Minnesota Named Third Best State to Have a Baby

A recent study by WalletHub has identified Minnesota and North Dakota as two of the top three states for having a baby, highlighting their favorable conditions for new parents. The analysis evaluated 31 factors, including healthcare accessibility, costs, and family-friendliness. WalletHub analyst Cassandra Happe emphasized that the best states not only minimize expenses but also provide excellent care for both mothers and newborns, ensuring a supportive environment for families long after childbirth. Massachusetts topped the list, followed closely by North Dakota and Minnesota. The study noted that Massachusetts boasts the lowest infant mortality rate in the nation and the highest quality neonatal hospitals. North Dakota, on the other hand, offers the lowest costs for conventional deliveries without complications, making it an attractive option for expectant parents. Minnesota also ranks favorably, with the second-lowest health insurance premiums in the U.S. at $337 per month and a strong presence of healthcare professionals, including nurse midwives and pediatricians. In addition to their high rankings for childbirth, these states also excel in WalletHub's study on the best states for raising a family. Iowa, South Dakota, and Wisconsin also made the list, ranking 11th, 13th, and 22nd, respectively. Conversely, South Carolina, Alabama, and Mississippi were identified as the least favorable states for having a baby, according to the study's findings.