The Best US State To Live In For 2026 Isn't California Or Florida

California and Florida have year-round summer vibes and gorgeous coastlines to offer. Without a doubt, these two states attract individuals looking to permanently chase the sun and keep their toes in the sand. Yet, a report by WalletHub in August 2026 named Idaho, a landlocked destination in the West, as the best state to live in. Idaho, which officially gained statehood in 1890, has attracted waves of newcomers in recent years (according to USAFacts, Idaho's population saw a 1.4% increase between 2024 and 2025). 

WalletHub provides insight into what makes Idaho so desirable. The finance company evaluated the country's 50 states based on affordability, economy, education and health, quality of life, and safety. Their research data comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, the Council for Community and Economic Research, and the U.S. Census Bureau, among several other official agencies and organizations. Each state was given a score out of 100, based on 51 indicators, ranging from housing affordability to educational attainment. 

Idaho received a total score of 60.15, thus earning the title of the best state to live in for 2026. Not to mention, it was named as the second-best state to live in WalletHub's 2025 study, too. The Gem State largely stands out for its financial benefits, alongside its easygoing traffic and safety. Despite their fame and glory, California came in at No. 31 and Florida at No. 10. Who came in last, you might be asking? That would be New Mexico, with a score of 41.42.

Thinking about moving to Idaho? As explained by WalletHub, there are plenty of financial and other benefits to living in the Gem State. Although property prices in Idaho are higher than the national average, the state has a 0.5% median real estate tax rate, which is partly why WalletHub ranked Idaho 10th in affordability. In fact, Boise, a lively college city, is one of the best places to retire in America out west due to this very reason.

Safety is another bonus, with WalletHub reporting that Idaho has the 14th lowest violent crime rate in the country, ranking as the third safest state to live in. If you're wondering which Idaho city is the safest, SafeWise bestowed Weiser, a small city and the "Fiddle Capital of the World," with this title in 2026. Can't stand road congestion and gridlock? This is something that California is notorious for, though the same can't be said about Idaho. WalletHub says that Idahoans enjoy minimal traffic. Boise, for example, is Idaho's largest city, and despite this, U.S. News & World Report states that the average commute time is only 17 minutes.

Conversely, Idaho ranked 22nd in education and health. This is something to keep in mind if you have school-aged children, as the state has previously made headlines for its underfunded public school system. In contrast to California and Florida, you won't find coastal beaches in the Gem State, but Idaho's natural wonders are calling with waterfalls, canyons, and breathtaking trails. That is, the state is suited for nature lovers seeking an assortment of outdoor adventures.