Welcoming a new baby is one of the most special times in life. Choosing where to have a baby can greatly affect both the experience and costs involved. In 2025, some states stand out because of their excellent healthcare, affordable childbirth, and family-friendly services. Others struggle with higher risks and expenses that can add stress to new parents.
Here's a helpful list of the five best and five worst states to have a baby this year. This guide uses recent research from trusted sources that looked at costs, healthcare quality, baby-friendliness, and family support to rank the states.
Top 5 Best States to Have a Baby in 2025
Massachusetts
Known for top healthcare and family support, Massachusetts has one of the lowest infant and maternal mortality rates. It offers great neonatal care and strong parental leave options, though childbirth costs can be higher than in some states.
North Dakota
North Dakota is affordable, with the lowest costs for hospital deliveries and childcare. It also provides good healthcare access, making it a practical choice for new parents.
Minnesota
Minnesota scores well across the board with excellent healthcare, many pediatricians per capita, and affordable childcare. Its family-friendly policies help make parenting easier.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers solid healthcare and family support. While baby-friendliness ranks slightly lower, overall, it remains one of the best places for new families.
Maine
Maine balances healthcare quality and family support with relatively manageable costs. It provides a supportive environment for parents and a healthy start for babies.
5 Worst States to Have a Baby in 2025
Mississippi
Struggling with the highest infant and maternal mortality rates, Mississippi also faces challenges with healthcare access and safety that make it the most difficult state for new parents.
Alabama
Alabama has poor outcomes for infant health and higher childbirth risks, along with less affordable childcare.
Nevada
Nevada ranks low in healthcare quality and family support, increasing risks and costs for new parents.
South Carolina
South Carolina sees higher mortality rates and lacks some of the family-friendly services found in better-ranked states.
Georgia
Georgia rounds out the lowest five, with a combination of high costs, lower healthcare ratings, and fewer supportive family resources.
Choosing where to have a baby is about making life easier for both baby and parents. These states show how location plays a big role in creating a healthy, supportive start for new families in 2025.
