Vermont has been recognized as the state with the highest quality of life by CNBC for the fifth consecutive year, highlighting its inclusive laws, low crime rate, and protections for reproductive rights.
Vermont has once again been named the best state for quality of life by CNBC, maintaining its position for the fifth year running. The announcement, made on Monday, placed Vermont at the top of a list that also includes Maine, New Jersey, Minnesota, Connecticut, Hawaii, North Dakota, Massachusetts, Nebraska, and Virginia among the top ten states with high living standards.
The Green Mountain state received an impressive A+ rating, earning a score of 228 out of a possible 265 points for its living standards. Researchers pointed to Vermont’s strong performance in several key areas, including inclusiveness, health, air quality, low crime rates, and reproductive rights, as significant factors contributing to its top ranking.
CNBC highlighted Vermont’s inclusive and welcoming state laws, noting that they provide broad protections against discrimination of all kinds. The state has been a leader in reproductive rights, becoming the first in the nation to enshrine these rights in its constitution in 2022.
The report identified no significant weaknesses in Vermont’s rankings related to quality of life issues. It praised the state’s voting process, which offers 45 days of early voting both in person and by mail, ensuring smooth electoral participation.
While Vermont excelled in quality of life metrics, CNBC’s annual project—which also evaluates states for their business environment—found the state lagging in infrastructure and access to capital. Despite these business challenges, Vermont boasts a low unemployment rate of 2.6 percent, with a population nearing 648,493 residents.
The state’s economic profile includes a top corporate tax rate of 8.5 percent and a top individual income tax rate of 8.75 percent, figures relevant for residents and businesses considering Vermont as a place to live and work.
According to The Hill, Vermont’s consistent high rankings in quality of life are a testament to its commitment to creating an inclusive, safe, and healthy environment for its residents.