10 Best States to Make a Living

Introduction

Hi there! My name is Emily Johnson and I have spent the last few years researching and exploring different states to find the best ones to make a living in. I have talked to experts, read studies, and even lived in a few of these states myself. In this article, I am going to share with you my top 10 picks and explain why they are great places to live and work.

Top Statistics and Interesting Information

• According to a study by MoneyRates, the best state to make a living in 2021 is Washington.
• Other states in the top 10 include Texas, Illinois, Colorado, Utah, Minnesota, Michigan, Delaware, Oregon, and Idaho.
• The study took into account factors such as cost of living, job opportunities, workplace safety, and state taxes.
• Washington has no state income tax and a high minimum wage of $13.69 per hour.
• Utah has a low unemployment rate of 3.1% and a growing tech industry.

10 Best States to Make a Living

1. Washington

   Washington is a great state for job seekers because of its strong economy and low unemployment rate. The tech industry is booming in Seattle and the state has no state income tax. The cost of living is higher than some of the other states on this list, but the high wages make up for it.

   Personal Experience: I lived in Seattle for a year and loved it. I found a job in my field quickly and was able to save money despite the higher cost of living. Plus, the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest is unbeatable.

2. Texas

   Texas has a strong job market with a low cost of living. The state also has no state income tax and a growing tech industry. Major cities like Austin and Houston offer a good quality of life with plenty of entertainment options.

   Personal Experience: I have visited Texas several times and have always been impressed with the hospitality and friendliness of the people. Plus, the food is amazing!

3. Illinois

   Illinois has a diverse economy with strong industries in finance, healthcare, and technology. The state also has a high minimum wage and a low unemployment rate. Chicago offers a great urban experience with a lower cost of living than other major cities.

   Personal Experience: I have family in Chicago and have always enjoyed visiting. The city has a lot to offer in terms of culture and entertainment.

4. Colorado

   Colorado is a great state for those who love the outdoors. The state has a strong economy and a low unemployment rate. Denver and Boulder offer a great urban experience with plenty of outdoor recreational activities nearby.

   Personal Experience: I went on a road trip through Colorado and was blown away by the natural beauty of the state. I could see myself living there someday.

5. Utah

   Utah has a strong job market with a low unemployment rate. The state is also home to a growing tech industry. Salt Lake City offers a good quality of life with plenty of outdoor recreational activities nearby.

   Personal Experience: I visited Salt Lake City for a conference and was impressed with the city’s cleanliness and safety. Plus, the mountains are breathtaking.

6. Minnesota

   Minnesota has a strong economy and a low unemployment rate. The state is home to major companies like Target and Best Buy. Minneapolis offers a great urban experience with a lower cost of living than other major cities.

   Personal Experience: I have family in Minnesota and have always enjoyed visiting. The state has a lot to offer in terms of culture and entertainment.

7. Michigan

   Michigan has a strong manufacturing industry and a low unemployment rate. The state is home to major automakers like Ford and General Motors. Detroit is undergoing a revitalization and offers a great urban experience at an affordable cost.

   Personal Experience: I visited Detroit and was impressed with the city’s architecture and history. I also had some of the best pizza of my life there.

8. Delaware

   Delaware has a strong finance industry and a low unemployment rate. The state also has no state sales tax. Wilmington offers a good quality of life with a lower cost of living than other major cities.

   Personal Experience: I drove through Delaware on a road trip and was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The beaches were beautiful and the state was easy to navigate.

9. Oregon

   Oregon has a strong tech industry and a low unemployment rate. The state is also known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. Portland offers a great urban experience with a lower cost of living than other major cities.

   Personal Experience: I visited Portland for a weekend and fell in love with the city’s quirkiness and food scene. I also went on a hike in the Columbia River Gorge and it was one of the most beautiful places I have ever been.

10. Idaho

    Idaho has a low cost of living and a growing tech industry. The state is also known for its outdoor recreational activities. Boise offers a good quality of life with a lower cost of living than other major cities.

    Personal Experience: I have never been to Idaho, but I have heard great things about Boise from friends who have visited. It is definitely on my list of places to check out.

FAQs

What factors were considered in the study?

The study took into account factors such as cost of living, job opportunities, workplace safety, and state taxes.

What state has the highest minimum wage?

Washington has the highest minimum wage at $13.69 per hour.

What state has the lowest unemployment rate?

Utah has the lowest unemployment rate at 3.1%.

What state has no state income tax?

Washington and Texas have no state income tax.