Which state pays the most money to educate a child?

Asked by: Yasmine Waters  |  Last update: May 6, 2026
Score: 4.7/5 (65 votes)

Among the 41 states with reported data, New York schools led the nation in per-pupil spending in 2021 and 2022, spending $26,571 in 2021 and $27,504 in 2022.

Which states get the most federal funding for education?

Using this metric, Alaska had the highest rate of federal funding in 2021 at roughly $8,628 per person, a whole 26.5% more than the second-highest state, Rhode Island, which received $6,821. They're followed by New Mexico ($6,748), Wyoming ($6,718), and Delaware ($6,011).

Which states fund higher education the most?

The United States, on average, spent $31,890 per FTES in two- and four-year public postsecondary institutions in 2021. Among the states, Alaska spent the most, with $50,912 per FTES, followed by Connecticut ($47,407), Wyoming ($46,145), and Delaware ($46,007).

How much does Florida pay per student?

Florida invests $9,645 per pupil, recognizing the importance of investing in education and providing resources for student growth and achievement.

Which state spends the most on education per student?

Among the 41 states with reported data, New York schools led the nation in per-pupil spending in 2021 and 2022, spending $26,571 in 2021 and $27,504 in 2022.

Which country gives the most cash for children? - BBC News

41 related questions found

Where does Florida rank in education spending?

Increases to the overall education budget generally and to the BSA particularly are critical, given the state's ranking of 42nd in per pupil expenditures.

What is the #1 state in the US for education?

May 7, 2024, at 12:01 a.m. A young woman walks on the University of South Florida campus in Tampa, Florida. For the second year in a row, Florida is the top state for education in U.S. News & World Report's Best States rankings. The debate around education in Florida is among the most contentious in America.

What states have the lowest school funding?

About 60 percent of the nation's students that are in these chronically underfunded districts are in just 10 states. Yet these states—Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, and Texas—serve only about 30 percent of the nation's students.

Which state has the best public school funding?

Statistics are not adjusted for inflation or cost-of-living differences between geographic areas. The states spending the most per pupil were New York ($29,873), the District of Columbia ($27,425), New Jersey ($25,099), Vermont ($24,608), and Connecticut ($24,453).

What is the #1 least educated state?

1. West Virginia. West Virginia is the least educated state in America with nearly half of its adult population aged 25 and above having only a high school diploma or less as their education. Higher education attainment also remains extremely low in the state.

What state is #1 in quality of life?

Washington. Washington state has the highest quality of life in all 50 states. The state has no income tax, a thriving job market, and great international business opportunities. Residents enjoy one of the nation's longest life expectancies, likely in part of their strong healthcare system and lifestyle habits.

Which state has the best education system?

Massachusetts has the best-ranked public schools in the United States and is the second-most educated state, just behind the District of Columbia. About 90.40% of Massachusetts adults have a high school diploma, and 42.90% have a Bachelor's degree or higher.

Who provides the most funding for education?

In the 2022 fiscal year, the most recent data available, spending for public K-12 education totaled $857 billion from all sources. State and local governments provide the vast majority of funding for K-12 education — 86 percent of all school funding.

Which states tend to spend the least money on education?

The District of Columbia's per pupil spending was $23,668. These states also generally had the most spending per capita in 2021. Per pupil spending was lowest in the following states: Idaho ($8,508), Arizona ($8,853), Utah ($9,278), and Oklahoma ($10,055).

What is the best state to live in?

Here are the findings for 2024. This year, the best state to live in is Massachusetts. It's the best overall and also best in the category of education and health. This state has the lowest rate of premature death—and also the lowest percentage of adults who live with fair or poor health.

Why is Florida ranked so high in education?

But why did Florida rank so high? According to U.S. News, Florida's placement in the education rankings is largely thanks to its achievement in higher education. The state's college graduation rates and tuition fees helped it make the No.

What is Florida number 1 in?

Tallahassee, Fla., May 7, 2024 – Today, U.S. News & World Report announced that Florida is again ranked #1 in the nation for education. The publication's Best State ranking is based on a combination of strong performances in higher education and K-12 metrics.

What state has the lowest education funding?

K-12 schools in Alaska receive the most funding per pupil from the federal government. North Dakota receives the second-most federal funding for K-12 schools. Utah receives the lowest amount per pupil from the federal government. Kansas receives the second-lowest amount per pupil in federal funding.

Which city in Florida has the best education?

According to data from the Florida Department of Education, as of 2024, the 10 best school districts with the highest grades are:
  • Nassau: A or 518 points.
  • Sarasota: A or 504 points.
  • Collier: A or 495 points.
  • Liberty: A or 488 points.
  • Gilchrist: A or 486 points.
  • Miami-Dade: A or 480 points.
  • Wakulla: ABor 480 points.