Some states’ education is top of the class while others have the best health care. But Massachusetts excels in both, according to new rankings from U.S. News and World Report.
The Best States rankings by U.S. News were based off how well states are performing for their citizens by analyzing 71 metrics across eight categories including health care, education, economy and public safety.
Massachusetts, which ranked the 10th best state overall, specifically got high marks for crime and correction, natural environment, economy, health care and education.
The last two areas are also the top two fields that employ the most people in Massachusetts, according to U.S. News. Another top industry is manufacturing, especially computer and electronic products.
“Massachusetts’ technology sector has flourished in recent years and is among the most concentrated in the nation,” U.S. News wrote about the state. “With a balance of historical destinations and picturesque beaches at Cape Cod, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, the tourism industry also is a major economic powerhouse.”
Massachusetts has also paved the way for other states when it comes to legislation.
The state led the way in universal health care coverage, was the first state to legalize gay marriage and the second to pass discrimination laws for individuals who identify as lesbian, gay or bisexual.
Here are the top 10 states, according to US News:
- Utah
- New Hampshire
- Nebraska
- Minnesota
- Idaho
- Iowa
- Vermont
- Washington
- Florida
- Massachusetts