All 50 U.S. states ranked using the published 100-point framework. Scores combine legal protections with economic, health, family and safety measures.
The score combines state laws, policies and measurable outcomes across 11 domains. It is not a general quality-of-life ranking. Small differences in rank matter less than larger score gaps and recurring higher or lower domain scores.
A state can rank near the top by performing consistently well across reproductive autonomy, economic equality, childcare, healthcare, workplace protections, paid leave, safety and civil rights. Another state may be exceptionally strong in one area but rank lower because it scores substantially lower in other domains.
The table therefore shows each state's highest- and lowest-scoring domains alongside the overall score. Use those domain results to understand why a state ranks where it does.
Use ranks as a guide, not a precision claim. A one- or two-place difference between states with similar scores may not be meaningful. Larger score gaps and recurring higher or lower domain scores are more informative.
Choose a state below, or select its row in the national ranking, to see all 11 domain scores and how they contribute to the total.
Small differences in rank should not be treated as statistically meaningful. The index is best read in tiers and patterns, especially among states with similar scores.
States do not move up by adopting one symbolic policy. The largest gains come from improving higher-weight domains and making sure legal protections translate into usable services and measurable outcomes.
Strengthen both legal rights and practical access.
Reduce persistent earnings gaps and barriers to economic independence.
Address the price of care and whether a care slot actually exists.
Improve coverage, provider access and outcomes that remain unequal.
Make protections broad enough to cover workers who are often left out.
Make leave available and financially usable.
Reduce risk and improve the state's response when violence occurs.
Close gaps in who state nondiscrimination laws protect and where they apply.
The Methodology page lists the measures used in all 11 domains, including housing independence, political voice and female-specific basic-needs equity.
The published ranking uses the default methodology. Use the personalized tool to change the relative importance of any domain or exclude states that do not meet your must-haves.