Best and worst states of 2024: Where did Tennessee rank?

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — U.S. News and World Reports has released its Best States of 2024 list, which ranks how well each state serves its residents.

The list analyzes eight main factors such as economy, education, health care, infrastructure, public safety, natural environment, fiscal responsibility, and opportunity to determine which states are doing well — and ones that still have room for improvement.

According to the report, more weight was applied to some categories based on a survey of what matters most to the residents. For example, health care and education were weighed most heavily.

How did Tennessee rank?

Tennessee ranked 27th overall, placing it above big states like Texas, California, and Pennsylvania, but still a little more than halfway down the list.

The Volunteer State performed best in fiscal stability, taking the fifth spot, which measures the state’s ability to ensure the success of government-sponsored programs. The state’s long-term stability ranked highest, meaning that residents believe Tennessee honors promised financial obligations.

However, the state performed worst in public safety, where it ranked 42nd. In fact, the Tennessee General Assembly passed several new laws related to criminal offenses and public safety during its last session, with many taking effect on July 1, 2024 .

Tennessee also ranked 12th in economy; 21st for infrastructure; 22nd in opportunity; 31st in education; 34th in natural environment; and 42nd in healthcare.

Top 5 Best states of 2024:

These states ranked in the top of the nation, according to the report.

1. Utah
2. New Hampshire
3. Nebraska
4. Minnesota
5. Idaho

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Top 5 Worst states of 2024:

These states ranked in the bottom five of the nation, according to the report.

1. Louisiana
2. New Mexico
3. Mississippi
4. Arkansas
5. West Virginia

To see the full study, click here .

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