopek
26th January 2011 |
Missouri's ranking in the middle is probably accurate. At least in Southern Missouri. Weather is not too cold not too hot, jobs/income, housing - all moderate. No extremes here. |
wade
25th January 2011 |
I haven't read to much of nothing on here about PA ,so here's my 2 cents, I have lived in PA all my life (43years) and i can say, it's beautiful here to look at all the mountains and scenery, but as for work there is NONE!..and the TAXES are outrageous!!...People are stuck up to high heaven!!...I am moving from this state this year!!...I have had enough of NO QUALITY OF LIFE , this state only makes there money from taxes, and DUI arrests!!....period!!....it's sad here, so much depression don't move to Pennsylvania!!!!! |
Jamie
24th January 2011 |
I currently live in Wellington,Florida. Our family moved here from Green Bay, WI in June. I usually do not post on these but it helped me make my final decision when my husband was offered a job here. First, Wisconsin is MUCH cheaper, schools are much better, people are friendlier, and less traffic and WAY LESS ROAD RAGE.
Florida does have nice weather. The schools are not the best and our children are in the Palm Beach school system which they say are the best here in Fl. Cost of living is extremely high, road rage, insurance is VERY high, food is high (chocolate milk $5.00 a gallon). |
Alyssa Adler
23rd January 2011 |
I currently live in Minnesota. It's a beautiful place. The summers are surprisingly long, and same with the winters. 1 year = December through March is winter. April through May is spring. June through August is summer, and than September through November is Fall. Not a lot of states have winters or falls, so Minnesota is good. From what I heard, florida is a jungle haha, they have alligators there! Well Minnesota has black bears but thats only Wayy up north there. Nobody really wants to buy houses in Minnesota because of the winters so Housing is VERY cheap, you can get a good house. I lived in Nevada for a year and a half, and everybody lived in trailer houses! It was rare to live in a house! everybody wanted to live in Nevada! Minnesota is good! (: |
Don
22nd January 2011 |
NEW HAMPSHIRE (ALABAMA NORTH) #1. HOW CAN A STATE WHERE ALL THE RIVERS FLOW SOUTH BE #1. DREADFUL SOIL, POOR QUALITY GRANITE. GIVE ME VERMONT, THE RIVERS FLOW IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION, NORTH. TOWARD THE PROMISED LAND, CANADA. AND GOD'S COUNTRY, QUEBEC. VERMONT, #1 USA (STILL) #6 IN CANADA (2013), AFTER THE MISSISSIPPI GOVERNOR IS ELECTED AND THE COUNTRY IMMEDIATELY IMPLODES. |
Andrew
21st January 2011 |
As someone who has lived in Minnesota his whole life, I've come to the conclusion that I wouldn't want to live anywhere else. People seem to have a love/hate relationship with the winters here (personally, I love the weather, winter activities like skiing or sledding are incredibly fun) and the cold isn't that bad if you own a good jacket; anyone can get used to it. Also, the summers here are amazing- Minneapolis is actually warmer than San Diego, CA in May, June, July, and August (in terms of monthly average high temperature) |
Andrew
21st January 2011 |
I don't see why people are citing weather as a reason why Minnesota (my home state) and other northern states should be lower. Dealing with the winters is more about mindset than anything else, if you decide you love the snow and also love going skiing, sledding, skating, making snowmen, etc. then Minnesota has some of the best weather in the world. Also the summers are nicer and last longer than we get credit for (in May, June, July, and August Minneapolis is warmer than San Diego, for example). |
nmp
19th January 2011 |
Louisiana should be number 1!! we have new orleans and we have class...and dont forget the south can have fun! the north is just a bunch of stuck up snobs who dont know how to live life right....we have the best music, history, and food. we have the friendliest and easy going people here! So come on down to the big easy and get ready to have a blast!!! |
Nicole
19th January 2011 |
Well, see y'all, I don't think report should have been called 'Best States to Live' because that's a bit subjective. I wouldn't mind living in Mississippi, but I wouldn't fancy moving to New Hampshire, because I wouldn't have any friends or family there, so I think the study should've been called 'States That Lack Walmarts But Have Ample Amounts of White Castle Restaurants'. I live in North Carolina and I'm a bit suprised that we aren't higher than 40, but than again I ain't ever seen a White Castle before, so that's probably why we're so low. :P |
hannah
17th January 2011 |
ok so me and my friend are talking about moving into a house together because we want to live in a house together cuz we each only have to pay half the bills
so what state should we live in?
somewhere thats friendly and have nice jobs and colleges? |
zed
16th January 2011 |
Really need advice from a decent person, im from london UK, and am looking to settle in america, i want a nice place to live with my girlfriend and my dog, somehwere safe and sunny; with great communities, im only 21, though have many ambitions, will be coming this year to try a place out, was thinking miami? after watching miami SWAT, I DONT THINK SO! lol. any help please ziyad254924@hotmail.co.uk |
Carlo
15th January 2011 |
Take these results to heart. Any organization can pay anyone else to direct an outcome they want. The manipulation means big money and isn't that why we are failing as a country?
