Utah gets criticized a lot for being “too religious” or “too critical,” but despite its criticism, Utah is the number one place to live in the United States.
Each place has its pros and cons, advantages and disadvantages, but Utah definitely has more advantages than disadvantages and ranks #1 among the 50 states. Very cool! We should celebrate!
So how was the ranking done? US News, a global report, compiled the list of criteria and calculated the scores. This is what the rankings scorecard looks like:
Utah was ranked #1 in 2 categories and overall. Excellent! These are not weak categories either. PLUS, we were in the top 20 in 7 of the 8 categories. That is an incredible feat.
Here’s how all of Utah’s rankings shook out:
Crime and Corrections #15 This category is based on crime rate and property crime rates. We were 20th in crime rate and 7th in prison results. Therefore, we should congratulate our state law enforcement agencies for doing a great job in reducing tension and positive prison outcomes. Thank you, THANK YOU to all who protect and serve! ♥
Economy #1 We killed it in this category! Most of us wonder how we can afford to live here, but with a great business environment, there is more growth than ANY OTHER STATE. We also have the best employment rate of all 50 states. The overall Best States ranking takes into account each state’s business environment, job market and overall economic growth.
Education #5 This category covered preschool and secondary school, as well as higher education. Even though the federal government steps in with the motto “No Child Left Behind,” most states leave it up to local school boards. If you’re frustrated with anything that’s happening with schools in your area, take action and put that on your list of things to ask your political leaders and those running for office. We have to stop complaining and start acting.
Fiscal stability #1 This has to do with effective state administration and the fiscal health of long- and short-term objectives. You have the power to shape your state. Make suggestions and ask questions of your leaders. Emails can do wonders.
Health care #7 This is a big problem. We receive this ranking based on the quality, access, and positive public health outcomes of our healthcare system.
Infrastructure #4 US News evaluated the quality of life of each state’s residents based on these key factors: the state’s use of renewable energy, the quality of its roads and bridges, and its residents’ access to high-speed Internet. Minnesota came in first in this category.
Natural Environment #46 This is where we took a nosedive. But we knew we would. Air quality and pollution need our attention as soon as possible. We need to remember this issue when it comes time to vote for new leadership. The Utah caucuses are March 5.
Opportunity #20 It’s not as bad as the Natural Environment, but it’s still something to think about and correct when it comes time to vote. This category is about fairness and equality. Pay gaps still exist within exactly the same positions/titles/production between men and women.
Utah is an amazing place to live. Its diverse beauty is incomparable. It is clean and safe and if we look for the positive in life, we will find more.
Scorecard of final rankings:
For more details about this ranking, you can check: https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/rankings
Aaronee LOVES the country lifestyle. She has a great little farm with alpacas, goats, dogs, cats and chickens! So yeah, some… things in her boots. 😉 Aaronee’s playlist has everything from Reba, Brooks and Dunn, Rascal Flatts and Garth, Miranda Lambert, Laney Wilson, Kane Brown and Morgan Wallen. She loves them all. ♥ Get her some chips and dip or tater tots and a root beer soda and she’ll be ready. She loves to chat on social media, so be sure to visit her on the Cat Country Utah Facebook page.
Gallery: St George, Utah, shines after record rain and snowfall
St George and its surroundings show off stunning views
Gallery Credit: Aaronee
Gallery: Cedar City, Utah, shines after record rain and snowfall
Cedar City, Utah and the surrounding area are absolutely beautiful this time of year
Gallery Credit: Aaronee
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