Flipboard 2025 Destinations

Canadians are famously proud of their country—and quick to point out where it outperforms the United States. But polling and cross-border comparisons suggest something more complicated is happening beneath the surface. On certain issues, many Canadians will admit the U.S. has real advantages. Not always comfortably. And rarely without caveats.

Santa won’t admit it publicly, but he has favorite states—and a few he quietly complains about to the reindeer before every landing. Based on real data and Santa’s notes, here’s how the states rank on the big man's nice and naughty list.

Based on national survey data, these are the states where people vent the most—about…well, about pretty much everything. It’s part science, part sass, and totally relatable.

California’s reputation might be all palm trees and perfect weather—but the data tells a different story. According to the latest 2025 Quality of Life Index, California only ranks 29th in the nation. That means there are 28 states where people statistically live better.

Sure, every city has its charm—but not all are equally beloved by their residents. In fact, some U.S. cities consistently rank poorly when locals are asked about quality of life, safety, infrastructure, and overall satisfaction.

If we asked you what state has been ranked best in the country for the last three years—would you have said Utah? Well, if you answered anything other than Utah you would've been wrong. Because, according to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best States ranking, the Beehive State is the best of the best in 2025 (a title it also wore in 2023 and 2024).

Think your state takes too much of your paycheck? Or maybe you brag about living in a “low-tax” paradise? Not all taxes are created equal. Some states lean heavily on income taxes, others on sales or property, and a few don’t tax certain things at all.

A new study ranks the best fishing states in America for 2026, revealing how affordability, coastal access, and infrastructure are reshaping where anglers find the best fishing opportunities nationwide.

Europe will introduce new travel rules in 2026, including the ETIAS travel authorization and digital border checks, meaning visitors from visa-free countries must complete a quick online approval before visiting.

Some states have a rather clear advantage over others when it comes to making it through an invasion in one piece (or at least in fewer pieces, as the case may be).

We all have opinions about which states are “the best.” So, for this ranking of the states, we went directly to the source of those opinions—Americans themselves. How do they actually feel about living where they live?