These are the 5 best states to live in America in 2026 — Is your state on the list?

Idaho has been named the top state for living in America in 2026, according to a new WalletHub ranking of all 50 states. The Gem State's high ranking is driven by its low taxes, robust income growth, homeownership rate and safety record. The state boasts one of the lowest median real estate tax rates at just 0.5%, and the eighth-highest homeownership rate. Idaho's overall tax rates are also among the lowest, and it has the highest median household income growth.

New Jersey follows closely behind in second place, thanks to its high median household income and relatively low debt levels. The Garden State has the third-highest median household income at nearly $104,000, and residents have the second-lowest median debt, equivalent to about 27% of annual income. New Jersey also ranks fifth in terms of poverty and food insecurity rates.

Wisconsin rounds out the top three, with affordable housing, strong education and employment indicators leading to its high ranking. The state has the ninth-highest housing affordability, making homeownership relatively accessible. Wisconsin also performs well in healthcare, with the 15th-lowest premature death rate and the ninth-highest rate of health insurance coverage.

The state's education system is another standout, ranking sixth for school-system quality and boasting the highest high-school graduation rate at over 96%.