Embark on a journey across the United States and explore the fascinating tapestry of each state, delving into their defining qualitiesโboth remarkable and challenging.
From boasting the most dog-friendly cities to grappling with high obesity rates, every state has its own unique combination of strengths and weaknesses.
Letโs dive into a glimpse of what each state excels at and where they face their greatest struggles.
Colorado


Best: Fitness and wellness thrive in Colorado, as it consistently ranks as the most physically active state with low obesity rates and a population committed to an active lifestyle.
Worst: Sadly, Colorado faces the highest rate of drug overdose deaths in the country, particularly due to the misuse of painkillers like Percocet and Oxycontin. The state grapples with a concerning epidemic that demands immediate attention and solutions.
Alabama
Best: College football dominance โ In Alabama, the passion for college football runs deep, particularly when it comes to the University of Alabamaโs football team. With an impressive record of 11 national championships since 1936, the state takes immense pride in their football prowess, as echoed by the resounding cheers of โRoll Tide!โ across the region.
Worst: Disturbing infant mortality rate โ Despite its football success, Alabama faces a significant healthcare challenge in the form of high infant mortality rates. With 9.1 infant deaths per 1,000 live births, the state carries the unfortunate distinction of having the highest infant mortality rate.


Hawaii
Best: Idyllic beaches โ Hawaii boasts an array of stunning beaches, and among them, Mauiโs Kapalua Bay Beach stands out as the crowned jewel. Voted the best beach in America, its pristine beauty exemplifies the allure of Hawaiiโs 33 miles of swimming beaches. Hapuna Beach also secures a spot in the top ten, showcasing the stateโs unrivaled coastal treasures.
Worst: Sleep deprivation โ While Hawaiians enjoy the splendors of their beaches, a concerning sleep pattern emerges. A staggering 43.9 percent of Hawaiian adults average less than seven hours of sleep per night.


Iowa
Best: Affordable housing market โ Iowa emerges as a top choice for homebuyers seeking affordability, with the state boasting the most reasonably priced housing in the country. With a median home price of $181,900, Iowa presents an enticing opportunity for those looking to make a real estate investment or find a comfortable place to call home.
Worst: Bridge infrastructure concerns โ While Iowaโs housing market shines, the state faces a pressing issue in its bridge infrastructure. Alarmingly, Iowa has been ranked as the worst state for its bridges, with approximately 5,000 bridges labeled as โstructurally deficientโ by the American Road & Transportation Builders Association.


Kansas
Best: Smooth roads โ Kansas offers a haven for drivers, as it boasts the lowest percentage of poor roadways in the nation. According to USA TODAY, less than 1 percent of roads in the Sunflower State are considered unserviceable, making it an ideal destination for smooth and enjoyable drives.
Worst: Human trafficking crisis โ However, amidst Kansasโ well-maintained roads, the state faces a grave challenge in the form of human sex trafficking. In recent years, Kansas has witnessed a distressing surge in this illicit activity, reaching alarming levels.


Maryland
Best: High rate of millionaires โ If you dream of becoming a millionaire, Maryland may be the place for you. The state boasts the highest rate of seven-figure salaries, with an estimated 1 in 12 households having at least $1 million.
Worst: Bed bug infestations โ However, amidst the financial success, Maryland faces a persistent issue in the form of bed bug infestations. For the second consecutive year, Baltimore claims the unfortunate title of the city with the highest number of reported bed bug incidents.


Massachusetts
Best: Leading in health โ While Hawaiiโs reign as the healthiest state is momentarily interrupted, Massachusetts takes the crown as the countryโs healthiest state. Massachusetts boasts a low obesity rate and stands out with the highest number of mental health providers per capita, according to the United Health Foundationโs annual ranking. The stateโs commitment to healthcare and wellness contributes to its exceptional health outcomes.
Worst: Traffic congestion โ Amidst Massachusettsโ health achievements, the state battles a notorious challenge: traffic congestion. Boston, in particular, bears the burden of having the worst traffic in the United States. Drivers in the city spend a significant 14 percent of their drive time stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic.


