New England State Once Again Ranked #1 for Raising a Family

So, your job went remote during the pandemic, and now you’ve got the freedom to live anywhere. Ah, freedom! But with more people opting for flexibility, deciding where to move can feel like a big ol’ game of “choose your own adventure.”

One of the biggest factors that people—especially parents—consider when relocating is the quality of the school system. As a realtor, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to find a place with great schools for the kiddos.

Well, according to WalletHub’s 2025 study, Massachusetts still holds onto the crown as the best state to raise a family and it turns out that the ideal state isn’t just about having a solid education system (though that’s definitely key). Affordability, safety, job opportunities, and healthcare are all factors that weigh heavily when parents are deciding where to plant their roots.

Massachusetts ranks #1 for a reason—WalletHub’s study showed great job prospects, a safe environment for families, and solid schools. Sure, housing and childcare can be on the pricier side, but high-paying jobs oftentimes tend to balance out those costs. So, if you're looking for a good spot to settle in with the family and maybe even have some extra dough in your pocket, Massachusetts is making it happen.

Still on the fence about Massachusetts? Well, there’s this hilarious video by Norwegian comedy duo Ylvis (yes, the same ones who gave us "What Does the Fox Say?"). It’s a good laugh, though I wouldn’t base your decision entirely on it.

And hey, if you’re eyeing New England, don’t stress. Four out of six states in the region made it into the top 10 for family-friendly places to live. So, you’ve got options. Click here for the full list.