Minnesota Just Ranked For Quality of Life in the U.S. (Here’s Why)
About this video
Minnesota was ranked #1 for quality of life in the U.S., despite not finishing first in a single individual category. Here’s how strong employment, healthcare, community connection, affordability, and overall consistency pushed Minnesota to the top, plus where the state falls short.
Key takeaways
- Minnesota ranked first for quality of life in the State of the States report (the State of the Nation Project), which weighs 31 measures of work, health, civic and social life equally. Its average rank was 13.9, ahead of New Hampshire (14.6) and Iowa (15.9).
- Minnesota didn't win any single category; it ranked near the top in almost all of them. U.S. News, using different methods, ranked Minnesota third.
- Work drove the result: Minnesota ranked third for adults aged 25 to 54 who are working or looking for work, and third for the share with jobs.
- The job base is spread across industries: 18 Fortune 500 headquarters, led by UnitedHealth Group, Target, Best Buy, 3M, U.S. Bank and General Mills, plus Mayo Clinic in Rochester.
- Minnesota ranked fourth for social capital, volunteerism and low social isolation, and eighth for life expectancy.
- Weak spots in the report: youth depression (43rd of 51), environment (32nd) and greenhouse gas emissions (38th).
- Costs: as stated in the video, the statewide median sale price in July was $375,000 and the Twin Cities about $408,000, both under the national median. State income tax rates run from 5.35% to 9.85%, one of the highest top rates; clothing, groceries and prescriptions aren't subject to sales tax.
Questions this video answers
Which state has the best quality of life?
Minnesota ranked first in the State of the States report, which scores 31 measures equally. It didn't win any single category but placed near the top in almost all of them.
How high are Minnesota's income taxes?
Minnesota has four income tax brackets, from 5.35% to 9.85%. The top rate is one of the highest in the country, though it applies only to the top bracket.
Read more: Twin Cities market report · Communities
Notes written by Huerkamp Home Group from this video. Figures are as stated in the video on September 29, 2026; check the current numbers in our market reports.
