A new study ranks New Jersey as the second best state to raise a family.
Connecticut earned the top spot with strong scores in education and safety, though affordability remained a challenge. New Jersey, ranked second, scored highest in safety among the top three, while Maine (ranked third) was noted for its affordability compared to the other leaders.
Though New Jersey isn’t the most affordable state to live in, a robust education system and low crime rates makes it an ideal state to raise a family.
New Hampshire was named the safest state overall, with the lowest rates of violent and property crime. Mississippi was ranked the most affordable state, scoring highest in cost-of-living factors, including childcare expenses. Massachusetts topped the list for education, boasting the highest graduation rate and favorable student-to-teacher ratios.
The study used data from each state to calculate a Family-Friendly State Score, weighting education, safety, and affordability equally. Metrics included student-teacher ratios, crime rates, cost-of-living indices, and childcare expenses.
“A low cost of living means your hard-earned money goes further, while a safe community provides peace of mind,” said Kira Abernathy, lead attorney at Your Law Firm. “Top education gives your kids the best start in life.”
The study found that the balance between education, safety, and affordability varies across states. While Massachusetts ranks high in education, it falls short in affordability. Mississippi, despite ranking last in education, offers the lowest childcare costs, allowing families to allocate resources elsewhere.
The full study, including rankings across all categories, is available through Your Law Firm’s website.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.