Greed & corruption. |
NCgirl
10th January 2011 |
Okay,what?why are you saying "oh,florida is the best" and "no texas is" and blah blah blah! why arent you thinking of NORTH CAROLINA!They had the wright brothers,Biltmore house,Outer Banks,Chris Daughtry,Andy Griffith,James K. Polk,tobacco crops,Mountains,appalachin,Great weather,beaches! Florida!ugh!bugs!NC IS AWESOME!!!!!! |
Aussie
10th January 2011 |
hey the best place is NSW (New South Wales), yep down south way down south Australia.
I am only commenting because I belive we are your 51st or the 52nd state, according to the behaviour of our politicans.
And ofcourse the great HARPO, Oprah was visiting long not long ago.
don't come come visiting not good time now, I haven't finished building the Ark and God knows we need it with all the floods and Rain.
:-D
cheers,
to all of you |
Ruslan Vernon
9th January 2011 |
I live in New Jersey and I can't believe places like iowa are higher than us, we should be at least number 3. |
wolverine
7th January 2011 |
Michigan would be number one if the economy didn't suck. This place rules. When you only look at stats like crime rates, it will give you a bad impression, but it really is great here |
Kitty Lvr
7th January 2011 |
I think a lot of people that posted here need to read the "DEFINITION" again!!! For the people that can and cannnot read.... It says "The higher the number, the better the state"... And who says Florida is a great place to live... ugh. Wouldn't give you 2 cents to live there. With all the elderly people driving around that shouldn't even have a license anymore and the BUGS!!! Yuck!!! Think again people! If you LOVE to be around only older people go live there. |
gap2001
3rd January 2011 |
Honestly reading this, I have doubts about the data, I mean as one person said the # of Wal-Marts and White Castles, I mean come on. I live in KY and I am not surprised that we are pretty far down the chain. KY really needs to get it together. I have been to Southern coastal GA many many times and I love it down there. The people are wonderful compared to the people here in KY and the weather is awesome! The weather is great and just a relaxing atmosphere. I plan on relocating there as soon as I can. |
Trent Parker
1st January 2011 |
I live in Texas and although it is not perfect, it is as good as any of the other states I have visited (in the west, north, and northeast parts of the US) so I am quite offended by the #45 ranking.
It's not as conservative as some people who have not visited think. Especially in Austin :) |
Yay Texas!
1st January 2011 |
Definitely Texas!
Best economy: http://www.cnbc.com/id/37642856/CNBC_s_Top_States_For_Business_2010_And_The_Winner_Is_Texas
We also have not-so-cold winters and really fun summers, lots of jobs, so much stuff to do! Great weather and plains, mountains, rivers, and valleys. |
Tanya
29th December 2010 |
Trust me I have been to Mississippi a few times and granted some parts are pretty and the food is great-----BUUUUUTTTT----it is number 50 for a VERY GOOD REASON! |
The tums
27th December 2010 |
You can't really make a list like this unless it's based on hard statistics. Best money per job, Employment, homicide rate etc., "Best state to live in" is so utterly subjective
All the 44 factors are weighed the same, some states don't even have data for them to base a rating on. I guess that's better than if they created a bigger shift (Wrong or right, the graph would be much different) in the graph with weighed statistics
just because having so many different factors that people weigh differently.
If you're gay person, you probably wouldn't like to live in the rural south, not because of all the factors measured in the state statistics , but arbitrary things not mentioned, and knowing it
s probably impossible to live that lifestyle in the south, as beautiful as the nature is; as nice as the people are; as cheap as everything is. At the end of the day, it will be hard to find a good relationship there, and that outweighs anything.
OTOH, If you're a quiet, modest and conservative person you might find a piece of heaven in that same place: the calm, the security of a certain solitude; the reversal of complexity that accompanies city life. But you just can't support your family without moving to an urban area with better job prospects. Again this outweighs everything.
This at most, this might let the absolute medium of all the factors find a better place to live.
For the rest of, we have to find the find the best state, city, town, community, island through our on research on what matters to us.
