25 Worst States to Live and Work In

In this article, we will take a look at the 25 worst states to live and work In.

Regrettably, not all states offer an attractive living environment. Indeed, certain states can be rather unappealing owing to factors like high taxes, subpar infrastructure, and a diminished quality of life. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), the concept of measuring the quality of life aims to delve into how individuals assess their standing in society, and their capacity to fulfill their needs, achieve their aspirations, and address their worries. The well-being of a population hinges on both tangible factors like housing and income, and intangible aspects such as health, education, and security. The systematic measurement of quality of life on a large scale assists researchers and policymakers in gaining deeper insights into the effectiveness of programs and government services in catering to the needs of their citizens.

Despite the United States ranking 17th in our list of the 25 Countries with the Best Quality of Life, the presence of various programs and policies results in significantly different experiences among the different states. The USA  holds the distinction of being the world’s economic and military superpower. It exerts a substantial global cultural influence, primarily through its pervasive popular culture manifested in music, cinema, and television. The U.S. operates as a federal republic grounded in its constitution and comprises 50 states. With the largest gross domestic product (GDP) on a global scale, the U.S. boasts the most advanced technological capabilities. Furthermore, the United States possesses substantial natural resources, leading the world in oil and natural gas production while also holding the largest coal reserves. The country ranks 1st in our list of the 20 Countries with the Best Education. Within its borders, you can find some of the premier universities that offer the Best Scholarships in the World for Female International Students.

According to recent reports, there has been notable global improvement in social progress over the past decade, but not for the United States. The Social Progress Index assessed that among 163 countries, only the United States, Brazil, and Hungary experienced a decline in the last ten years. While these declines were relatively modest, the United States witnessed the most significant reduction in its overall score. The index ranked the United States 28th in social progress. The index evaluates quality of life across dimensions like personal safety, health and wellness, environmental quality, personal freedom and choice, and inclusiveness. This marks a considerable drop of 12 positions from the inaugural full index in 2014 when the United States held the 16th spot. The decline in the index ranking of the United States can be attributed to diminishing scores in rights and inclusiveness, trends that gained momentum in 2016, along with gradual but consistent decreases in personal safety, health, and access to high-quality K-12 education.

A slight majority of U.S. adults, comprising 56%, express some degree of optimism when envisioning the state of the country in 2050, as per a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center. However, this optimism wanes when Americans are asked to consider specific aspects of how the United States might evolve. A majority of respondents anticipate that income inequality will worsen in the next three decades. They also hold the view that the economy will weaken, the national debt will become more burdensome, environmental conditions will deteriorate, and healthcare will become less affordable than it is today. Additionally, most believe that the United States will diminish in its global significance, and roughly two-thirds foresee heightened domestic political divisions. Notably, Democrats and Republicans exhibit notably different priorities when it comes to the policies they believe would enhance the quality of life for future generations.

Our Methodology

In order to create our list of the 25 worst states to live and work in, we conducted thorough research and gathered data from separate sources. We then assessed each state’s performance across various criteria, including wage policies, worker protection measures, purchasing power, weather conditions, safety and healthcare standards, as well as the cost of living. By computing the average scores based on these metrics, we were able to come up with our compilation of the 25 least favorable states for both living and working.

So without further ado, let us now discuss our list of the 25 worst states to live and work in.

25 Worst States to Live and Work In

25. Virginia

If you’re a retiree and are considering living in Virginia, you should think about some factors first as it also ranks 25th in our list of the worst states to live and work in for retirees. Like many major metropolitan areas, traffic congestion can be a concern in Virginia. Despite the availability of multiple public transportation options in Virginia, a substantial number of residents still opt to drive, exacerbating the congestion.

In terms of taxation, Virginia maintains a relatively high tax rate. In Virginia, the sales tax rate is slightly higher at 5.3%, and there are additional income tax brackets ranging from 2% to 5.75%. However, if you are contemplating retirement in Virginia, there is a silver lining: the state does not impose taxes on social security income. Virginia also displays a high cost of living, exemplified by a median home sale price of $405,000, marking a year-over-year increase of 4.6%.

24. New Hampshire

New Hampshire grapples with a significant issue of drug addiction, particularly involving opioids. The state has witnessed a rise in drug overdose fatalities, with 2022 recording the highest numbers since 2017. Additionally, New Hampshire’s weather is widely recognized as among the worst in the USA. If you’re seeking a location with mild temperatures and abundant sunshine, this isn’t the ideal choice. During the winter season, one can expect snowfall, ice storms, and frigid temperatures. The state is notorious for its capricious extreme weather events, including winter storms, floods, tropical cyclones, coastal storms, and substantial snowfall.

