Welcoming a new baby is a joyful experience, but the financial burden that comes with it can be overwhelming. According to Health System Tracker, the average cost of a conventional delivery in the U.S. is nearly $3,000 with insurance and can soar to $15,000 without it. These costs can be a significant concern for prospective parents. However, the financial impact varies from state to state due to differences in living costs and healthcare services.
Minnesota stands out as one of the best places for new parents, ranking third in the nation for the best states to have a baby, according to a recent WalletHub report. This ranking is based on an extensive analysis of 31 key factors, including cost, healthcare accessibility, and family-friendliness.
Why Minnesota Is a Great Place to Have a Baby
One of Minnesota’s strongest points is its low health insurance premiums, averaging just $337 per month, the second-lowest in the country. This affordability is paired with excellent healthcare services, contributing to the state’s third-lowest maternal mortality rate and 10th-lowest infant mortality rate nationwide.
Minnesota also boasts a well-developed healthcare system with the seventh-highest number of nurse midwives, 13th-most obstetricians and gynecologists, and 12th-most pediatricians per capita. This abundance of medical professionals ensures that parents have ample options for care and can access services promptly.
Minnesota Excels in Creating Nurturing Environments for Raising Children
Minnesota ranks second in the nation for the highest share of nationally accredited child-care centers, providing peace of mind for working parents. Additionally, the state ranks third among the best places to raise a family, offering a balanced mix of safety, education, and community support.
“The best states for having a baby minimize costs while providing top-notch care for both newborns and their mothers,” says WalletHub Analyst Cassandra Happe. “They also continue to be good environments for parents long after the birth, with high-quality pediatric care, affordable and accessible child care, and a strong economic environment that makes providing for a child easier.”
Top 11 Best States to Have a Baby
Other Midwest states also performed well in the rankings. North Dakota claimed the second spot, while Iowa ranked 11th, South Dakota 13th, Nebraska 14th, Illinois 19th, and Wisconsin 22nd.
Here are the top 11 states:
Massachusetts
North Dakota
Minnesota
Rhode Island
New Hampshire
District of Columbia
Maine
Vermont
Utah
Washington
Iowa
