Why New Mexico Ranks As Second-Worst State In 2024
New Mexico is filled with lots of great stuff, I mean, it's called the "Land of Enchantment" for a reason, right? Well, not everyone is a fan because New Mexico just ranked as the number two worst state to live in!
This is all according to a recent WalletHub survey titled "The Best States to Live in 2024", where all 50 states were assessed on five key metrics. WalletHub assessed each state's affordability, economy, education and health, quality of life, and safety.
While New Mexico didn't come in dead last, that is reserved for the Pelican State, New Mexico came in at number 49.
When I think of the state of New Mexico, I think of its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and unique blend of history and modern attractions; also sopapillas. However, those reasons weren't enough for WalletHub to give it a higher ranking.
The main complaint is the high crime rate. According to Safetyhome.org, Gallup has one of the highest violent-crime rates in New Mexico.
Overall, New Mexico ranked the highest in violent-crime rates in the nation, with more than 700 violent crimes per 100,000 residents taking place in 2022, per the FBI's annual report on crimes.
The state also has the highest rate of burglary and the fourth-highest rate of auto theft.
New Mexico also didn't rank well in education and health.
This is a big surprise to me because, not too long ago I found a different survey that found this New Mexico town to be one of the best places to live in. Despite the quaint charm of Las Cruces, it couldn't save New Mexico from falling to the bottom of the list.
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Gallery Credit: Maleri McHam