Minnesota
Best: Stellar credit scores โ Minnesota stands out as the state with the highest overall credit scores, with St. Paul boasting an impressive average credit score of 709 out of 850. Minnesotans excel in managing their finances, reflecting their responsible financial habits and strong creditworthiness.
Worst: Harsh winters โ While their credit scores may be exceptional, Minnesotans endure the challenge of enduring harsh winters. The state has earned the reputation for having the most miserable winters in the country. With some areas receiving over 170 inches of snow annually and experiencing bone-chilling temperatures as low as -60 degrees Fahrenheit, itโs no wonder the winters in Minnesota can be considered daunting.


Mississippi
Best: Affordable cost of living โ Mississippi earns the distinction of being the cheapest state to live in, although it may stem from factors such as challenges in the education system and a struggling economy. Despite these drawbacks, residents of the Magnolia State retain 49 percent of their income after accounting for taxes and living expenses, providing a favorable affordability advantage.
Worst: Womenโs health disparities โ Unfortunately, the allocation of resources in Mississippi does not appear to prioritize womenโs healthcare. The state bears the highest rates of death from heart disease, breast cancer, and diabetes among women.


Nebraska
Best: High school graduation success โ Nebraska emerges as a leader in high school graduation rates, with an impressive 93.7 percent of students successfully completing their high school education. The stateโs commitment to education and supportive systems contribute to this remarkable achievement.
Worst: Road rage incidents โ However, despite their success in education, Nebraska faces a concerning issue when it comes to road rage. Based on data from social media, Nebraska ranks as the worst state for road rage incidents per capita.


Nevada
Best: Rock climbing paradise โ Nevadaโs abundant mountain ranges, totaling an impressive 300 named ranges, make it a haven for rock climbing enthusiasts. From the striking sandstone formations of Red Rock Canyon to the challenging summit of Boundary Peak, the state offers a premier destination for rock climbers seeking thrilling adventures and breathtaking vistas.
Worst: Struggling public school system โ While Nevadaโs natural landscape is awe-inspiring, the state faces significant challenges in its public school system. Regrettably, the school system in the Silver State has earned the dubious distinction of being the worst in the entire county. Factors such as inadequate funding, poor test scores, and a low graduation rate contribute to this ranking.


New Hampshire
Worst: Expensive college tuition โ New Hampshire is burdened with the highest average tuition costs in the nation, placing a significant financial strain on college students in the state. The soaring expenses associated with higher education contribute to the ongoing student debt struggle.
Best: Low unemployment rate โ On a positive note, New Hampshire boasts one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, standing at an impressive 2.7 percent. The stateโs robust job market offers ample employment opportunities for its residents, providing a favorable environment for individuals to secure employment and potentially alleviate the financial burdens associated with student loans.


North Carolina
Best: Ideal for millennials โ Durham, North Carolina, not only holds a legendary status for Duke basketball but has also emerged as the best city for millennials. The top ranking considers factors such as increased job opportunities and affordability, making it an attractive destination for young people seeking a vibrant and promising place to live.
Worst: Rising STD rates โ However, along with its appeal to millennials, North Carolina faces a concerning rise in sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The state now contends with some of the highest rates of diseases like syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.


North Dakota
Best: Culture of saving โ North Dakota takes pride in its culture of saving money, as evidenced by its distinction of having the highest number of adults with savings accounts. This financial responsibility is reflected in the stateโs focus on building and maintaining personal savings, highlighting the value placed on economic stability and preparedness for the future.
Worst: Binge drinking and alcohol-related deaths โ Despite its commendable savings habits, North Dakota faces a significant challenge when it comes to binge drinking. The state ranks as the highest in the nation for excessive alcohol consumption, with nearly 25 percent of adults engaging in regular excessive drinking. Additionally, North Dakota also has the highest number of alcohol-related driving deaths.


Oregon
Best: Brewing beer capital โ Raise a glass in Portland, which proudly holds the title of having the highest number of breweries in the world. Oregonians have a passion for beer, and their dedication to the craft is evident in their flourishing brewery scene. Furthermore, their strong support for craft beer is evident as they spend more money on it than any other state.
Worst: High rate of sex offenders โ Amidst the beer-centric culture, Oregon faces a significant challenge with regards to the rate of sex offenders. The state holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest number of sex offenders per 100,000 people, with a concerning figure of 676. Additionally, Oregon also reports a shockingly high incidence of 42 rapes per capita.


