Boston has been named one of the top state capitals to live in, according to WalletHub’s 2025’s Best State Capitals to Live In report.

WalletHub compared the 50 state capitals across four metrics, including affordability, economic well-being, quality of education and health, and quality of life. The cities were also compared across 48 key livability indicators, including cost of living, K-12 school-system quality and number of attractions. 

Boston ranked 19th on the list with a total score of 52.52. It was also No. 2 in quality of education and health, and quality of life. Beantown had an affordability ranking of 49 and ranked 24th for economic well being. 

Boston was dead last in the rankings when it comes to affordable housing, but also ranked No. 1 for debt as a percentage of median income. Plus, it ranked No. 4 for number of restaurants per capita. Boston tied for first place for number of attractions with Honolulu, Austin, Denver and Atlanta.

Boston also had one of the highest percentages of millennial newcomers, ranking third. 

WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo said that a state’s capital is more than just the seat of its government, it’s also often the center of its economic activity. 

“Some state capitals boast incredible job markets, high average salaries, world-class universities and an abundance of attractions,” Lupo said. “Unfortunately, others have populations that are struggling financially, failing public education systems and poor public health systems. States should aim to make their capital city a shining example of the best they have to offer.”

Austin, Texas topped the list followed by Madison, Wisconsin and Raleigh, North Carolina. Boise, Idaho and Atlanta, Georgia rounded out the top five.