23. Pennsylvania

Ranking 23rd in our list of the worst states to live and work in is Pennsylvania. In this state, while not all items incur a sales tax, additional local taxes support city projects and infrastructure maintenance. In this state, particularly in its larger cities, frequent traffic delays occur due to high traffic volumes and intricate road layouts, making car travel potentially dangerous and confusing. On the other hand, Pennsylvania regularly experiences harsh winter weather due to its geographical location, characterized by heavy snowfall and ice storms. Those unaccustomed to driving in such conditions or enduring extremely cold winters might encounter challenges when living in the state.

22. West Virginia

Living in West Virginia poses several challenges, starting with a notably high unemployment rate that can make finding decent employment a struggle. Additionally, the state lacks major corporations, prompting many individuals to contemplate relocating elsewhere. The region may not draw as many ambitious professionals as other areas, making it difficult to establish a robust business network, which can potentially hinder your career progression. Furthermore, the generally low-income levels in West Virginia can present difficulties in achieving substantial financial success in your endeavors.

21. Wisconsin

Wisconsin ranks 21st in our list of the worst states to live and work in. Residing in a state abundant in natural beauty comes with drawbacks like limited public transportation in certain regions, necessitating reliance on bikes, or the kindness of others for rides. Additionally, homeowners in Wisconsin frequently voice concerns about property taxes, and in some areas, they must cover the costs of sidewalk repairs, regardless of fault, if such infrastructure exists.

20. Wyoming

Wyoming presents limited job opportunities, posing challenges for individuals in search of employment opportunities and career growth. The state also contends with harsh winter conditions, potentially daunting for those unfamiliar with frigid temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy conditions. Furthermore, residing in Wyoming can be financially demanding, characterized by above-average expenses for goods, services, and housing.

19. Iowa

Iowa faces frequent natural disasters, including hailstorms, floods, thunderstorms, and tornadoes, with tornadoes being particularly common in May and June. Floods and hailstorms can disrupt residents’ ability to cultivate their preferred crops. Winters in the region are exceptionally cold, with substantial snowfall in January. To endure the winter months, it’s necessary to winterize your home and maintain a clear driveway.

Infrastructure in Iowa can pose challenges. Although some quality hospitals exist, they may not adequately serve the entire population, requiring lengthy journeys for medical attention in certain areas. Additionally, limited school options are available outside major cities, potentially taking into consideration alternatives for enhanced educational opportunities for students, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming for school drop-offs and pickups.

18. Kentucky

A challenge of residing in Kentucky lies in its educational statistics as it is one of the 25 Most Illiterate States in America. This educational landscape impacts daily life in Kentucky as it divides daily conversations into two distinct categories. The first comprises college-educated individuals who tend to be more receptive to discussion and continuous learning. The second category consists of individuals who idealize tradition and the good old days. Conversing with the second group can be more challenging since they are less open to embracing new knowledge and often stick to familiar topics. Additionally, the low cost of living in Kentucky can be attributed to the combination of low wages and a challenging job market. In fact, Kentucky is part of the 15 States with the Worst Job Markets.

17. North Dakota

North Dakota witnesses all four seasons, with winter taking center stage. It’s not unusual to endure extended periods of 10 days or more when temperatures fail to reach the freezing point, let alone zero degrees. Additionally, the region experiences frequent and strong winds, resulting in potentially perilous wind chill conditions. Abundant snowfall is another characteristic, with the ground often covered in snow continuously for 2-3 months.

While the state maintains an overall low crime rate, the largest city, Fargo, with a population of 120,000, experiences a notable amount of criminal activity. In fact, it reports a violent crime rate of 4.65 per 1,000 residents, surpassing both the national average of 4 and the state’s average of 3.2. Notably, instances of rape in Fargo exceed the national average for cities of any size by more than double.

16. Idaho

Ranking 16th in our list of the worst states to live and work in is Idaho. In Idaho, 88% of the state’s land area comprises rural counties. Residing in one of these rural communities, such as Island Park, could entail longer drives to access essential services and amenities. Furthermore, the state’s lower population density can pose challenges when searching for specific job opportunities or social interactions.

15. Kansas

During the spring in Kansas, tornadoes are a concern. Fortunately, there is an effective warning system in place, signaled by sirens. Given the potential for tornadoes during thunderstorms, closely monitoring springtime weather is advisable. Winters are generally manageable, but occasionally, substantial snowstorms can occur. Summers tend to be quite hot in Kansas. The state experiences short-lived but intense hot and cold spells, which typically pass relatively swiftly.

Additionally, Kansas permits counties, school boards, and cities to fund themselves through property taxes and sales taxes, resulting in varying sales tax rates that can approach 10 percent, differing across different regions of the state. Income tax rates are relatively low but are still applicable. Property taxes exhibit significant variability depending on the locality and are imposed by local governments.

14. Utah

Ranking 14th in our list of the worst states to live and work in, is Utah. A noteworthy aspect of residing in Utah is the scarce rainfall and the exceedingly dry air, necessitating frequent lip balm application to prevent severely chapped lips and the regular use of lotion to combat excessively dry skin. A prevalent concern by Utah residents pertains to housing. Similar to many other regions in the United States, housing affordability has emerged as a significant challenge in Utah.

