Here’s a rundown of the 10 states with the lowest quality of life in the U.S., based on factors like crime, healthcare, air quality, and inclusiveness. The states were ranked from worst to best, with the lowest offering the least favorable conditions for living and working.
1. Arizona
Arizona struggles with air quality due to rising temperatures, which contribute to some of the worst ozone pollution in the U.S. Healthcare access is limited, with fewer than two staffed hospital beds per 1,000 people. While Gov. Katie Hobbs repealed a near-total abortion ban, restrictions remain, adding to challenges for reproductive rights in the state.
2. Kansas
Kansas faces significant childcare shortages, with just 825 licensed centers for a population of 2.9 million. Crime rates remain high, with over 11,000 violent crimes reported in 2022, although they have recently declined.
3. Louisiana
Louisiana holds the title of America’s least healthy state, with high rates of premature death and obesity. Violent crime is rampant, with over 300 murders in 2022. The state’s strength lies in its child care system, with over 1,800 licensed facilities.
4. Missouri
Missouri’s voting restrictions and high crime rates place it low on this list. The state is known for burdensome voting policies, being one of only 10 states requiring an excuse to vote by mail. Missouri also struggles with high violent crime rates.
5. Tennessee
Despite a decline in violent crime, Tennessee remains one of the most violent states in the U.S. Additionally, recent discriminatory legislation against LGBTQ+ individuals has worsened the state’s quality of life, especially for marginalized groups.
6. Arkansas
Arkansas is the second-most dangerous state in terms of violent crime, behind New Mexico. The state also suffers from weak anti-discrimination protections and voting rights. However, it stands out for having affordable child care options.
7. Oklahoma
Oklahoma has one of the most restrictive abortion bans in the U.S., along with low rates of physical activity and high obesity rates. Healthcare access remains a challenge, contributing to its ranking among the least healthy states.
8. Alabama
With no early voting and significant restrictions on absentee voting, Alabama ranks poorly for voting rights. The state also offers no public accommodation protections for non-disabled individuals and has one of the lowest minimum wages in the U.S.
9. Indiana
Indiana faces significant challenges in child care, with just 772 licensed centers for its nearly seven million residents. The state also passed several anti-LGBTQ+ laws, further diminishing its inclusiveness and overall quality of life.
10. Texas
Texas ranks the lowest, with severe issues in healthcare access, reproductive rights, and inclusiveness. The state has the highest percentage of uninsured residents and strict abortion bans. Despite high migration to the state, quality of life remains poor.
These rankings highlight the states where the quality of life is either thriving or in need of improvement, offering a snapshot of what life is like across the U.S. in 2024.