Rhode Island
Best: Donut haven โ Indulge your sweet tooth in the state that boasts the highest number of donut shops per capita. With an impressive 25 bakeries per 100,000 people, this state takes its love for donuts to new heights, offering a plethora of options to satisfy any donut craving.
Worst: High depression rates โ Unfortunately, alongside its donut delights, the state also faces a significant challenge in the form of high depression rates. It holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest rate of depression in the country.


South Carolina
Best: Southern sweet tea tradition โ South Carolina proudly claims the birthplace of the beloved Southern classic, iced sweet tea. This refreshing beverage holds deep cultural roots in the state, and South Carolinians take pride in their association with this sugary delight. Additionally, the state is home to the countryโs only commercial tea plantation, owned by Bigelow on Wadmalaw Island, adding to its tea-centric legacy.
Worst: Impaired driving fatalities โ Unfortunately, alongside their enjoyment of sweet tea, South Carolina faces a significant issue when it comes to impaired driving. The state records the highest total number of deaths resulting from drunk or impaired driving incidents.


South Dakota
Best: Retirement haven โ South Dakota shines as the best state for retirement, offering a combination of favorable factors that make the golden years truly golden. With low taxes and contented residents, South Dakota provides an ideal environment for retirees to enjoy their well-deserved retirement years, as recognized by Bankrate.
Worst: Child mortality rates โ Regrettably, South Dakota faces a distressing challenge when it comes to child mortality rates. The state leads the nation in child mortality, with 47 teen and child deaths per 100,000 people each year.


Tennessee
Best: Blazing fast Internet speed โ Tennessee takes the lead in providing lightning-fast Internet connections, with speeds that are 50 times quicker than the national average. This high-speed connectivity ensures that residents can enjoy seamless online experiences, including streaming their favorite shows and engaging in various digital activities with remarkable speed and efficiency.
Worst: High childhood obesity rates โ However, amidst the technological advancements, Tennessee grapples with a concerning issue of childhood obesity. The state holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest child obesity rates, with 38 percent of its children either overweight or obese.


Texas
Best: Entrepreneurial paradise โ Texas emerges as a thriving hub for entrepreneurs, offering a combination of factors that make it the best place to start and grow businesses. The state experiences explosive job growth, boasts ample venture capital investment, and fosters a business-friendly environment that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, providing an ideal landscape for ambitious individuals to pursue their dreams.
Worst: Dental health concerns โ However, despite its entrepreneurial success, Texas faces challenges in dental health. The state holds the highest percentage of adults whose poor oral hygiene negatively impacts their lives.


Vermont
Best: Happiness is key โ Vermont claims the title of the happiest state in the country, showcasing that the old adage โyou are what you eatโ doesnโt quite apply here. The residents of Vermont find their happiness not in consuming copious amounts of fast food but rather through various other factors that contribute to their overall well-being and contentment.
Worst: Scarcity of fast food restaurants โ Vermont sets itself apart from other states with its remarkably low number of fast food restaurants per capita. With only 1.9 drive-thrus per 10,000 people, the state offers limited access to fast food options. This scarcity potentially contributes to the overall healthiness of Vermontโs residents, who prioritize healthier lifestyles and make conscious choices regarding their dietary habits.


Virginia
Best: Unwavering patriotism โ Virginia, with its close proximity to the nationโs capital and the distinction of being the home state of eight out of Americaโs 45 presidents, stands out as a beacon of patriotism. The state has earned recognition as the most patriotic state, with residents proudly displaying their allegiance to the red, white, and blue.
Worst: Pricey speeding tickets โ While Virginians take immense pride in their patriotism, it is essential to exercise caution on the roadways. The state is notorious for having some of the countryโs most expensive speeding tickets, with fines that can reach a maximum of $2,500.


