Connecticut Ranked 5th Best State for Quality of Life by CNBC

According to CNBC, Connecticut is once again proving it's one of the best places in the country when it comes to quality of life.

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As part of its annual America's Top States for Business rankings, CNBC also grades every state on how enjoyable it is to live there. While Ohio took home the overall title for business this year, Connecticut quietly earned a spot in the top five for quality of life, finishing fifth in the nation with an "A" grade.

The rankings aren't based on just one thing, either. CNBC looked at several factors that affect everyday life, including crime rates, air quality, access to healthcare, the affordability and availability of childcare, legal protections, and other policies that can impact residents.

Connecticut scored 205 out of a possible 290 points, trailing only Vermont, Maine, New Jersey, and Minnesota. If you're noticing a trend, you're not alone. Four of the top five states are in the Northeast, which might surprise people who assume the region's high cost of living automatically makes it a less desirable place to call home.

Sure, Connecticut has its share of challenges. Anyone who's opened an electric bill or paid property taxes already knows that. But rankings like this suggest there's more to the story. Strong healthcare, relatively low crime in many communities, and access to services continue to help the state earn high marks year after year.

At the other end of the list, Tennessee finished last for quality of life, followed by Texas, Indiana, Louisiana, and Georgia. Those states received failing grades based on CNBC's scoring system.

No ranking is going to settle every debate about where it's best to live, but if you're a Connecticut resident, this is another reminder that the Nutmeg State continues to stand out for more than just pizza, fall foliage, and beautiful coastline.

CNBC's Top 5 States for Quality of Life

1. Vermont
2. Maine
3. New Jersey
4. Minnesota
5. Connecticut