New Jersey, New York Top ‘Most Disliked States’ Lists as Cost, Taxes, Attitude Drive Perception

Recent rankings cite affordability, population loss, and public sentiment as key factors

Chicago, IL — Illinois, New Jersey, and New York are frequently ranked among the “most disliked” states in recent 2025–2026 analyses, with high taxes, cost of living, and population decline driving negative perceptions.

Compiled data from surveys and sentiment analyses show Illinois most often landing at the top of these rankings, followed by New Jersey and New York, with residents and outsiders alike citing economic pressures and quality-of-life concerns.

Rankings reflect perception, not official designa...