Cost of living, job opportunities, education, safety, and overall quality of life all play a role when deciding which state to call home. Factors like weather, recreation, and cultural attractions also play a part in shaping where people ultimately settle.
A new study from WalletHub compared all 50 U.S. states across 51 key indicators of livability, ranging from housing costs and income growth to education quality, healthcare access, and public safety. The results reveal some clear leaders—and highlight how Florida measures up.
Top States to Live In
According to WalletHub’s 2025 rankings, the five best states to live in are:
Massachusetts
Idaho
New Jersey
Wisconsin
Minnesota
Florida ranked No. 6 overall, earning a total score of 58.51, placing it just behind Minnesota. The Sunshine State scored especially well in economy (11th) and quality of life (4th), while its affordability ranking (32nd) and housing costs kept it out of the top five.
Florida’s Strengths and Challenges
Florida continues to attract new residents from across the country, thanks in part to its warm climate, strong job growth, and diverse cultural and recreational opportunities. The state’s ranking in quality of life reflects its mix of outdoor activities, beaches, entertainment options, and access to healthcare.
However, housing affordability remains a major challenge. Florida ranked 47th in the nation for highest housing costs, placing it among the five most expensive states for housing. Despite this, Florida remains appealing to many because it has no state income tax and continues to experience steady economic growth.
Housing and Homeownership Trends
WalletHub’s study also highlighted significant differences in housing affordability and homeownership across the U.S.:
Lowest housing costs: Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas, Nebraska
Highest housing costs: Oregon, Florida, Nevada, Hawaii, California
Highest homeownership rates: West Virginia, Maine, Michigan, Vermont, New Hampshire
Lowest homeownership rates: Texas, Hawaii, Nevada, California, New York
With demand for housing in Florida continuing to climb, affordability is likely to remain a concern for prospective residents, especially in high-growth metro areas like Orlando, Tampa, and Miami.
Florida Remains a Top Choice
Despite challenges in housing costs, Florida’s overall ranking among the top 10 states to live in reinforces its appeal. The state’s strong economy, high quality of life, and year-round sunshine continue to draw newcomers, making it one of the most desirable relocation destinations in the country.