From career opportunities to educational institutions, cost of living to the overall vibe, here is the list of the worst states for Gen Z that they should avoid at all cost.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma depends on the energy sector. This makes the economy vulnerable when oil prices drop. They cut education funding. This narrow focus provides fewer appealing opportunities.
- Rank in quality of life: 40
- Rank in work & education: 43
Delaware
Delaware needs more industry diversity, as it leans on chemical and financial services. Costs like housing are high in urban areas — underfunded schools and social services concern for youth.
- Rank in quality of life: 44
- Rank in work & education: 12
Arizona
Low wages and limited job options in fields that interest Gen Z make Arizona less appealing. Fast population growth strains resources. Costs of living are increasing.
- Rank in quality of life: 48
- Rank in work & education: 30
Kentucky
Kentucky needs help with poverty and weak education results. Job growth is slower than in other states. Social services need improvement. The limitations on opportunities exist.
- Rank in quality of life: 37
- Rank in work & education: 41
Tennessee
Tennessee needs more investment in education and infrastructure. Wages need to be higher for Gen Z. Fast urbanization increases costs in cities like Nashville.
- Rank in quality of life: 43
- Rank in work & education: 37
Arkansas
Arkansas ranks low for healthcare, education, economy, and infrastructure. Opportunities are scarce while poverty and crime rates stay high. It is not the ideal launchpad.
- Rank in quality of life: 45
- Rank in work & education: 44
South Carolina
South Carolina’s job market is dull. The state under-invests in education and social services. Unfair income and fewer chances to advance are major concerns.
- Rank in quality of life: 42
- Rank in work & education: 40
Louisiana
Louisiana faces money and school challenges. It needs to improve appealing industries besides tourism. Natural disasters occur.
- Rank in quality of life: 49
- Rank in work & education: 48
New Mexico
New Mexico struggles with high poverty and weak school systems. Good healthcare is hard to access in many areas. Job prospects seem restricted for this generation.
- Rank in quality of life: 47
- Rank in work & education: 49
West Virginia
West Virginia’s declining coal industry gives few career options for Gen Z. Subpar education, infrastructure, and high poverty rates are worrying.
- Rank in quality of life: 35
- Rank in work & education: 45
Alabama
Alabama needs significant improvements to education, unfair income, social services, and infrastructure. Advancement options seem stifled. On the plus side, the costs of living are low.
- Rank in quality of life: 46
- Rank in work & education: 46
Mississippi
Mississippi ranks fourth amongst the worst states for healthcare. It also needs to improve the economy, infrastructure, and education. Poverty and unemployment rates are troubling. Opportunities could be more sparse.
- Rank in quality of life: 50
- Rank in work & education: 50