11 U.S. States You’d Be Better Off Skipping

In a recent study by ConsumerAffairs, California ranked first¹ among all 50 states as the worst place to move to in 2024. 

This surprising result challenges the Golden State’s reputation as a dream destination. But California isn’t alone in facing livability challenges. 

Here’s why these states might make you think twice before planning your next trip or relocation.

1. Mississippi

Mississippi consistently ranks at the bottom of many quality-of-life metrics, earning it the top spot on our list. The state struggles with the highest poverty rate in the nation, at 19.1% as of 2022.^(ref)

Healthcare access remains a critical concern, with Mississippi having one of the lowest ratios of active physicians per capita. The state also grapples with high obesity rates and limited access to preventive care, contributing to poor overall health outcomes for its residents.

2. Louisiana

Louisiana’s vibrant culture can’t mask its serious challenges. The state has the second-highest poverty rate in the country, trailing only Mississippi.

Crime rates in Louisiana are alarmingly high, particularly in urban areas. New Orleans, for instance, had a murder rate of 70 per 100,000 residents in 2022, making it one of the most dangerous cities in the United States.^(ref) The state’s education system also struggles, with low high school graduation rates and poor standardized test scores.

3. New Mexico

New Mexico’s stunning landscapes belie its socioeconomic struggles. The state has the highest property crime rate in the nation and the second-highest violent crime rate.

Education is another area where New Mexico falls short. The state ranks 50th in K-12 education, with low high school graduation rates and poor student performance on standardized tests.^(ref) These factors, combined with high unemployment rates, contribute to the state’s low quality of life ranking.

4. Alabama

Alabama faces significant challenges in healthcare and education. The state has one of the highest rates of cardiovascular deaths in the country and struggles with high obesity rates.^(ref)

In terms of education, Alabama ranks 47th in the nation. The state’s schools face funding challenges and low teacher salaries, which contribute to poor student outcomes. 

5. Arkansas

Arkansas grapples with high poverty rates and limited access to healthcare. The state ranks 48th in healthcare quality and access, with a high uninsured rate and limited availability of medical professionals.

6. Alaska

While Alaska boasts breathtaking natural beauty, life in the Last Frontier comes with significant challenges. The state has a significantly higher cost of living compared to the national average, ranking as the fourth-most expensive state in the USA.

Groceries in Alaska are particularly costly, with the state being the second most expensive for food purchases. This is largely due to the need to transport many goods long distances, especially to more rural areas

7. Kansas

Kansas may be known for its prairies, but life isn’t always idyllic for its residents. The state faces significant challenges in childcare accessibility and affordability.^(ref) 

Moreover, Kansas has some of the most expensive childcare in the nation. A married couple earning a median income can expect to spend nearly 14% of it on childcare alone.

These factors make it particularly challenging for families with young children to thrive in the Sunflower State.

8. South Carolina

South Carolina grapples with high crime rates and poor health outcomes. The state has the fifth-highest violent crime rate in the nation,^(ref) with particularly high rates of aggravated assault.

The state also ranks low when it comes to healthcare, with high rates of obesity and cardiovascular deaths. Limited access to healthcare in rural areas further exacerbates these issues.

9. Texas

The Lone Star State may be attracting new residents in droves, but it’s not without significant challenges. Texas ranks near the bottom in primary care providers per capita, with just 182 per 100,000 residents.^(ref)

Additionally, Texas leads the nation in residents without health insurance, and a staggering 19% of Texans with credit scores have medical debt in collections. The state’s restrictive policies on reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ issues have also sparked controversy and potential backlash.

10. Kentucky

Kentucky grapples with high poverty rates and poor health outcomes. The state has one of the highest rates of cancer deaths in the country^(ref) and struggles with high rates of obesity and smoking.

11. West Virginia

West Virginia faces significant challenges in healthcare and economic opportunity. The state has the highest drug use rate in the nation^(ref) and struggles with high rates of obesity and smoking.

Economic opportunities in West Virginia are limited, with the state having one of the lowest median household incomes in the country. The decline of the coal industry has left many communities struggling with high unemployment rates and limited prospects for economic growth.

Source:
1. Consumer Affairs