The 10 Best State Capitals To Move to in 2025

A new study by WalletHub has revealed the best state capital in the United States for living in 2025, taking into consideration a number of factors that make some cities more appealing and livable than others.

The study compared all 50 state capitals and used 48 metrics to reach a final score. Among the factors considered when ranking the cities were quality of life, education, healthcare, cost of living, and crime rates.

Revealed to be the best to live in for 2025 was Austin, Texas. The city, with a population of nearly 1 million residents, scored high in affordability, economic wellbeing, and quality of education and health. Overall, it got a score of 64.75 out of 100.

It has the highest median household income out of all of the cities examined in the study at $87,519, while it also has the fourth-highest rate of new business openings in the country. The city also ranks at the top when it comes to the share of public schools rated as "above average" by Greatschools.org.

Additionally, it has the third-highest percentage of high schoolers who graduate within four years.

The top 10 best state capitals to live in the U.S. are:

1. Austin, Texas
2. Madison, Wisconsin
3. Raleigh, North Carolina
4. Boise, Idaho
5. Atlanta, Georgia
6. Lincoln, Nebraska
7. Salt Lake City, Utah
8. Denver, Colorado
9. St. Paul, Minnesota
10. Columbus, Ohio

Meanwhile, Augusta, Maine, scored last on the list of the 50 cities, scoring low in areas like economic well-being and affordability.

The worst state capitals to live in the United States, according to WalletHub's study, are:

1. Augusta, Maine
2. Trenton, New Jersey
3. Jackson, Mississippi
4. Baton Rouge, Louisiana
5. Dover, Delaware
6. Hartford, Connecticut
7. Montgomery, Alabama
8. Little Rock, Arkansas
9. Charleston, West Virginia
10. Frankfort, Kentucky

WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo said: "A state's capital city is more than just the seat of its government—it's also often the center of its economic activity. Some state capitals boast incredible job markets, high average salaries, world-class universities, and an abundance of attractions.

"Unfortunately, others have populations that are struggling financially, failing public education systems and poor public health systems. States should aim to make their capital city a shining example of the best they have to offer."

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