10 of the Most Charitable States in the U.S., According to a New Study
Wondering which states are the most charitable? Some focus on money, others on volunteering, and a few do both. Find out if your state made the cut!
It’s that time of year when we all feel a little extra generous. Even amongst all the bad news you see, I always like to think that most Americans have a big heart. The U.S. actually ranks pretty high globally when it comes to giving back!
Donating to local charities not only helps others but also brings communities closer together. Some states really shine, though, sharing what they have to make a difference. A recent study ranked states based on volunteer rates, donations, and food banks per capita.
Wondering which states are the most charitable? Some focus on money, others on volunteering, and a few do both. Find out if your state made the cut!
Wyoming
You’d think a state as vast and wild as Wyoming is all for rugged individualism. But no. Wyoming residents are some of the most charitable people you’ll ever meet. About 39% of residents volunteer, clocking in an impressive 33 hours per year—the second-most in the nation. Plus, locals are big on giving, donating nearly 4% of their income to charity, ranking them second nationwide.
From food banks to shelters, Wyoming makes sure no one is left behind. With 89% of its homeless population sheltered and over 40% of residents fundraising for good causes, the spirit of generosity here is simply contagious!
Utah
Have you ever wondered what makes Utah so cheerful? It’s not just the smiles or friendly waves—it’s the way neighbors truly look out for each other. About 41% of Utahans volunteer, logging an incredible 38 hours per year, the most in the country. Families here are generous, too, donating 3.6% of their income on average, making Utah the second most charitable state.
But the kindness doesn’t stop there. Nearly 62% of Utah’s residents lend a hand to neighbors, whether it’s house sitting, babysitting, or sharing tools. It’s a culture of care you can’t miss!
Minnesota
You’ve heard of “Minnesota nice,” right? Turns out, it’s more than just a saying. About 62% of Minnesotans have helped a neighbor in the past year, and over 35% volunteer regularly, putting in an impressive 24 hours annually on average. No wonder Minnesota ranks as the third-most charitable state!
It doesn’t stop with giving time and effort. Minnesotans donate over $4 billion a year to charity and would lend nearly $300 to a neighbor in need—talk about going above and beyond for their community!
Maine
If you’ve ever been to Maine, you know it’s full of hardworking folks with big hearts. Neighbors here don’t just wave hello—they step up when it matters. From food drives to helping rebuild after a fire, Mainers show their commitment to one another every day.
While Maine donates a smaller percentage of income, it makes a huge impact in other ways. With the fourth-highest volunteer rate and the fifth-most charities per capita, the state proves that actions speak louder than words.
Delaware
Delaware is a small state that gives big. If you ask someone in Delaware about charities, get ready for a long list! From the Delaware Food Bank tackling food insecurity to Delaware Greenways promoting trails, there’s no shortage of ways to give back. Love animals? You can support efforts to end pet neglect and abandonment. Whether it’s fighting hunger with the Harry K Foundation or preserving nature, there’s a cause for everyone here.
The First State is going strong with its Do More 24 event—a 24-hour donation drive that’s raised over $7 million for local nonprofits. This year, more than 500 organizations will benefit, proving every little bit helps!
Maryland
In Maryland, no matter your background, giving back is something everyone has in common. The state leads the way with the highest percentage of people donating money, and there are 31,800 nonprofit organizations working to make a difference. That’s a lot of people dedicated to making the world better!
The Maryland Charity Campaign makes it easy for state employees to give, whether through payroll deductions or other methods. Donations help support vital causes, from feeding the hungry to funding cancer research and caring for veterans.
Oregon
Kindness isn’t just a rumor here in Oregon—it’s something you can see in action. Whether through community events or GoFundMe, Oregonians are quick to lend a hand. There are campaigns to help Washington County Deputy Charles Dozé, LoRell’s Chicken Shack owner, or a nurse battling cancer. They raised thousands because the people here care.
Locals have all seen the way the community comes together in hard times. It’s a reminder that no matter where we are, generosity makes a real difference. No wonder it’s the seventh-most charitable state.
Colorado
Beyond the epic ski slopes and delicious green chili, there’s a real sense of community in Colorado. People here truly care. This state has one of the lowest rates of food insecurity – a testament to their generosity!
If you’re wondering how to help, Colorado Gives Day is the perfect way to start. A 24-hour online giving event, it supports over 4,000 nonprofits. Whether it’s scholarships through Seeds of Hope or supporting local charities through the Anschutz Family Foundation, Coloradans prove that generosity is at the heart of the state.
Pennsylvania
About 12% of Pennsylvanians live below the poverty line, struggling with housing, utilities, and nutritious food. If you’re asking, “How can I help?” you’re in luck—Pennsylvania has over 13,000 registered charities with plenty of ways to make a difference.
Pennsylvanians are known for their hardworking, compassionate spirit, always ready to lend a hand. You can join them by supporting nonprofits like Animal Resource Center, Aaron’s Acres, Helping Harvest, or Safe Harbor of Chester County. Each one tackles social issues, from hunger to community care, making it easy for you to make a real impact.
Nebraska
You don’t have to be Warren Buffett to make a difference in Nebraska, but he sure sets the bar high! Three of the state’s top 10 grantmakers, including The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, account for 17% of all grant dollars awarded to Nebraska nonprofits. That’s some big giving!
But Nebraskans know generosity isn’t just about money. Whether it’s house-sitting, babysitting, or lending a hand, informal helping is the norm here. Even Nebraska’s youth get involved, with over 70% of students volunteering and feeling connected to their communities.
Source: WalletHub
Read more: 10 of the Most Caring Cities in the U.S., According to a New Study