I realize most of this is known for the readers, I just like typing sometimes. |
Vipul
24th December 2010 |
You guys have no clue how good Michigan is. I would put Michigan in the top 20. |
shynsly
21st December 2010 |
Really? Their basing this list of the "best" states to live in off of things like how many Walmarts or White Castle "restuarants" they have. Neat-o. |
funny
20th December 2010 |
Someone said anywhere upstate ny is a good place to live...I guess they haven't met the common clay that bangs their sisters around here. GO CLARKSON, impede the inbreeding! |
TSS
20th December 2010 |
Michigan ranks higher than you might expect in these rankings because of things like access to health care, quality of schools, government, access to culture (theater, arts), sports, excellent state parks, lakes, etc, etc.
If it were a ranking based on current job opportunities alone, yes it would be near the bottom currently.
My mom and my sister retired in northern lower Michigan, they love it. They do not have access to many city amenities like other areas of Michigan but it is beautiful up there. |
Bill
20th December 2010 |
The problem with Tennessee Josh, is that there are too many people like you that can't spell or use the right tense in a word or put a sentence together that doesn't read like you just skipped school. |
IA Bob
17th December 2010 |
Missippi has more churches than gas stations. I almost ran out of gas while driving through this state looking for gas station, but people are nice. |
josh
16th December 2010 |
Tennesse is the best state with less expenses regarding gas for cars house rent and most of the people has enough rooms in their houses beside through research tennessee is fifth less unemployment state in the united states |
Serpe
15th December 2010 |
New York should be in the top 10
The worst state should be Maryland. Horrible traffic, thugs left and right, erratic weather. I've lived here for 10 years and I'm sick of it. As soon as I get a job in another state I'm out. |
Oregonian
13th December 2010 |
Oregon should be a lot higher. |
hi5
12th December 2010 |
Citing Minnesota's extreme cold weather and erratic people, it should be below rank#30. The #2 is too exaggerated, remember they've only 1-2 month of warm weather, rest are like frozen tundra. Trust me, I was born there and spent my whole childhood. I still remember freezing temp and artic wind chill below 0 most of the year. |
Russell
9th December 2010 |
Southern Girl your english is pathetic it mirrors a two year old, The rank system has not failed by the sounds of it. |
Fr.V
8th December 2010 |
Glad to see Minnesota so high up in the ranking. My family and I are moving there next year. |
Southern Girl
8th December 2010 |
Mississippi is not the worst place to live and NYisn't50! we do have computers down here and we know how to use them and as a Mississippian I am offending by our ranking. Don't talk about stuff you obviously don't know anything about! I wouldn't say that Mississippi is the best place to live but it's definitely not the worst. Some reevaluating needs to be going on. Oh and just to clear something up we do wear shoes here too. Thanks |
Southerner
1st December 2010 |
Louisiana is a great place to live. That thing is wrong. |
Nikki+Peter
30th November 2010 |
Told ya! Oregon and Washington do rank higher than California!!!! :) |
Nikki Peter
30th November 2010 |
Told ya! Oregon and Washington rank higher than California!!!! :) |
Carolina
18th November 2010 |
Wow South Carolina always gets the short end of the stick, same with all of the south east. |
Kelly
14th November 2010 |
i say michigan is an amazing state even with the bad economy. its should be higher up on the list |
Ohiobaby
8th November 2010 |
OHIO should be #1 i mean its might be ghetto but its the best place to grow up in i mean look how i turnd out =] |
Mandy
5th November 2010 |
New Hampshire deserves to be number one! Its truly beautifal in every way. They have all four fantastic seasons, low crime, and much more! If you want to call the northeast the "tundra" think again... |
Hungry Jake
2nd November 2010 |
The "Best Places to Live" ranking cites a source, but gives no synopsis of what factors got most weight. Too many of the top places lack enough jobs to be liveable, period. If you can't find work that pays a "living wage," it hardly matters whether you are in N. Hampshire or Mississippi.
Wyoming is 80% uninhabited. Half the small towns are ghost towns or survive on Social Security pensioners. Wages in Laramie or Casper tend to max out at $9 / hour, save for a few boom-bust energy sector jobs. But if you work for the Postal Service, and don't fear layoffs, perhaps you can savor a fantastic Tetons view from your mountain home trailer. Much of N. Hampshire, northern Minnesota, western VA, and Iowa are the same story. |
Joseph
2nd November 2010 |
Minnesota is a place that I'd like to visit. |
Dale
28th October 2010 |
I can definitely see why Minnesota is #2. I visited there and was surprised at how nice and clean it was, how sophisticated the people were, and the beautiful environment there.
