We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again:

We love New Jersey!

The reasons are endless, but one recently came to our attention. 

MoneyRates.com recently ranked New Jersey Number 1 in their recent study: 10 Best States to Raise a Family 2021.

Factors Examined in the Study

Parents in every state want to ensure their children are safe, happy, and receive an excellent education. Last year, with remote work and schooling taking place, many families reevaluated where they live. In addition to quality education, children also need access to high-speed internet and amenities to keep them active. 

To determine the 10 Best States to Raise a Family, MoneyRates.com examined the following nine factors in their study:

1. Academic performance

2. Availability of youth/student checking accounts

3. Overall affordability

4. College affordability

5. Crime safety

6. Access to daycare

7. Child Health

8. Kid-friendly neighborhood amenities

9. Broadband availability

New Jersey Ranked Number 1

Overall, New Jersey came in as the Number 1 state to raise a family in 2021. New Jersey scored a top ten sport for six out of nine categories. Even though it’s not as affordable as other states, the remaining categories pushed it to the top spot. 

Here’s a complete rundown of how New Jersey ranks:

• Overall Rank: 1

• Overall Affordability Rank: 42

• Academic Performance Rank: 3

• Access to Youth Checking Accounts Rank: 4

• College Affordability Rank: 46

• Safety from Violent Crime Rank: 5

• Availability of Daycare Rank: 8

• Child Health Rank: 4

• Neighborhood Amenities Rank: 11

• Broadband Connectivity Rank: 8

While not on this list, we think it’s also important to mention that New Jersey is also diverse. In fact, Jersey City is the most diverse city in the United States!

Top Ten States to Raise a Family

Of course, we’ll also be biased to New Jersey, but here’s the complete list of the top states to raise a family:

1. New Jersey

2. (tie) Massachusetts

3. (tie) Utah

4. Connecticut

5. New Hampshire

6. Wyoming

7. (tie) Flordia

8. (tie) Wisconsin

9. Ohio

10. New York

What do you love about living in New Jersey? Let us know in the comments!