Delaware has been ranked as the 21st best state in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, according to a recent report. The rankings are based on 71 metrics across eight broader categories, including fiscal stability, crime and corrections, education, health care, opportunity, economy, opportunity, and natural environment.
The First State earned its highest marks in fiscal stability, coming in fourth in the nation overall. It also ranked ninth in health care, with healthcare quality specifically designated as sixth in the country. Other top-ten rankings for Delaware included business environment (3rd), healthcare access (10th), and transportation (10th).
However, Delaware’s lowest score was in the natural environment category, where it ranked 43rd in the nation. Specifically, the state ranked 47th in pollution, producing almost four times more industrial toxins than the national average. Despite this, Delaware had below-average rates of drinking water violations.
In other areas, Delaware ranked poorly in employment (41st) and Pre-K to 12 education (42nd). These rankings provide a comprehensive look at the strengths and weaknesses of the state across various sectors.
Overall, Delaware’s ranking highlights its strengths in fiscal stability and health care, while also shedding light on areas that need improvement, such as the natural environment and education. The report serves as a valuable tool for policymakers and residents alike to better understand the state’s standing in comparison to others across the country.