The Best States to Raise a Family in 2025: Where Community, Affordability, and Opportunity Meet 

Where do you see your family thriving? Maybe it’s in a close-knit neighborhood where the kids can ride bikes until dusk, or a vibrant city with world-class museums and parks just around the corner. 

Choosing where to raise your family is one of life’s biggest decisions. You have to balance affordability, safety, and job opportunities with the desire for strong schools, a welcoming community, and a lifestyle that feels right for you and your children. 

That’s why we’ve taken care of the research for you, analyzing data from dozens of trusted sources to uncover the best states for families in 2025. Whether you’re drawn to New England’s top-rated schools or the Southeast’s blend of sunshine and affordability, these are the places where families can truly thrive. 

For young adults weighing options, explore our guide to the best states for young adults. 

The Best States for Families in 2025: Overview   

State	Region	Cost of Living (vs. U.S. Avg)	Median Household Income	Average Home Price (3 Bedroom)	Why it Stands Out
Massachusetts	Northeast	+45%	$101,341	$560,849	Top schools, low crime, robust healthcare
Minnesota	Midwest	-5%	$89,915	$312,964	High quality of life, outdoor access
North Dakota	Midwest	-8.1%	$85,647	$246,697	Low unemployment family-friendly policies
Georgia	Southeast	-8.7%	$74,664	$284,809	HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships, affordability
Nebraska	Midwest	-6.9%	$80,672	$251,933	Affordable childcare, strong communities
New Hampshire	Northeast	+12%	$96,010	$463,093	Safest state, top public schools
New York	Northeast	+23.3%	$92,066	$318,382	Cultural diversity, premier universities
Illinois	Midwest	-5.6%	$83,958	$251,379	Top STEM programs, jobs, top-rated schools
Wisconsin	Midwest	-3%	$78,794	$287,687	Low-cost living, thriving family activities
Maine	Northeast	+12%	$75,160	$395,378	Outdoor paradise, tight-knit towns

Data sources: WalletHub (2025) and World Population Review (Cost of Living), U.S. Census Bureau (Median Household Income), U.S. News Education Rankings (Education Ranking), Yahoo Finance (Average Home Price) . 

What makes a state great for families? 

When it comes to raising a family, not all states are created equal. The best places for families strike a careful balance between affordability, safety, education (both K – 12 and higher), healthcare, and a vibrant community life. In this section, we’ll break down the key factors that set top states apart—like reasonable housing and childcare costs, low crime rates, strong public schools, and access to parks and family activities. 

Affordability 

Housing, childcare, and healthcare costs dominate family budgets. States like Nebraska and Wisconsin offset lower incomes with lower living costs, while Massachusetts leverages high salaries to balance pricier housing. 

Education 

Top-tier early childhood programs, public schools and colleges set states apart. Massachusetts’ schools outrank all others, while Minnesota invests heavily in STEM initiatives. 

Healthcare & Wellness 

Access to pediatric care and mental health services is a cornerstone of family well-being in Georgia. The state has made notable investments in expanding health coverage for children, with Medicaid and PeachCare providing insurance to about 2 million Georgians under 18—over half of whom are children from lower-income families. 

Community & Lifestyle 

Parks, museums, and inclusive policies matter. Illinois’ suburbs offer world-class amenities, while North Dakota’s small towns prioritize community events. 

The Top 10 States for Families in 2025 

From coast to heartland, the states below prove family-friendly living comes in many forms. Whether prioritizing top-tier schools, outdoor access, or tight-knit communities, each offers unique strengths.  

Based on 2025 rankings from WalletHub, U.S. News, and other family-focused metrics, this list highlights states excelling in safety, education, and community while meeting modern needs like healthcare access.  

Note: These states are not ranked in any particular order. Each state offers exceptional amenities and quality of life for families, and the right one for you will depend on your unique needs and lifestyle goals.  

1. Massachusetts 

Why it stands out: Top public schools, low poverty rates, and tons of family-friendly amenities. 

• Affordability: High incomes offset steep housing costs (median home: $630,200). 
• Education: #1 in K–12 performance and college readiness. 
• Lifestyle: Cape Cod beaches, Boston’s cultural institutions, plus four-season outdoor activities. 

Families in Massachusetts enjoy a rich mix of history, culture, and academic excellence. With some of the best public schools in the country and access to world-renowned healthcare, parents can feel confident their children are supported at every stage. The state’s vibrant cities and scenic coastal towns provide endless opportunities for family outings, from museum visits in Boston to beach days on Cape Cod. 

2. Minnesota 

Why it stands out: Best work-life balance and top-ranked school districts. 

