Best States in the Midwest 2026: 12 States Ranked
How do Midwestern states compare? All 12 ranked by composite score across economy, safety, health, education, and more.
Midwest states ranked
The Midwest includes 12 states with an average composite score of 62/100. South Dakota leads the region at 80.2 (A+ grade, #3 nationally), while Michigan trails at 45.0 (C, #37). The spread of 35.2 points within the region shows how different the states are despite sharing geography.
Average median income across the Midwest: $71,640. Unemployment: 3.3%. Cost of living: 92. Violent crime: 340/100K. These regional averages compare to national figures of $74,753, 3.8%, 97, and 350/100K.
| Rank | State | Score | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | South Dakota | 80.2 | A+ |
| #2 | Minnesota | 77.1 | A+ |
| #3 | North Dakota | 77.1 | A |
| #4 | Nebraska | 74.5 | A |
| #5 | Iowa | 68.7 | B+ |
| #6 | Wisconsin | 63.7 | B |
| #7 | Kansas | 59.5 | B |
| #8 | Illinois | 50.5 | C+ |
| #9 | Indiana | 49.6 | C+ |
| #10 | Ohio | 49.1 | C+ |
| #11 | Missouri | 48.7 | C+ |
| #12 | Michigan | 45.0 | C |
#1 in the Midwest: South Dakota
South Dakota leads the Midwest with a composite score of 80.2/100 and a A+ grade. The state's strongest categories are education (89.8) and affordability (84.5). Median income: $72,280. Unemployment: 2%. Violent crime: 330/100K.
#2 in the Midwest: Minnesota
Minnesota ranks #2 in the region at 77.1/100 (A+ grade). Strong in health (89.8) and education (87.8). Median income: $85,551. COL index: 98. The weakest category is outdoor access at 30.7.
#3 in the Midwest: North Dakota
North Dakota ranks #3 in the region at 77.1/100 (A grade). Strong in affordability (84.7) and education (81.6). Median income: $72,583. COL index: 89. The weakest category is environment at 38.5.
#4 in the Midwest: Nebraska
Nebraska ranks #4 in the region at 74.5/100 (A grade). Strong in education (83.7) and affordability (82.8). Median income: $73,423. COL index: 90. The weakest category is outdoor access at 22.0.
#5 in the Midwest: Iowa
Iowa ranks #5 in the region at 68.7/100 (B+ grade). Strong in affordability (85.0) and education (77.6). Median income: $72,429. COL index: 89. The weakest category is outdoor access at 22.4.
Midwestern strengths and trade-offs
The Midwest's calling card is affordability combined with stability. The average COL index is 92, homes run $279,250 at the median, and education scores average 69.2 — among the best of any region.
The challenge is growth. Average population growth across Midwestern states is 0.53%, and several states are losing people. Limited industry diversification in some areas and harsh winters contribute. That said, the states that are growing — typically those with strong metros — are doing so sustainably, without the affordability crises plaguing faster-growing regions.
The bottom of the region
Michigan (45.0), Missouri (48.7), Ohio (49.1) round out the bottom of the Midwest. Michigan's biggest challenges are outdoor access (17.8) and growth (25.0). But even the lowest-ranked Midwestern state has strengths: Michigan scores 75.7 in affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What is the best state in the Midwest?
South Dakota ranks #1 in the Midwest with a composite score of 80.2/100 and a A+ grade (nationally: #3).
Q:How many states are in the Midwest?
There are 12 states in the Midwest region.
Q:What is the average cost of living in the Midwest?
The average cost of living index across Midwestern states is 92 (national average: 97).
Q:Which Midwestern state has the strongest economy?
South Dakota leads the Midwest for economy with a score of 70.3/100.