We Ranked the States in America From Worst to Best, & Why Americans No Longer Want to Live There

America is a big country and Americans can choose a lot of places to live within the country. Have you ever wondered how these states compare? Of course, things like personal preference play a role, but these are the states and how Americans feel about them. Let’s take a few minutes to delve in and see what each state has to offer and what might be keeping some Americans away.

50. Alaska

Alaska is a snowy state with a lot of beautiful land. However, the state sees a lot more people leaving than moving there. It’s not just the remote location that keeps people away.

According to Juneau Empire, “A lot of wise people who follow economic and population trends list the factors as inadequate state support for K-12 schools and the university system, lack of available housing, a shortage of child care, and better economic opportunities elsewhere.”

49. Kentucky

Kentucky is the bluegrass state and it’s full of sweeping fields and, well, the home of bluegrass! Yet, it’s a lack of jobs that sends a lot of people from the state.

United Van Lines once stated, “More than half the people who move out of Kentucky are leaving to take a better job somewhere else.” With the cost of living rising and the minimum wage at $7.25, some of the wages that people in Kentucky can get aren’t enough to support them.

48. Arkansas

Arkansas is a beautiful state dubbed The Land of Opportunity. Despite the numerous natural parks and a pretty well-known college, the population is dropping.

A lot of this comes down to the fact that even if somewhere is beautiful, you still have to afford to live there. According to some sources, around 71% of people in Arkansas who leave are looking for work. Unemployment is high, and it makes it hard for many in the state to cover everything they need.

47. West Virginia

West Virginia has long been known for its natural beauty. However, the state also suffers from high unemployment rates that drive young people living there to move.

John Deskins, the director of the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at West Virginia University, offers some insight into part of the issue. He says, “Population growth is part of making the state attractive to potential businesses. A business has to be confident it’s going to find workers it needs before it locates in an area.”