Washington
Best: Cycling paradise โ Washington state earns the prestigious title of being the most bike-friendly state in the nation, making it a haven for cyclists. With initiatives like Seattleโs bike-share program and the implementation of traffic laws that prioritize cyclist safety, Washington offers a supportive environment for biking enthusiasts to pedal their way through scenic landscapes and vibrant urban areas.
Worst: Air quality challenges โ However, amidst its cycling-friendly reputation, Washington also faces challenges in terms of air quality. Smoke from wildfires in California often drifts up the coast, causing the state to experience some of the worst air quality.


West Virginia
Best: Pizza paradise โ When it comes to satisfying your pizza cravings, look no further than West Virginia. The state boasts the highest number of pizza shops per capita, making it a true haven for pizza lovers. Whether you prefer classic New York-style or deep-dish Chicago-style, West Virginia has you covered with its abundant options for delicious and cheesy slices of pie.
Worst: High smoking rates โ Unfortunately, alongside its pizza prowess, West Virginia faces a significant challenge in terms of smoking rates. The state holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest percentage of smokers, with nearly 1 in 4 adults regularly lighting up a cigarette.


Wisconsin
Best: Family-friendly environment โ Wisconsin shines as an ideal state for raising a family, with an impressive 32 percent of the nationโs safest cities for children. Factors such as walkability and low rates of violent crime contribute to a safe and secure environment, emphasizing the stateโs commitment to prioritizing the well-being and safety of families.
Worst: Racial inequality โ Despite its family-friendly reputation, Wisconsin faces significant challenges in terms of racial equality. The state holds the unfortunate distinction of being the worst state for racial inequality. People of color in Wisconsin experience an unemployment rate nearly triple that of white individuals, and they are 11 times more likely to be incarcerated.


Wyoming
Best: Embracing solitude โ Wyoming offers a haven for those seeking to avoid crowds and embrace a more tranquil lifestyle. With its sparse population of just over 560,000 residents, it stands as the least populated state in the country. The vast expanses of Wyoming provide ample opportunities to find solitude and connect with nature, making it an ideal destination for those desiring peace and quiet.
Worst: Limited technology job sector โ However, alongside its allure of solitude, Wyoming faces challenges in terms of its technology job sector. The state has the lowest percentage of high-tech jobs, with the technology industry comprising a mere 2 percent of the entire workforce.


Alaska
Best: Natural wonderland โ Alaska stands as a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wealth of opportunities for activities like hiking, biking, and canoeing. With the stunning vistas of Denali National Park and the majestic glaciers of Glacier Bay, Alaska shares the highest percentage of land set aside as national parks, tying with Arizona. This vast expanse of preserved natural beauty provides a haven for adventure and exploration.
Worst: Alarming suicide rates โ Unfortunately, Alaska grapples with a deeply concerning issueโthe state has the highest rate of suicides. Despite the proven benefits of being immersed in nature, the suicide rate in Alaska continues to rise year after year.


Arizona
Best: Abundant sunshine โ While Florida may hold the title of the Sunshine State, Arizona shines as the sunniest state in the country. With Yuma claiming the sunniest place in the world, boasting a 90 percent chance of sun every day, Arizona offers a haven for sun lovers and those seeking warm, sunny weather year-round.
Worst: Challenging conditions for teachers โ Unfortunately, the education landscape in Arizona presents significant challenges. The state has often been identified as the worst state for teachers due to high turnover rates and unfavorable teacher-to-student ratios.


Arkansas
Best: Duck hunting paradise โ Arkansas emerges as a haven for duck hunting enthusiasts, attracting hunters from across the country. The state holds the distinction of being the real-life Duck Dynasty, with the highest number of ducks harvested each season and hosting the prestigious World Championship Duck Calling Contest in Stuttgart. Arkansas offers a rich hunting tradition and remarkable opportunities for duck hunters to indulge in their passion.
Worst: High divorce rates โ While Arkansas excels in the realm of duck hunting, the state faces challenges when it comes to divorce rates. It holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest divorce rate in the United States, with 23.4 divorces per 1,000 people.


