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A Proud Second Place
I may have a bone to pick with U.S. News. For the second year in a row, they’ve ranked New Hampshire as the second best state to live in. Don’t get me wrong, I’m proud of the recognition. But as someone who lives here and helps others find their homes here, I’d argue we’re number one.
According to U.S. News, states were evaluated based on a wide range of metrics: Crime & Corrections, Economy, Education, Fiscal Stability, Health Care, Infrastructure, Natural Environment, and Opportunity. New Hampshire scored especially high in Crime & Corrections (ranked #1) and Natural Environment (ranked #4).
Safety First: New Hampshire Leads the Way
Here are a few standout statistics:
-Only 149 out of every 100,000 residents are incarcerated, well below the national average of 306.
-Just 7 out of every 100,000 are juvenile incarcerations, compared to the national average of 41.
-Violent crime affects 107 out of every 100,000 residents, which is still much safer than the national average of 348.
Clearly, safety is a major plus here.
Breathing Easy in the Granite State
In terms of the environment, we’re in good company, New Hampshire ranked #4, just behind Hawaii, Maryland, and Massachusetts. We placed #11 in air quality, with only 66 unhealthy air quality days, compared to the national average of 143. When it comes to pollution, we’re nearly at the top, #2, trailing only Vermont.
Its About More Than Just Numbers
The article’s description of our state was spot-on. Although New Hampshire spans just 9,350 square miles, it offers so much: mountains, lakes, oceanfront, lively cities, and charming small towns. Everything is within reach. Whether you’re hiking in the White Mountains, relaxing by Lake Winnipesaukee, or dining in Portsmouth, New Hampshire truly has it all.
For me, it’s more than just statistics, it’s about the lifestyle. The seasons, the community, and the sense of belonging make New Hampshire feel like home. And if you ask me, it should’ve been #1.