• Affordability: Median home price ($325,000) aligns with national averages. 
• Education: #3 in early childhood program access. 
• Lifestyle: 10,000+ lakes, Minneapolis’ family-friendly festivals, and a strong arts scene. 

Minnesota is known for its strong sense of community and excellent work-life balance. Families enjoy access to quality schools and a wealth of outdoor activities, from boating on the state’s thousands of lakes to attending local festivals year-round. The Twin Cities area offers cultural amenities and family-friendly neighborhoods that make it easy to settle in and thrive. 

3. North Dakota 

Why it stands out: Happiest families and booming job markets. 

• Affordability: Gas prices 20% below U.S. average, low property taxes. 
• Education: High graduation rates and STEM funding. 
• Lifestyle: Badlands hiking, family ranches, and tight-knit communities. 

North Dakota combines small-town charm with economic opportunity, making it a great place for families seeking safety and affordability. The state’s low crime rates and strong public schools create a secure environment where kids can grow and explore. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the wide-open spaces and natural beauty that encourage active, healthy lifestyles. 

4. Georgia 

Why it stands out: HOPE Scholarship, affordable living and outdoor access balance affordability with opportunity. 

• Affordability: Columbus homes cost 40% below U.S. average; median income $56,000. 
• Education: Public schools score 7.8/10; HOPE covers 90% of college tuition and Zell Miller covers 100% for eligible students. 
• Lifestyle: Atlanta museums, Blue Ridge hikes, and Savannah’s historic charm offer family-friendly diversity. 

Georgia balances vibrant city life with Southern hospitality and natural beauty. Families benefit from affordable housing in mid-sized cities like Columbus, or suburbs surrounding Atlanta, both offering lower costs of living than average. The state also has excellent college education opportunities supported by the HOPE Scholarship. From vibrant neighborhoods to charming small towns, there are countless communities across the state that offer a welcoming environment for families.

5. Nebraska 

Why it stands out: Affordable childcare and strong communities in low-cost cities.

• Affordability: Median home $232,100 (near national low); cost of living 9% below average. 
• Education: 8.5/10 schools with STEM-focused rural districts. 
• Lifestyle: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Sandhill crane migrations attract nature-loving families. 

Nebraska offers families an affordable lifestyle with a strong focus on community and education. Cities like Omaha provide access to top-rated schools and unique attractions like the Henry Doorly Zoo, making it easy to create lasting family memories. The state’s rural areas also emphasize STEM education, preparing kids for future success in a supportive environment. 

6. New Hampshire 

Why it stands out: A safe state with top schools and outdoor access. 

• Affordability: Median home $483,500 (high but offset by $96k median income). 
• Education: 9.1/10 schools; 94% graduation rate. 
• Lifestyle: White Mountains hiking and tax-free shopping in Merrimack outlets. 

New Hampshire is prized for its safety (One of the lowest violent crime rates (125.6 per 100,000) nationwide), excellent schools, and beautiful natural surroundings. While home prices are higher, strong median incomes and no state income tax help families stretch their budgets further. The state’s small towns foster tight-knit communities where parents feel secure raising their children. 

7. New York 

Why it stands out: Cultural diversity and premier universities, despite high costs. 

• Affordability: Median home $483,500 (NYC skews higher); adjusted income $92k. 
• Education: 8.9/10 schools; top-ranked SUNY system. 
• Lifestyle: Broadway shows, Adirondack trails, and Long Island beaches. 

New York offers a diverse range of experiences for families, from urban cultural hubs to serene natural escapes. Suburban areas provide access to highly ranked schools, while families can enjoy Broadway shows, hiking in the Adirondacks, and beaches on Long Island. The state’s rich educational resources and cultural offerings help children thrive academically and socially. 

8. Illinois 

Why it stands out: Great STEM programs, top schools, and Big Ten culture. 

• Affordability: Median home $250k in suburbs like Naperville; 98% cost-of-living index. 
• Education: 8.4/10 schools; #11 in early childhood programs. 
• Lifestyle: Lake Michigan beaches, Wrigley Field games, and Magnificent Mile shopping. 

Illinois blends Midwestern charm with big-city amenities where families can find excellent schools and vibrant communities. Outdoor activities along Lake Michigan and cultural events like baseball games and festivals provide fun for all ages. The state’s balance of affordability and opportunity makes it a strong choice for raising kids. 

9. Wisconsin 

Why it stands out: Low-cost living with top-tier universities and outdoor access. 

• Affordability: Median home $325k; cost of living 4% below U.S. average. 
• Education: #8 in Pre-K–12; UW-Madison ranks top 10 for research. 
• Lifestyle: Door County cherry orchards, Packers games, and Milwaukee’s Summerfest. 