California
Best: Rich diversity โ California proudly claims the distinction of being the most diverse state in the United States. As a โminority majorityโ state, it boasts a population where no single ethnic group or race constitutes the majority. This vibrant diversity contributes to a rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and experiences, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment.
Worst: Quality of life challenges โ Despite its diversity, California faces challenges in terms of quality of life. It has been accused of having the worst quality of life based on various social and environmental factors, including a diminished sense of community and high levels of air pollution. These challenges may have contributed to recent trends of more people leaving California than moving there.


Connecticut
Best: Impressive average income โ Connecticut earns accolades for its economic prosperity, boasting the highest per-person average income of $50,392. The stateโs residents enjoy a higher income level, reflecting their achievements in various industries and sectors, contributing to Connecticutโs reputation as a place with lucrative financial opportunities.
Worst: Road infrastructure challenges โ However, despite its economic success, Connecticut grapples with significant challenges in its road infrastructure. Over half of the stateโs 21,512 miles of public roads are in poor condition.


Delaware
Worst: Nightlife scene โ Delaware, also known as the First State, unfortunately falls to the bottom of the ranking when it comes to its nightlife. With a lack of bustling bars and vibrant entertainment options, the state faces challenges in providing a lively and thriving nightlife scene for its residents and visitors.
Best: Close-knit small-town ambiance โ Despite its nightlife shortcomings, Delaware compensates with a unique small-town atmosphere that fosters a strong sense of community. With only three counties and no cities with a population exceeding 100,000, the state offers a close-knit environment where โeverybody knows everybody.โ


Florida
Best: Ultimate vacation destination โ Florida, known as the Sunshine State, rightfully earns its reputation as the top vacation destination in the country. With world-renowned attractions like Disney World, stunning beaches, the mesmerizing Everglades, and numerous other captivating destinations, Florida offers a diverse range of experiences and attractions that cater to the interests of all types of travelers.
Worst: HIV/AIDS rates โ Unfortunately, amidst the vibrant tourist scene, Florida, particularly Miami, faces a significant challenge when it comes to HIV/AIDS. The state grapples with the highest rates of HIV diagnoses, partly attributed to drug use and the sharing of infected needles.


Georgia
Best: Sweet onion production โ Georgia, known as the Peach State, holds a remarkable distinction in the culinary world for its Vidalia onions. These onions are renowned for their exceptional sweetness and unique flavor. Grown exclusively in 20 counties within the state, Georgia takes pride in its ability to produce some of the worldโs finest and sweetest onions, delighting taste buds with their distinct character.
Worst: Severe influenza levels โ While Georgiaโs culinary reputation shines, the state has faced significant challenges in terms of influenza prevention. Atlanta, in particular, experienced some of the most severe levels of influenza in the United States during a recent winter season.


Idaho
Best: Homeownership paradise โ Idaho stands as a haven for those seeking the joys of homeownership. The state was recently ranked as the number one state for home ownership due to its affordability and low foreclosure rates. Idaho offers an attractive landscape for individuals and families looking to establish roots and invest in their own homes, making it a desirable destination for those seeking stability and the fulfillment of the American dream.
Worst: Cyberbullying concerns โ However, amidst its accolades in homeownership, Idaho faces significant challenges when it comes to bullying, particularly in the realm of cyberbullying. The state was voted the worst for bullying, with a focus on online and social media platforms, which can have detrimental effects, especially on young individuals.


Illinois
Best: Pumpkin production hub โ Illinois proudly takes the spotlight as the leading state in pumpkin production. With 95 percent of everyoneโs favorite gourds in the United States being grown in Illinois, the state plays a crucial role in supplying the pumpkins that make fall so delightful with their abundance of pumpkin-flavored treats and seasonal decorations.
Worst: Insect-borne illnesses โ While enjoying the pumpkin patch, itโs important to take precautions against insect bites. Illinois faces challenges with high rates of mosquito-related illnesses, including West Nile virus, as well as tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease


Indiana
Best: Renting โ Why bother with purchasing when you have the option to rent? Indianapolis stands out as the ideal city for renters due to its remarkable affordability and remarkably low average monthly rents, which amount to a mere $806.
Worst: Environmental Contamination โ As long as you refrain from inhaling deeply in your new location, everything should be fine. Indianaโs coal plants produce a staggering 40 million pounds of toxic emissions, rendering it the most polluted state among the 50 in the United States.


