By Bob Katzen

“Massachusetts is the best state to live in, due in large part to its strong health care system and high-quality education. Massachusetts has the lowest premature death rate in the country and the lowest share of adults in fair or poor health. It also has the highest share of residents with health insurance coverage, at 97.3 percent.

The Bay State also ranks first for the quality of its school systems; third for its property crime rate; and third in access to public transportation.”
—From Wallet Hub’s ranking of the top states in which to live.

“We are proud to see Massachusetts recognized as the best state to live in the country. Massachusetts’ greatest strength is our people. We are home to the best schools, the best healthcare and the most innovative businesses – but this isn’t the time to rest on our laurels. Our administration is dedicated to building on this momentum by continuing to invest in our communities, make Massachusetts more affordable and ensure that we remain the best place to live for future generations.”
—Gov. Healey.

“The governor is very lucky that Massachusetts has such excellent universities and hospitals, because our education and healthcare edge is almost entirely what brought us to the top spot. On the issues she actually has control over, namely affordability, our state scored as one of the worst. We may have excellent health care and higher education opportunities, but if people can’t afford to live here and use them, what does it matter?”
—Paul Craney, a spokesman for the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance.

“We know Massachusetts is a great place to live, but it didn’t happen by accident. Since taking office, the Healey-Driscoll administration has cut taxes for families, seniors and businesses and produced responsible budgets that have increased investments in our schools, childcare, college accessibility and the environment.”
—Administration and Finance Secretary Matthew Gorzkowicz.

“Massachusetts may score high from a theoretical standpoint, but the reality on the ground is very different. We’ve seen one of the largest outflows of people and wealth from our state in recent history. Poll after poll shows that over 20 percent of everyone in the commonwealth is looking to leave in the next few years. If Massachusetts is doing so well, why is everyone leaving?”
—Paul Craney, a spokesman for the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance.