1. Louisiana
Louisiana consistently ranks poorly in terms of education and healthcare, both of which are crucial for raising healthy, well-rounded kids. The state’s public schools are underfunded, and many children are falling behind in key academic areas. Add to that the high rates of child poverty and lack of access to quality healthcare, and it’s clear why Louisiana makes the list.
2. Tennessee
Tennessee’s education system has room for improvement, especially when it comes to literacy rates. The state also struggles with high rates of child poverty, which often results in families struggling to meet their children’s basic needs. With limited access to healthcare, it can be a difficult state to raise kids in.
3. New Mexico
While New Mexico offers stunning landscapes, it doesn’t fare well when it comes to raising children. With high crime rates and an education system that leaves many students behind, New Mexico’s children face challenges even before they reach adulthood. The state also has a high percentage of children living in poverty, which affects their opportunities for success.
4. Alabama
Alabama’s education system has room for improvement. Although the state has made some strides, it continues to rank poorly in national education rankings. Additionally, it has one of the highest rates of child hunger in the country, making it difficult for kids to thrive if their basic needs aren’t being met.
5. West Virginia
West Virginia struggles with poor health outcomes, which impacts the younger population significantly. High rates of obesity, limited access to quality healthcare, and a lack of extracurricular opportunities for kids contribute to making it a tough environment for raising children.
6. Arkansas
Arkansas suffers from high rates of childhood poverty and food insecurity, which are major concerns for families. With education standards lagging behind the national average and limited access to mental health services for children, it’s a state that can leave families feeling unsupported.
7. Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s healthcare system is not great, with the state ranked among the lowest for child well-being. Poor air quality and limited access to mental health care make it harder for kids to grow up in a healthy environment. Additionally, the state’s education system faces funding issues that leave students at a disadvantage.
8. Georgia
Georgia’s education system has long been underfunded, and public schools often struggle with large class sizes and outdated materials. The state also has a high rate of child hunger and inadequate access to affordable healthcare. Families in Georgia face these obstacles while trying to build a future for their children, making it one of the more difficult states to raise kids in 2025.
9. South Carolina
South Carolina has made some progress in recent years, but it still struggles with education quality and child welfare. The state’s public schools are often overcrowded, and its healthcare system doesn’t provide sufficient care for kids, particularly in rural areas. This makes it a tough place for families looking for a stable environment for their children.
10. Kentucky
Kentucky faces challenges in health and education, with the state’s public schools consistently ranking low nationally. Childhood obesity is also a big issue, and many children lack access to physical and mental health services. Poverty is widespread, which affects children’s opportunities for success.
11. Mississippi
Mississippi has long been one of the lowest-ranking states for education. The schools here struggle with overcrowding, low test scores, and underpaid teachers. Additionally, the state has one of the highest child poverty rates in the nation, which directly impacts children’s well-being, from their nutrition to their overall development.
12. Nevada
While Nevada’s tourism economy thrives, families in the state face challenges. Its public schools consistently rank poorly in comparison to other states, and child poverty is an ongoing problem. Healthcare access is limited, and the state struggles with mental health care options for children.
13. Arizona
In Arizona, budget cuts have hurt both education and healthcare systems, making it harder for children to get a good education and the medical care they need. Additionally, the state’s high crime rates and relatively high cost of living make it a tough place for families to thrive.
14. Michigan
Michigan’s public education system struggles with large class sizes and low test scores. On top of that, the state faces a high level of child poverty and a lack of affordable housing. Although there are areas in Michigan that offer better conditions, the state as a whole doesn’t provide the kind of support families need to thrive.