Kentucky
Best: Iconic Fried Chicken โ The name says it all: Kentucky Fried Chicken. With a history dating back over 75 years, when the real-life Colonel Sanders began serving his delicious fried chicken at a humble roadside restaurant, Kentucky has become synonymous with the ultimate destination for indulging in crispy, golden chicken.
Worst: High Lung Cancer Rates โ Unfortunately, the residents of Kentucky may not have the opportunity to enjoy life to its fullest extent. The state holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest rate of lung cancer diagnoses. This disease, with a mere 56 percent five-year survival rate, poses significant challenges to those affected.


Louisiana
Best: Dating Opportunities โ Louisiana residents have plenty of opportunities for romance and connections as the state boasts the highest number of unmarried adults. With a large pool of potential partners, the dating scene in Louisiana offers a vibrant and diverse social landscape.
Worst: High Stress Levels โ Itโs no wonder that Louisianians experience heightened stress levels, considering the challenges they face. Factors such as high poverty rates, crime levels, and long working hours contribute to the overall stress burden in the state


Maine
Best: Dog Ownership โ If youโre a dog owner, Maine is the perfect place for you and your furry friend. Regardless of whether you have an energetic pit bull or an affectionate golden retriever, Maine embraces all dog breeds without any restrictions. Additionally, with an impressive 76 dog-friendly beaches, the state offers abundant opportunities for dogs to enjoy the outdoors and have a great time, making it a top destination for pups in the United States.
Worst: Lyme Disease โ However, itโs important to be aware that dogs can inadvertently introduce ticks into their surroundings when exploring the outdoors. Consequently, Maine has unfortunately earned the distinction of having the highest rate of Lyme disease.


Michigan
Positive Highlight: Golfing Opportunities โ If youโre a golf enthusiast, Michigan is the ideal destination for you. The state boasts the highest number of golf courses and country clubs per capita, providing ample opportunities for avid golfers to enjoy their favorite sport. Whether youโre a seasoned player or just starting out, Michigan offers a diverse range of golfing experiences.
Negative Aspect: Identity Theft โ However, itโs crucial to remain vigilant and take precautions to protect your personal information in Michigan. The state unfortunately holds the distinction of having the highest rate of identity theft.


Missouri
Positive Highlight: Philanthropy โ Missouri shines when it comes to charitable giving, with a particular focus on St. Louis. The city consistently ranks among the most charitable cities in the United States, reflecting the generosity and community spirit of its residents. The commitment to giving back and supporting various causes makes Missouri an exemplary state in terms of philanthropy.
Negative Aspect: Drug Use โ Unfortunately, along with its philanthropic achievements, Missouri also faces significant challenges in terms of drug use. According to a study, Missourians have the highest frequency of drug use compared to any other state, earning them the top spot in this concerning statistic.


Montana
Best: Cat Ownership โ Montana is the ideal destination for cat lovers. In the Treasure State, feline companions enjoy longer lives compared to anywhere else in the country, with an average lifespan of 14.3 years. This exceeds the national average by over two years, making Montana an excellent place to raise and care for cats, ensuring their well-being and longevity.
Worst: Internet Access โ Montana holds the unfortunate distinction of having the worst internet access among all 50 states, at least for cat lovers. The availability and speed of internet connectivity may not meet the expectations of those residing in Montana. However, there is a silver liningโthe state took a positive step by enacting its own net neutrality law earlier this year. This development brings hope for improved internet services and greater access to fast Wi-Fi, creating potential for better connectivity experiences in the future.


