Home is where the heart is, and for families, it’s about more than just the house. It’s about the neighborhood, the city, and the state. All these factors shape how families enjoy their lives together. Choosing the right place to raise a family means looking for opportunities, stability, and a good quality of life.
In 2026, many families are thinking carefully about where to settle down. With remote work options and changing school standards, the choice of home is more important than ever. People are moving for various reasons, and some are still deciding where to go.
This year, a list was created to highlight the best and worst states for families. If you’re young and thinking about starting a family, or if you’re already a parent, this list could help you out.
Here are the top 10 states to raise a family in 2026:
1. Massachusetts
2. Minnesota
3. North Dakota
4. Wisconsin
5. Nebraska
6. New York
7. Connecticut
8. New Hampshire
9. Illinois
10. Maine
On the flip side, here are the bottom 10 states that are considered the worst for families:
1. Georgia
2. South Carolina
3. Oklahoma
4. Arkansas
5. Louisiana
6. Alabama
7. Nevada
8. Mississippi
9. West Virginia
10. New Mexico
Curious about where other states rank? Check out the full report for more details!
