Mississippi has been ranked as one of the worst states to live in, according to the 2024 annual “Best States” ranking by U.S. News and World Report.
U.S. News’ team has meticulously compiled and analyzed thousands of government and publicly available data sources to create a comprehensive report. This report focuses on eight key categories, namely health care, education, economy, infrastructure, opportunity, fiscal stability, crime and corrections, and natural environment.
Mississippi, often referred to as the Magnolia State, currently holds the unenviable position of being ranked 48th out of 50 in overall standings. When it comes to the economy and healthcare, Mississippi takes the bottom spot, making it the worst in the nation. Additionally, the state ranks 48th in terms of infrastructure and 45th in fiscal stability.
California’s natural environment is ranked the highest among all factors, placing it at the 20th spot. However, when it comes to crime and corrections, the state falls to the 25th position. In terms of education and opportunity, California ranks at the 35th spot.
Mississippi was ranked second in the nation for affordability, just behind Arkansas. However, when it comes to economic opportunity, Mississippi ranked last among all states.
Mississippi, which ranked 48th last year, has shown significant improvements in various areas. In terms of crime and corrections, it has jumped up nine places, making it the state’s most notable improvement. Additionally, Mississippi has improved by six places in the education sector and five places in terms of fiscal security. However, it has fallen four places in the natural environment category, dropping from 16th place last year.
Only minor changes were observed in other categories, with improvements or declines limited to just one place.