I wouldn't mind living there even though the winter is long. |
zack
26th October 2010 |
I would just like to say that having lived in both the north (midwest)and south i believe that northern lifestyle is much better. Mississipi is exactly where it belongs; alabama should be lower. The west is beautiful, but i would say places like oregon and washington should be high, not Wyoming. Not too sure about the east, haven't really been there much. |
jbork88
26th October 2010 |
flordia perfect weather all yeay round.......besides the hurricanes |
California
21st October 2010 |
RU kidding me? Everybody knows California is the best state in the world! It has the most beautuful geography and people. Just look at the television and find the most richest people in the world that can live any where they want and they all live in California....Oprah...Steven Speilbeig, Michael Jackson....Tom Cruise...they all live here because it is the most beautiful place in the world! and has the best weather!....PERIOD! |
J
18th October 2010 |
Woohoo! Go Minnesota! |
Donald
16th October 2010 |
Mississippi is the best place to live |
rawr.
10th October 2010 |
My wife and I are glad Washington got a [false] low ranking. Wouldn't want our Northwestern paradise to get overpopulated. |
Joseph
5th October 2010 |
I think the list is wrong. I love the South. Most of all, I love Mississippi!!! I think that Mississippi is the best state of all!!!!! |
Meremortal
3rd October 2010 |
Number 50 is great and it just gets better from there. We are talking about the USA here.! |
Big Al
3rd October 2010 |
Interesting. I never see news stories about rich people, the people who move for lifestyle, fleeing New York to live in ...Wisconsin, or Minnesota, or Iowa.
If you like that cold, and the blowing dirt, and the smell of cow crap drifting from the fields, and the floods and tornadoes, and the high taxes and crazy, marxist college students, you keep it. Stay there. |
BBF
12th September 2010 |
I moved from MD to MN...and I do feel a lot better about the low crime rate here. It was climbing up up up up and away in the MD counties that were closest to DC. Got to the point where you felt like you were stupidly taking your life in your hands if you went out after dark. MN and the county do seem to levy a tax everything...and the city adds taxes also. Well, I'll take the trade-off. It's better than having your house broken into and your spouse almost beaten to death...as happened in my old (very middle-class) Maryland neighborhood. |
Jessica
11th September 2010 |
I must say Iowa is pretty darn amazing(: As warm as florida and as cold as alaska. (: and I personally think that there is less problems with people not recycling... but I havent been to all the states yet... so idk it's my home!!! :D |
rich is dumb
9th September 2010 |
wyomings great... screw you |
fifi
9th September 2010 |
which state is better between these two?? I currently live in FLA but want to move to CO for many reasons, but I don't know much about CO. Does any one have suggestions??? |
Rich
8th September 2010 |
Any list that would rank Wyoming as the 4th best place to live loses all credibility. |
sno
6th September 2010 |
Minnesota ftw |
Ann
5th September 2010 |
I live in Texas, it's NOT the best state to live in. Yes its a great environment for businesses, but the schools suck, weather suck, highest teen pregnancy, high dropout rate, crime rate, illegal aliens, low wages. More than half of the jobs in Texas are minimum wage!! We have the most uninsured people in the country! This and many other reasons why people will vote Bill White in and Rick Perry out this November! |
Jennifer
4th September 2010 |
Whoever said Florida is crazy! I have lived here for 6 years and this place is a mess. Nice weather? It's too hot to even go outside 1/2 of the year. And crime and illegals are everywhere. Someone got shot a few streets over a few nights ago and I live in a good quiet neighborhood. I came from San Diego where I was born and raised and I would take San Diego anyday over Florida. Nothing great about bugs, humidity, and illegals taking over! |
Texas
1st September 2010 |
Texas is the best place to live. Most fortune 500 companies, low taxes, low cost of living. Texas has the best highway system in the country so you don't have to worry about traffic. Texas is the most air conditioned place in the world for the summer and it doesn't have to deal with freezing winters. Texas has the largest economy of any state in the us and low unemployment rates. |
Britneys
31st August 2010 |
Virginia being in the top 10 though. I live in Oklahoma and I can definitely see why ugg they're in the toilet along with rest of the bible belt, it's like living with the Taliban down here? really?? |
Neon Sly
29th August 2010 |
New Jersey???
|
NYisn't50!
