The Best and Worst States to Raise a Family

WalletHub reviewed 52 different factors to determine the best and worst states to raise a family in, and one Northeast state placed first. Factors analyzed include home affordability, education, parental leave policies, family fun, health, and safety. Massachusetts ranked first, but its high scores in family fun, education, and health come at a cost. The state has high taxes, cost of living, and cost of homes. An average home in Massachusetts went for $609,500 in December—44% higher than the national average. The least family-friendly state on the list is New Mexico, reports Realtor.com.

"Northeastern states tend to rank higher in terms of education and child care. They also scored points when it comes to opportunities for family fun, like parks and recreational centers," says Gonzalez.

"Most children in these states have health insurance coverage, there are a lot of pediatricians, and life expectancy in general is higher in this part of the country," she continues. "Crime rate is lower here as well, and there are good schools that also offer extracurricular activities, and plenty of child day care services to choose from."

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