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Is Columbus, Ohio one of the best or worst state capitals to live in? What new study says

Columbus, Ohio
Columbus, Ohio City of Columbus website

State capitals are often known for their location, standing as the center of state, legislative and judicial business, but is that all?

State capitals don’t just symbolize government operations; rather, state capitals offer a cultural scene full of unique cuisine, attractions and people that reflect the state’s way of life — ultimately making some state capitals better to live in than others.

In fact, a new Wallethub study just ranked each state’s capital by livability, i.e. which state capitals are the most affordable and the best for quality of life, education, and health care. Here’s where Columbus, Ohio ranked and why:

Columbus, Ohio ranks 15th best state capital to live in

According to the study by Wallethub, Columbus, Ohio is the 15th best state capital to live in, but why?

Well the study ranked each state’s capital using certain factors like affordability, economic stability, quality of life, education, and health care, ranging from cost of living and crime rates to the quality of K–12 school systems. Here’s how Columbus ranked in each of the categories:

  • Affordability: 20 out of 50
  • Economic well-being: 27 out of 50
  • Quality of education and health: 26 out of 50
  • Quality of life: 11 out of 50
  • Overall rank: 15 out of 50

Which other state capitals ranked high on the list? Here’s what to know:

5 best state capitals to live in

  • Number 1: Austin, Texas
  • 2: Raleigh, North Carolina
  • 3: Atlanta, Georgia
  • 4: Madison, Wisconsin
  • 5: Boise, Idaho

5 worst state capitals to live in

  • Number 50: Jackson, Mississippi 
  • 49: Augusta, Maine
  • 48: Trenton, New Jersey
  • 47: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
  • 46: Little Rock, Arkansas

What do you think of this study? Let me know in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com

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Chelsea Madden
The Telegraph
Chelsea is a service journalism reporter who began working for McClatchy in 2022. She was born and raised in Middle Georgia and lives in Forsyth. She attended Wesleyan College for undergrad and a few years after that, went to SCAD for an MFA in writing. Outside of work, Chelsea likes to watch Netflix, read books in the thriller genre and chase her toddler around.