10 of the Worst States for Millennials, According to a New Study
Overall, millennials are better educated, which helps with jobs and financial stability. However, not all millennials have the same experience. Some states really help us thrive, while others make things extra challenging. A recent study pulled back the curtain on states’ quality of life, affordability, education, and health and how well these factors cater to millennials.
As a millennial myself, I put a lot of importance on the place I live. Being part of a culture and community you like is an important factor in your well-being. Even though millennials won’t be the largest group for much longer, we’re still a powerhouse in shaping American culture and spending habits, with over 70 million strong.
So, if you’re a millennial considering living in one of these lowest-ranked states, take a good look at what you’re signing up for. You might want to pick a different place to call home!
Mississippi
According to a recent study, Mississippi is ranked the worst state for millennials—and you can’t turn a blind eye to the reasons why. It has the lowest average earnings for our generation, the highest unemployment rate, and one of the worst health insurance coverage stats. Yikes.
If you’re already there or weighing your options, you’d probably be better off in a state with a stronger economy and better opportunities. Trust me, Mississippi doesn’t exactly scream millennial-friendly, with these stats dragging it down.
West Virginia
If you’re chasing the best quality of life, West Virginia might not be your best bet. It’s ranked as the second worst state for millennials and dead last for quality of life. With low average earnings, sky-high unemployment, and the highest depression rates among millennials, it’s not exactly a haven for our generation.
Even with some of the cheapest housing in the country, millennials are steering clear because of the struggling job market. It’s no surprise West Virginia has one of the smallest millennial populations—it’s just not worth the trade-offs.
New Mexico
Besides being stuck in a major drought, the job market here isn’t much better. With the fourth-highest millennial unemployment rate and some of the lowest earnings in the country, it’s not exactly full of opportunity. Some even joke that even though New Mexico is called the Land of Enchantment, it’s more like the Land of Disappointment for millennials.
And if you’re thinking of moving without a job, good luck—it’s rough. Even with a job, wages are the lowest in the Western U.S. Plus, the nightlife is pretty much non-existent.
Arkansas
Sure, Arkansas has affordable housing and plenty of natural beauty, but the downsides are hard to ignore. The state ranks second to last for millennial earnings, and the job market is slim, especially if you’re in tech.
Arkansas consistently lands at the bottom for education, and poverty levels are a daily struggle for many. Add in limited medical facilities, one of the highest violent crime rates in the U.S., and an average of 40 tornadoes a year—it’s a tough sell, no matter how tempting the low mortgage rates are.
Louisiana
Louisiana may lure you with its affordable living and the savory smell of Cajun jambalaya, but the reality is different. Nearly one in five locals live in poverty, and for our generation, it’s not much better. The state has the fifth-highest millennial unemployment rate, making finding a job a real challenge.
Even if you do find work, many jobs are in risky industries like oil, gas, and chemical plants. Louisiana also has one of the lowest life expectancies in the U.S. It’s clear that the state has some serious issues to face.
Nevada
If you’re moving to Nevada, especially Las Vegas, you’ll have no shortage of food and entertainment. However, when it comes to jobs, the Silver State could do better. It has the fifth-lowest millennial homeownership rate, a 5.6% unemployment rate (the second highest in the country), and one of the lowest percentages of college grads.
Healthcare in Nevada is also among the worst in the U.S. On the bright side, it has the fourth-lowest percentage of millennials with depression.
South Carolina
South Carolina offers miles of beaches, historic sites, and great seafood, but you might want to think twice as a millennial. A recent study ranked it last for civic engagement, which says a lot about the state’s overall vibe.
It’s also high on the list for crime, both property and violence. With relatively high income and sales taxes compared to neighboring states, the southern charm of the state may not be enough to outweigh these big downsides.
Alaska
Despite ranking as one of the worst states for millennials, Alaska actually has the second-highest percentage of millennials, just behind D.C. Maybe it’s the adventure of rugged nature or the love for cold weather that draws them in.
However, living in Alaska comes with a steep price. The cost of living is high, goods are expensive, and fresh produce is hard to find. With the fourth-highest housing costs and third-highest millennial unemployment, Alaska’s job market is limited, mostly revolving around resource industries like fishing, mining, and oil drilling.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma may offer a low cost of living and beautiful outdoors, but it also has its downsides. With a 15.9% poverty rate and rising crime, it’s not completely shocking why it ranks as one of the worst states for millennials.
While living expenses are low, high state and local taxes—like a 4.5% sales tax on everything, including groceries—can eat away at your savings. The state also has the second-lowest percentage of millennials with health insurance. Plus, if you’re not religious, you might find the strong local sentiments a bit overwhelming.
Kentucky
Kentucky has the fifth-highest percentage of millennials with depression, nearly one in four people. Poverty and underfunded schools might be part of the problem, not to mention the state’s obesity rates.
Racism is also a major issue here, and it’s disheartening to hear racist jokes or see the Confederate flag flying proudly. The job market is tough, with low wages and a 4.9% unemployment rate. And with frequent tornadoes and flooding, Kentucky has its share of natural challenges, too.
Source: WalletHub
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