13. Georgia

Georgia, situated on the Eastern coast and bordering other coastal states, faces a consistent threat of tropical activity throughout hurricane season. There are instances in winter when sub-tropical storms can lead to problems and power outages. Being well-prepared for extreme weather conditions is imperative here, especially during the summer and fall months.

Furthermore, as is common in growing regions or states, certain highly urban areas with elevated crime rates continue to develop in Georgia. However, while most crimes occur in densely populated regions, criminal activity can potentially emerge in various areas.

12. Mississippi

In addition to its elevated poverty rate, Mississippi holds the distinction of having the lowest-ranked healthcare system in the United States across various critical metrics. When considering factors such as healthcare access, quality of care, public health indicators, healthcare expenses, typical emergency room wait times, and life expectancy, Mississippi consistently ranks at the bottom of the list, highlighting the significant healthcare challenges faced by its residents.

11. North Carolina

North Carolina ranks 11th in our list of the worst states to live and work in. Its residents face a relatively substantial tax burden, and the state imposes taxes through various channels. North Carolina adheres to a flat income tax system, meaning that regardless of income level, everyone is subject to the same tax rate, which stands at a relatively high 4.75%.

Moreover, North Carolina contends with elevated crime rates, a concerning trend that prospective, law-abiding residents might prefer to avoid when considering a move to this state. This necessitates a vigilant approach to lifestyle choices and settlement decisions, especially considering North Carolina’s placement in the lower tier of states for both violent and property crimes.

10. Tennessee

Tennessee, situated in Tornado Alley, exposes its residents to severe weather conditions depending on the season. The state witnesses an annual average of approximately 50 tornadoes, including destructive storms. Additionally, Tennessee is vulnerable to hurricanes, severe thunderstorms, and flooding.

Notably, the state hosts four active nuclear power plants alongside several inactive ones. While some view these facilities as benign, there is also a significant segment of residents who express concerns, as improper maintenance of nuclear power plants can pose safety risks.

9. Arkansas

Ranking 9th in our list of the worst states to live and work in is Arkansas. The state also tops our list of the 25 Most Dangerous States in USA in 2023. Beyond violent crimes, the Little Rock area grapples with an unusually elevated level of drug-related activities and arrests. Certain neighborhoods in the city have gained notoriety for their high concentration of drug dealers, rendering them places that people often feel uneasy visiting.

The southern region of the USA is renowned for its display of hospitality. Regrettably, Arkansas doesn’t consistently embrace it. When newcomers attempt to talk with locals, it’s not unusual to encounter aloofness, friendly chitchats, or even outright neglect when seeking assistance in retail establishments. Arkansans generally don’t have a reputation for their warmth and friendliness.

8. Florida

Florida ranks 8th in our list of the worst states to live and work in. One contributing factor to the unfriendliness of locals is their perception that the state doesn’t require additional residents. Florida already boasts a high population density with 353.4 people per square mile. This elevated population significantly impacts traffic conditions, resulting in frequent grievances from residents who find themselves inching along stagnant highway lines for hours. The situation is compounded by accidents and ongoing construction projects, leading to frustrating traffic experiences. In Miami, individuals spend an average of 69 hours per year stuck in traffic.

7. Indiana

The Indianapolis region finds itself in the lowest 5% when it comes to particle pollution and the bottom 20% for ozone levels. This air quality issue is primarily attributable to Indiana’s operation of 24 coal power plants, including the largest and most environmentally detrimental plant in the nation. Furthermore, Indiana ranks among the worst states concerning drug-related issues, earning relatively high marks for addiction prevalence but performing less effectively in terms of addiction treatment.

6. Missouri

Missouri’s median income falls approximately +$6000 below the national average, and a portion of this disparity can be attributed to the state’s lower-than-average minimum wage. Some companies have the guts to pay less than the state’s minimum wage, resulting in reduced earnings for individuals.

On the surface, the state’s sales tax appears reasonable, standing at 4.2%. However, when you factor in local sales taxes, it can surge to as high as 8.3%– a significant discrepancy, especially considering the state’s lower wage levels. This might lead to a perception that a substantial portion of income is being allocated towards taxes.

5. Alabama

Alabama ranks 5th in our list of the worst states to live and work in. If you enjoy consuming alcoholic beverages, it’s essential to check the restrictions when relocating to Alabama because it enforces relatively stringent alcohol regulations. In certain counties, alcohol sales are either prohibited altogether or limited to specific weekdays, excluding Sundays. Additionally, beverages with higher alcohol content, such as spirits, are exclusively available through state-operated liquor stores.

Additionally, due to its proximity to the Gulf Coast, Alabama faces year-round susceptibility to various natural disasters, including prevalent occurrences like flash floods, tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and hurricanes. During the spring, tornadoes are a frequent event, necessitating preparedness and the availability of storm shelters.