New Jersey Climbs to No. 14 in U.S. News & World Report Rankings
In a recent announcement by U.S. News & World Report, New Jersey has made significant strides in its ranking among the 50 states in the nation. The Garden State has climbed five spots from last year to land at a respectable No. 14 in the Best States rankings for 2024.
The rankings are based on various categories including health care, education, economy, infrastructure, opportunity, fiscal stability, crime & corrections, and natural environment. This year, Utah claimed the top spot, followed by New Hampshire, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Idaho in the top five. On the other end of the spectrum, Louisiana, New Mexico, Mississippi, Arkansas, and West Virginia rounded out the bottom five.
New Jersey’s report card showcases strengths in education, health care, and crime and corrections, where it ranked No. 4 in each category. However, the state faces challenges in areas such as opportunity, fiscal stability, and the natural environment, where it ranked lower on the list.
The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce responded to the rankings, acknowledging the positive aspects but also highlighting concerns about the state’s fiscal stability. Chamber President and CEO Tom Bracken raised concerns about Governor Phil Murphy’s proposed corporate transit fee, warning that it could deter future investments and hinder economic growth in the long run.
In addition to the state rankings, U.S. News also released its list of the best outpatient surgical centers in the country, with nearly 20 New Jersey health care providers making the cut. This recognition further highlights the state’s commitment to providing quality healthcare services to its residents.
Overall, New Jersey’s improved ranking in the Best States list is a testament to the state’s ongoing efforts to address key issues and improve the overall quality of life for its residents. As the state continues to focus on areas of improvement, it is poised to climb even higher in future rankings.