New Jersey Ranked #3 Best State to Live in, Says Wallethub 🥉🌟

Move over, haters, the Garden State just got a major bragging right. According to WalletHub’s 2025 “Best States to Live In” report, New Jersey has officially secured the #3 spot in the entire nation, trailing only behind Massachusetts (#1) and Idaho (#2).

WalletHub compared all 50 states across five key categories — affordability, economy, education & health, quality of life, and safety — and New Jersey’s strengths couldn’t be ignored.

Why New Jersey Made the Top 3

• 💰 Financial Strength – NJ boasts the third-highest median household income (over $101,000) and one of the lowest median debt levels in the U.S.

• ❤️ Health & Wellness – Ranked #2 for lowest premature death rate, #6 for lowest obesity rate, and #7 for longest life expectancy.

• 🚓 Safety Leader – Officially #1 in safety, thanks to low violent and property crime rates and having the most law enforcement officers per capita.

• 🍽 Low Poverty & Food Insecurity – Sixth-lowest poverty rate and 10th-lowest food insecurity in the country.

• 🌳 Quality of Life – From scenic shorelines to hiking trails, NJ offers a mix of urban energy and natural beauty.

The Reputation vs. Reality

Sure, Jersey drivers get a bad rap and property taxes make headlines — but this ranking shows there’s more to the story. With a strong economy, top-tier healthcare, and unmatched safety, living in New Jersey isn’t just survivable, it’s enviable.

Bottom Line

Love it or leave it, New Jersey isn’t just the Garden State — it’s one of America’s best states to call home. And now, the numbers back it up.