Wisconsin combines affordable living with a strong educational system and plenty of outdoor recreation. Families can explore cherry orchards in Door County, cheer on the Packers, and enjoy Milwaukee’s lively festivals. The state’s welcoming communities and access to quality universities create a nurturing environment for children. 

10. Maine 

Why it stands out: Coastal charm and tight-knit communities prioritize wellness. 

• Affordability: Cost of living 8% above U.S. average (MIT Living Wage Calculator); median family income: $75,160. 
• Education: 8.2/10 schools; Bowdoin College’s need-blind admissions. 
• Lifestyle: Acadia National Park, Portland’s food scene, and lobster-bake traditions. 

Maine’s coastal beauty and close-knit communities make it a peaceful place to raise a family. Parents appreciate the state’s strong focus on wellness and education, while kids enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in Acadia National Park and exploring Portland’s vibrant food scene. Maine offers a slower pace of life that many families find refreshing and supportive. 

The Best Southeastern States for Raising Kids 

The Southeast isn’t just sweet tea and sunshine—it’s a region where families find unexpected gems, from Atlanta’s cultural buzz to Tennessee’s tax-friendly trails. Here’s how three Southern states balance affordability, education, and lifestyle to create thriving environments for raising kids. 

Note: Georgia is one of the best southeastern states for families but we’ve already discussed above, so we won’t list it again here. 

North Carolina 

Why it stands out: Tax-friendly living with mountain access and cultural energy. 

• Affordability: Research Triangle’s tech jobs offset a 95% cost of living, with median incomes at $72,000. 
• Education: Top-ranked districts in Cary and Chapel Hill attract families prioritizing STEM programs. 
• Lifestyle: From the Research Triangle’s tech-driven energy to Asheville’s arts scene and the Outer Banks’ coastal charm, North Carolina offers families a wide range of recreational and cultural experiences. Parks, greenways, and community events are plentiful, making it easy to stay active and engage.

North Carolina offers families a vibrant mix of career opportunities and outdoor fun. Kids can thrive in top-ranked school districts while enjoying weekends at the beach or exploring mountain trails. With welcoming communities and abundant cultural attractions, it’s easy to imagine raising a family where work-life balance and adventure go hand in hand. 

Tennessee 

Why it stands out: Also tax-friendly, with no income tax and strong school districts.

• Affordability: No state income tax and a cost of living 11% below average. 
• Education: While public school quality varies, suburbs like Maryville and Collierville are recognized for their top-rated districts and high graduation rates. 
• Lifestyle: Nashville’s family-friendly festivals and Smoky Mountains access appeal to diverse interests. 

Tennessee’s tax-friendly environment and scenic landscapes create an inviting place for families to grow. From lively music festivals in Nashville to hiking in the Smoky Mountains, there’s always something to explore together. Safe neighborhoods and strong suburban schools give parents confidence, making Tennessee a great place to call home. 

South Carolina 

Why it stands out: Coastal affordability and top-rated STEM schools. 

• Affordability: Suburbs like Fort Mill and Mount Pleasant balance coastal charm with reasonable costs, where median home prices hover near the national average and utilities run 10% below U.S. norms. Tech jobs in Greenville and Charleston’s tourism sector help offset living expenses, with median household incomes reaching $63,623. 
• Education: Greenville County schools, including award-winning STEM programs, private institutions, and Charleston’s Academic Magnet High School consistently ranks among the nation’s best. 
• Lifestyle: From Columbia’s interactive museums to Hilton Head’s bike trails and Myrtle Beach’s boardwalk thrills, families enjoy a mix of Southern hospitality and outdoor adventure. Coastal towns like Bluffton add historic charm with oak-lined streets and community festivals. 

South Carolina blends coastal beauty with family-friendly communities and excellent schools. Whether kayaking through Lowcountry swamps or enjoying festivals in historic towns, families find both adventure and comfort. The state’s affordable living and warm hospitality make it a welcoming place to raise children surrounded by nature and culture. 

Is Moving to Georgia Right for Your Family? 

The Southeast offers a mix of affordability and lifestyle perks, though priorities vary. Families seeking top schools often choose Georgia’s suburbs or North Carolina’s tech hubs, while those prioritizing low costs and outdoor access lean toward Tennessee. Georgia stands out for balancing Atlanta’s opportunities with nearby cities like Columbus, where affordability meets community-driven living. 

The best state depends on your priorities: Massachusetts excels in education, the Midwest offers affordability, and Georgia balances Southern charm with economic opportunity. Before relocating, consider visiting Columbus’ Connector Program, where locals guide you through schools, neighborhoods, and childcare options. Ready to explore? Contact our team today to find the right school districts, neighborhoods, and activities for your family.