WASHINGTON — Washington state was placed within the Top 10 Best States in a ranking by U.S. News using thousands of data points to measure how well states are performing for their citizens.
According to U.S. News, the rankings take into account a state’s economy; its roads, bridges, internet, and other infrastructure; its public safety; its natural environment; the fiscal stability of state government; healthcare; education; and the opportunity a state affords its residents. U.S. News said more weight was accorded to some categories than others, based on a survey of what matters most to people.
Washington ranked eighth best state overall with each sub category ranking in the top 40.
- Infrastructure: 7th
- Health Care: 10th
- Natural Environment: 11th
- Education: 13th
- Fiscal Stability: 14th
- Economy: 14th
- Opportunity: 37th
- Crime & Corrections: 39th
Utah came in the top overall spot with New Hampshire at number two and Nebraska at number three.