15th August 2010 |
You know, if people in Mississippi had computers, or knew how to use technology, they'd probably be really offended at being ranked so low. |
Ann
15th August 2010 |
LOL, the south is all at the bottom. |
Sue25
11th August 2010 |
I don't agree with this data? "Michigan is ranked 25 on the list as best to live with the 4th highest unemployment, the 6th highest gun violent state, and the 10th highest taxed. Did I miss something?" Yea... what Mark said! |
cathy
11th August 2010 |
I don't believe it. |
cab
6th August 2010 |
Florida should be more down. the place gets wrecked by hurricanes, the weather is too hot, and most of it is a swampy mess. Up here we get bug infested, Florida gets alligator infested. |
Bostonian
1st August 2010 |
Massachusetts is AWESOME i simply love it! i've been to other states but MA wins |
The Georgian
1st August 2010 |
How could Georgia be number 38? The Atlanta Metro has an excellent quality of life, the best schools in the country, good weather, and is an all around great place to live. But then again, Georgia has a high poverty level, typical of the South.
Lastly, I was in Minnesota in June and can see why it's ranked #2. It's so cold, though! |
Kat82
27th July 2010 |
There are morons and crime in every state. It's personal preference. I enjoy living in the south. I have traveled a lot as a nurse, but coming back here to a close-knit community is what I enjoy. |
Abby Jones
26th July 2010 |
I think this is pretty much accurate indeed. The southern states, the Bible Belt of America ranked in the most apporiate place possible. Those state are crime ridden and drug infested with the law enforcement protecting those kind of people. Do NOT live in the South at all by no means! Other than that the ranking looks good. |
Alex
18th July 2010 |
This looks more like a chart for per capita cases of seasonal depression disorder, how is this determined? I live on South Beach; it is hard to weigh the crime against the standard of living in such a place. Most of your neighbors in south florida came here for three reasons: to die, to party, and political/economic asylum. In other words, the sources method lacks a number of variables. No oil or hurricanes by the way, come visit the beach! |
The Doctor
18th July 2010 |
How can Michigan be listed so high with a terrible economy & the highest unemployment rate in the country. Michigan should be ranked last or near the last. The thing is that the Automotive industry road this state rampant & as well as their local/federal government in the state with false promises of more jobs. Plus the weather in the winter is terrible there. |
mud
12th July 2010 |
Michigan...I can't believe it's even on the list. How old is this list and who was paid to write it? |
Mitch
6th July 2010 |
Anderson is a douche! Mississippi stinks like goat balls. |
andertuba
2nd July 2010 |
Florida's climate is awful. Who would want to spend everyday sweating like a pig? I think the the mountain west would be ideal. Dry air.....and few people. |
robin
30th June 2010 |
it all dependes on your goverment, they are the ones who make it hard on us,they keep taking and taxing everything, which makes it hard for people to live anywhere. im from upstate ny just inside the adirondack park, and we plan on selling our home here and moving out of ny. |
gsh
30th June 2010 |
The list is rediculous. I would think, Florida, Texas, Washington State, Colorado, New mexico. The frozen tundra of the northeast has to be the worst possible place in america. How could anyone place New Hampshire, New york over Hawaii. That is psychotic |
Nick
19th June 2010 |
See I would Rank New York a lot higher. With NY people focus too much on the city, but upstate is totally different, education value is a lot higher in mid state too. Plus as the only state left with the regents I'd say we take the cake :) |
Buster
19th June 2010 |
Florida is a crime ridden hell hole. Pretty much anywhere multiculturalism exists is a dung heap! |
Andrew
17th June 2010 |
Idaho needs to be ranked lower |
Ron
8th June 2010 |
This is pretty much how I would rate it also from other info I've seen on the net. I value and educated populace as #1 in importance. I do wonder at Wyoming and Virginia being in the top 10 though. I live in Oklahoma and I can definitely see why they're in the toilet along with rest of the bible belt, it's like living with the Taliban down here. When I'm able I will be moving to one of the top 3 which have been in my radar for years now. |
Aaron
6th June 2010 |
It's interesting how there are no southeastern states ranked higher than 37, Especially Florida. |
John yo
22nd May 2010 |
How can this info be correct and up to date, since the great disaster hit this country in 2009? It would be nice to see up to date information. Most of the ratings of states listed is not reality! |
Yolk fhf
17th May 2010 |
I would expect Florida to be up at the top!! |
Lola
10th May 2010 |
I would like to know exactly what areas this is based on. I think likely it is based on education attainment and income levels, etc. which I don't think are valued appropriately. What about a sense of community and abundance of close relationships bot with friends and family?! |
J 7 f
7th May 2010 |
I say Flordia is the best place to live in 'cause it has the perfect weather all year round! Plus, it has kind citicens and nice houses for sale! |
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