New Jersey
Best: Diners โ New Jersey proudly holds the title of the โDiner Capital of the World.โ With a remarkable number of over 500 nostalgic diners, the state offers a haven for comfort food enthusiasts. These diners serve up beloved classics such as old-fashioned root beer floats, generously portioned chicken-fried steak, and indulgent mashed potatoes. For those seeking a taste of nostalgia and delicious comfort food, New Jersey is the place to be.
Worst: Property Taxes โ However, residing in the Garden State comes with a significant financial burden. New Jersey has the highest property taxes in the country, with an average cost of $8,696, surpassing the national average of $3,399. Homeowners in New Jersey face substantial expenses in terms of property taxes, which can put a strain on their budgets.


New Mexico
Best: Doctorate Degrees โ New Mexico takes pride in having a high number of individuals who have earned doctorate degrees. As a state, it boasts the highest number of PhDs per capita compared to any other state. This demonstrates a strong emphasis on higher education and intellectual pursuits in New Mexico, with many residents achieving advanced academic accomplishments.
Worst: Car Theft โ Unfortunately, New Mexico faces significant challenges when it comes to auto theft. For the second consecutive year, the state has held the unfortunate distinction of having the highest rate of stolen vehicles.


New York
Best: Bagels โ New York is renowned for its exceptional bagels, and thereโs nothing quite like indulging in a New York-style bagel. These delights feature a perfect combination of fluffy dough on the inside and a crusty exterior. The cityโs rich bagel history dates back to the early 1900s when the first bagel shop in the United States opened its doors, solidifying New Yorkโs reputation as a bagel haven. Ever since, New York City has consistently provided us with the best breakfast optionโdelicious bagels.
Worst: Food Safety โ However, itโs important to be cautious when it comes to food safety in New York. The state experienced the highest number of reported food poisoning cases last year, particularly attributed to norovirus.


Ohio
Best: Deciding Elections โ Ohio holds significant importance in determining the outcome of presidential elections, earning it the reputation of being a key indicator of the nationโs voting trends. As the saying goes, โAs Ohio goes, so goes the nation,โ reflecting the stateโs historical influence on presidential elections. With a track record dating back to 1896, Ohio has consistently voted for the winning candidate in all but two elections (1944 and 1960). The stateโs electoral significance and predictive power make it a focal point of attention during every election cycle.
Worst: Job Creation โ Unfortunately, Ohio faces challenges in its job market. Despite being ranked 15th for jobs just two years ago in 2016, the state has witnessed a decline in recent years. Cleveland, in particular, has experienced a significant drop in job opportunities, plummeting to the very bottom of the job market list this year.


Oklahoma
Best: Barbecue โ If youโre a barbecue lover, Oklahoma is the place to be. The state boasts the most barbecue restaurants per capita, making it a haven for those seeking to satisfy their cravings for mouthwatering, sauce-slathered pork ribs and other delectable barbecue dishes. With a vibrant barbecue scene, Oklahoma offers a diverse range of flavors and culinary experiences for barbecue enthusiasts.
Worst: Walking โ Unfortunately, Oklahoma City faces challenges when it comes to walkability. The city received the worst walking score in the nation, which can be attributed to factors such as fast traffic and a lack of sidewalks.


Pennsylvania
Best: Hunting โ Pennsylvania is a haven for hunting enthusiasts. With the highest number of licensed hunters per capita, the state offers ample opportunities for those who enjoy the thrill and tradition of hunting. The abundance of licensed hunters, with over 20 hunters per square mile, showcases the popularity and significance of hunting in Pennsylvaniaโs culture and outdoor recreational activities.
Worst: Gas Taxes โ Unfortunately, Pennsylvania faces the challenge of having the highest gasoline taxes in the country. This means that residents of the state have to bear the burden of higher fuel costs when filling up their vehicles.


Utah
Best: Low Student Debt โ Utah stands out as a state with a positive track record when it comes to student debt. Graduating from college in Utah often means carrying a lower burden of student loans compared to many other states. In fact, Utah was the only state last year with an average student debt of less than $20,000. This lower average debt level can provide new graduates with greater financial flexibility and potentially better long-term financial prospects.
Worst: Workplace Equality โ Unfortunately, Utah faces challenges in terms of workplace equality. The state has the worst male to female executive ratio, indicating a significant disparity in leadership positions between genders. Additionally, Utah has the highest gender pay gap, highlighting significant differences in earnings between male and female employees.


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