What?! You heard right! For the second year in a row, Utah has taken the top spot as the number one best state in the United States according to the U.S. News & World Report's 2023 Best States rankings.
The rankings were based on factors such as health care, education, economy, infrastructure, public safety, and the natural environment. Utah has consistently scored well in many of these categories, particularly in education and economy. The state boasts a high high school graduation rate and a low unemployment rate, along with a strong tech industry. Utah is also known for its stunning natural landscapes, with five national parks and several other outdoor recreational areas.
Here are some examples of how Utah has excelled in the categories mentioned:
- Education: Utah is known for its high-quality education system. According to the U.S. News & World Report's rankings, Utah has the fourth-highest high school graduation rate in the country, with 89.7% of students graduating on time. The state also has a strong higher education system, with several well-regarded universities and colleges, including the University of Utah and Brigham Young University.
- Economy: Utah has a thriving economy, driven in part by its strong tech industry. The state is home to several major tech companies, including Adobe, eBay, and Intel, and has a growing startup scene. Utah's low tax rates and business-friendly policies have also helped to attract new businesses to the state.
- Natural Environment: Utah is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including five national parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. The state also has several other outdoor recreational areas, such as the Great Salt Lake and the Uinta Mountains. Utah's commitment to preserving its natural resources has helped to attract tourists and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.
- Public Safety: Utah is consistently ranked as one of the safest states in the country. The state has a low crime rate and a well-trained police force. Utah also has a strong emergency response system, with well-equipped fire departments and paramedics.
- Infrastructure: Utah has invested heavily in its infrastructure in recent years, particularly in transportation. The state has several major highways and an expanding public transportation system, including light rail and buses. Utah has also invested in renewable energy infrastructure, such as wind and solar power, to help reduce its carbon footprint. While Utah has excelled in many of these categories, there is still room for improvement in areas such as air quality and affordability. Despite these challenges, Utah's commitment to maintaining a high quality of life for its residents has helped it to become, reportedly, and for the second year running, the best state in the country.