Texas’ Livability Takes a Hit

Texas has taken a significant fall in the rankings of the best and worst states to live in, according to WalletHub’s 2025 report. The state has plummeted to the 38th spot, making it the 13th worst place to live in the U.S.

What Went Wrong for Texas?

WalletHub used 51 metrics to evaluate all 50 states, considering factors such as affordability, economy, education and health, quality of life, and safety. Texas struggled in four out of the five categories, with its economy and education and health rankings being particularly poor, coming in at 40th in both categories. This is surprising, given that a separate WalletHub study found Texas to have the 8th best economy in the nation.

Key Areas of Concern

Some of the key areas where Texas fell short include:

• Housing affordability
• Median debt per median earnings
• Income growth from 2019 to 2023
• High school graduation rates
• Access to public transportation

How Other States Fared

Massachusetts took the top spot as the best place to live, followed closely by Idaho, New Jersey, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. On the other hand, New Mexico was ranked as the worst state to live in 2025, with Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Alaska rounding out the bottom five.

A Glimmer of Hope for Texas

Despite its overall poor ranking, Texas did manage to secure a top-10 spot in one category: quality of life, coming in at 9th. This suggests that while the state may be struggling in other areas, it still has some redeeming qualities that make it an attractive place to live.

Considerations for Potential Residents

Before making any decisions about where to live, it’s essential to consider a range of factors beyond just a state’s overall ranking. These include the cost of living, job opportunities, quality of education, safety, and personal preferences such as attractions, recreational opportunities, and weather.

Conclusion

Texas’ decline in livability is a cause for concern, but it’s not the only factor to consider when deciding where to live. By weighing the pros and cons of each state and considering individual priorities, potential residents can make an informed decision about where to call home. While Texas may not be the best state to live in, it still has its strengths, and with careful consideration, it could still be a viable option for those looking to relocate.