WA is one of the states with the highest quality of life, CNBC says. Here’s where it ranks
Washingtonians get to enjoy some especially high-quality life, according to a new CNBC study.
As part of its annual ranking of the best states for businesses, CNBC ranked each state by the quality of life that it offers its residents.
According to the rankings, the Evergreen State has the fifth-highest quality of life in the U.S. Washington earned 230 out of a possible 325 points in the category, placing one spot ahead of Oregon and just behind Minnesota.
High minimum wage, worker protections and good air quality
In particular, Washington earned high marks for its inclusiveness, as well as its worker and voting rights protections. CNBC noted that its minimum wage, set at $16.28 an hour, is the second-highest in the country. Washington also earned high marks for its paid sick leave laws, which require employers to provide an hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours that an employee works, and its robust workplace safety policies.
Other areas Washington scored highly in were its environment, air and water quality, and its protections against discrimination.
A “child-care crisis”
On the flip side, Washington’s score was hurt by its crime rate and lack of childcare. CNBC noted that the state is in a “child-care crisis.” According to a 2022 report from the Washington State Department of Commerce, 50% of parents surveyed who had looked for childcare options couldn’t find any openings available near where they live or work.
CNBC’s analysis found that a couple earning the state’s median income would have to spend 15% of their income on childcare.
Vermont, Maine and New Jersey round out top five
Washington fell ten points short of Minnesota for fourth place, while New Jersey took third place with 248 points from a possible 325. Maine took second place and Vermont had the highest quality of life, according to the rankings.
At the other end of the rankings, Texas took last place, followed by Indiana and Alabama.
This story was originally published July 15, 2024 at 1:19 PM.