Ever wondered which states are acing it and which ones are, well, flunking the test of good governance? We’ve got the inside scoop on the states that are struggling to keep up. From crippling poverty rates to economies that just can't seem to catch a break, these 20 states have earned the unfortunate title of being the worst-run in the country.
Grab a seat, because this list might just surprise you. Here are the 20 worst-run states in America, ranked.
West Virginia
West Virginia kicks off our list, ranking 40th overall. The state is grappling with the nation's highest poverty rate at 17.1%, a declining population, and a high unemployment rate. To make matters worse, about 9.3% of its residents are uninsured, which contributes to poor health outcomes. A lack of economic and educational opportunities continues to negatively impact the quality of life for many in the Mountain State.
Hawaii
Don't let the stunning beaches fool you; Hawaii has some serious problems. It boasts the highest housing costs in the nation, with an average home price of a whopping $800,000. This financial strain contributes to a 9.1% poverty rate and leaves 6.3% of residents uninsured. While 92.4% of adults have a high school diploma, challenges in higher education access remain, making life in paradise a struggle for many.
Alabama
Alabama comes in at 38th overall, facing major hurdles. It has a high poverty rate of 15.2% and an alarmingly high crime rate, ranking 48th for safety. Access to healthcare is another big issue, with about 17% of the population uninsured. On top of that, only 87% of adults hold a high school diploma, creating a tough environment for residents trying to get ahead.
Kentucky
Ranking 37th overall, Kentucky is plagued by high poverty and low educational attainment, with only 86% of adults graduating from high school. High unemployment rates and inadequate access to education and healthcare have led to a diminished quality of life for many. With stagnant economic growth, escaping poverty is a difficult feat for many residents in the Bluegrass State.
Texas
Everything might be bigger in Texas, but that includes its problems. The state ranks 36th overall and has one of the lowest homeownership rates in the nation at just 62.8%. The education system is also struggling, with only 88% of adults holding a high school diploma. These issues contribute to economic instability and a lower quality of life for a significant number of Texans.
Washington
Washington has a mixed record, ranking 35th overall. While its economy is strong, it gets a failing grade in affordability. Housing costs are the 49th highest in the nation, with rent in cities like Seattle soaring over $2,000 a month. Even with plenty of jobs, the high cost of living makes it tough for residents to get by.
Delaware
Delaware is another state that suffers from a high cost of living, particularly when it comes to housing. The average home price is around $360,000, which is a stretch for those earning the median income of $40,000. With an 11% poverty rate and 12% of the population uninsured, many residents find it hard to afford basic necessities.
Tennessee
Ranking 33rd overall, Tennessee struggles with a high crime rate, placing it 32nd in the nation for safety. The state’s 13.9% poverty rate and concerning educational outcomes create significant obstacles for residents. These combined factors make it difficult for many to access education, healthcare, and safe living environments.
Michigan
Michigan comes in at 32nd overall, with a struggling economy marked by a low income growth rate of just 2.8%. The state has a poverty rate of 10%, and about 11.2% of the population is uninsured. These economic and educational challenges make it difficult for many residents to find quality jobs and access essential services, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.
Missouri
Missouri's biggest issue is its high crime rate, which is the 41st worst in the nation. While the housing market is relatively affordable, healthcare access is a major concern, with 14% of the population uninsured. Add to that a 13% poverty rate and lackluster educational attainment, and it's clear the state has a lot of work to do.
Arizona
Arizona lands as the 10th worst-run state due to significant problems with safety and education. While its economy, quality of life, and affordability are not at the very bottom of the list, they aren't in the top 10 either. Arizona still has a long way to go to pull itself out of this rut.
Oregon
Oregon ranks even lower than South Carolina in safety, coming in as the third-worst in the country. To add to its troubles, it's not an affordable place to live, ranking 41st in that category. The state’s only strong point is its quality of life, which is likely thanks to its clean air and natural beauty.
South Carolina
South Carolina has the fifth-worst safety ranking in the country and the 10th-lowest education rank. Its economy and quality of life aren't much to brag about either. The only area where it performs well is affordability, but that's probably because not many people are clamoring to live there.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma hits rock bottom in education, ranking 50th in the United States. A suffering economy is likely a major contributor to this problem. While it's not the absolute worst in every other category, it still ranks in the bottom half of the country for everything except affordability.
Mississippi
Mississippi is no stranger to hardship, holding the title for the highest poverty rate in the nation. It also has the third-lowest percentage of adults with a high school diploma and the fifth-lowest rate of insured individuals. To top it all off, it has the second-lowest quality of life, just behind Alaska.
Nevada
While not as bad as New York or California, Nevada residents are finding it nearly impossible to afford a home. The state has the third-lowest homeownership rate due to high housing costs and a struggling economy. It's also tied with New Mexico for the fifth-lowest percentage of educated residents.
Alaska
Alaska has a laundry list of issues, offering the lowest quality of life out of all 50 states. Alaskans work more hours on average than anyone else in the country but have the third-lowest income growth to show for it. And if you're looking for a night out, good luck—it has the fewest restaurants per capita.
Arkansas
Arkansas takes the number three spot on our list, thanks to a high crime rate and the fifth-highest percentage of the population living in poverty. While the state is affordable, its economy is suffering, ranking 45th in the country. Education and quality of life are other areas where this poorly run state continues to fall short.
New Mexico
New Mexico is the second worst-run state in the country, with the third-highest percentage of its population living in poverty. It also has the fifth-lowest percentage of adults with a high school diploma or higher. As a grim reflection of these struggles, New Mexico has the highest crime rate in the entire country.
Louisiana
Louisiana lands at the very bottom of the list, making it the worst-run state in America. It has the second-highest poverty rate in the country and one of the lowest income growth rates. Education is another massive issue, with the fourth-lowest percentage of adults having a high school diploma. With numbers like these, it's no surprise that Louisiana also has the fourth-highest crime rate.
