10 best and worst states for doctors (2024)

FAQs

What is the best and worst state for doctors to practice in? ›

Montana is the best state for physicians while Hawaii is the worst, according to personal finance site WalletHub. In a report released March 18, WalletHub determined the best and worst states for physicians.

Montana is the best state for doctors, and it has one of the top hospital systems in the country, with 82.5% of patients giving their hospital a score of 9 or 10 out of 10. Montana doctors also receive high wages.

Louisiana has the highest rate of malpractice suits among physicians, a Medscape report found. The report, "Is Your Risk of Being Sued Climbing?

Most Lucrative Doctors' Salaries By State

When it comes to the best-paying states and cities for doctors in the US, you may be surprised to find out that Wisconsin, Indiana, and Georgia are at the top of the list.

A 2023 report by The Commonwealth Fund, an independent research group, also found that the U.S. has the highest rate of people diagnosed with multiple chronic illnesses when compared to other wealthy nations. As for the unhealthiest state in America, West Virginia claims the No. 1 spot.

Which state has the healthiest? ›

Hawaii Is Ranked the Healthiest State, According to New 2023 Health Index. Low disease rates, citizen well-being, and solid healthcare all contribute.

Quality of Life in the United States

The top five states in terms of quality of life are Washington, Minnesota, Utah, New Hampshire, and Idaho, signifying these have the best combination of healthcare, education, economy, infrastructure, opportunity, fiscal stability, crime rates and natural environment.

Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska are the top three states for physicians to practice in the U.S., according to WalletHub's 2024 ranking published March 18. Hawaii, Rhode Island and New Jersey were deemed the worst.

A Clearly Stated Problem

Every state, from Alaska to Florida, shows an increase in shortage ratio by 2030. There are three states forecast to have the largest ratio shortage by 2030: Mississippi, New Mexico, and Louisiana. That ratio is the physician shortage per 100,000 U.S. residents.

Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska are the top three states for physicians to practice in the U.S., according to WalletHub's 2024 ranking published March 18.

Nevada – complex documentation requirements and poor communication with applicants. Texas – lengthy timelines, complex documentation requirements and additional exam requirements for licensure. California – lengthy timelines and complex documentation requirements, particularly for international medical graduates.