The 10 Richest States in America

In life, “being rich” can mean different things. You can be rich in the traditional, financial sense, but you can also have a wealth of time, knowledge, or experience. The following states are perfect examples — rich in money, yes, but also in history, culture, and natural beauty that make them endlessly appealing places to visit. Here are the 10 wealthiest states in America, ranked by median household income according to the U.S. Census Bureau, along with all the other qualities that make them abundant in riches.

10. Connecticut

Median household income: $91,665

Connecticut ranks as the 10th-wealthiest state in the country, but the Constitution State holds more appeal than just plain economics. Connecticut’s quintessential New England charm is evident throughout the state, from the centuries-old homes and cobblestone streets of towns like Essex and Old Saybrook, to the rolling fields and bucolic vistas in Litchfield Hills. 

For a dose of literary history, visit the historic Mark Twain House and the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center in Hartford. Or check out the Mystic Seaport Museum to learn about Connecticut’s port trading and shipbuilding past, which helped fuel the state’s economic growth, along with the state later becoming a hub for industries such as finance and insurance. In fact, Hartford, the state capital, is nicknamed the “Insurance Capital of the World.”

9. Colorado

Median household income: $92,911

The Centennial State is a great place to visit and an even better place to live — but it will cost you a pretty penny to do so. The state’s wealth boom and early population growth kicked off with the gold and silver mining industries (which you can explore in places like Silverton), and today it boasts a diversified economy and a highly educated population. 

Colorado’s wealthiest residents are concentrated in areas like Pitkin County, home to elite ski resorts such as Aspen and Snowmass. Much of the state’s allure lies in the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains, which provide ample opportunities to ski, bike, camp, hike, or simply soak up the scenic beauty. Resort towns like Glenwood Springs provide respite from outdoor adventures, with hot springs to soak in after a long day outside.

8. Utah

Median household income: $93,421

Thanks to a strong, diversified economy (including a burgeoning tech industry), Utah residents aren’t just rich — they’re also happy. Of course, financial stability helps in that regard, but perhaps some of those smiles have to do with the Beehive State offering such a wide variety of outdoor activities set amid some of the most beautiful backdrops in the U.S. 

Adventurous types should check out Utah’s “Mighty Five” national parks — if you plan it right, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef can all be squeezed into one epic road trip. Alternatively, plan a ski trip to top-notch resorts like Alta, Park City, or Snowbird for a taste of Utah’s famous champagne powder.

7. Washington

Median household income: $94,605

Home to some of the world’s biggest companies, such as Amazon, Boeing, and Microsoft, the state of Washington has one of the nation’s strongest economies, but some would say it’s even richer in biodiversity. Home to serene marine coastlines, impossibly lush temperate rainforests, dry upland prairies, and one of the tallest mountains in the contiguous U.S., Washington’s national parks showcase a breathtaking variety of natural landscapes. 

For urban types, the city of Seattle has everything you’re looking for — it’s culturally diverse, laid-back, and rich in cuisine, arts, and culture, from the lively market at Pikes Place Market to the glass-blown sculptures at Chihuly Garden and Glass. On the east side of the state, Walla Walla is home to over 120 vineyards, known for their excellent syrahs, merlots, and rieslings.

6. Hawaii

Median household income: $95,322

If you’re wondering how much it costs to live in paradise, it probably won’t come as much of a surprise that Hawaii has a notably high cost of living. However, the Aloha State also has the sixth-highest median household income in the nation, along with some of America’s happiest residents. 

Hawaii has a laid-back attitude and endless natural beauty everywhere you look. From stargazing on the Big Island’s Mauna Kea, to driving the scenic (and somewhat anxiety-inducing) Road to Hana, to exploring Waimea Canyon (aka the Grand Canyon of the Pacific), Hawaii is wealthy with opportunities for adventure.

5. California

Median household income: $95,521

If California were its own economy, it would be the fourth-largest in the world — which tells you all you need to know about the amount of wealth concentrated in the Golden State, home to both the powerhouse tech hub of Silicon Valley in the north and Tinseltown down south.

But California isn’t too shabby for visitors, either. Nature lovers can take their pick between giant redwood forests, the deserts of Joshua Tree, or the foggy cliffs at Big Sur. The cities are just as unique, depending on your vibe. Whether you prefer the Hollywood glitz and glamour in Los Angeles, the cultural attractions in San Francisco, or the beaches of Santa Barbara, California has you covered.

4. New Hampshire

Median household income: $96,838

Though states like California may steal the spotlight in terms of wealth, New Hampshire is underrated, both as a place to live and as a travel destination. Mountain lovers flock to the indomitable Mount Washington, which can be accessed on foot, by car, or via historic cog train. 

The Lakes Region is also worthy of a visit, with the popular Lake Winnipesaukee or the serene Squam Lake being ideal spots for summer vacations. And a small stretch of eastern New Hampshire provides access to the Atlantic coastline, while seacoast towns like Portsmouth offer visitors a look into the state’s seaport past that helped fuel its wealth during the colonial period and early years of the U.S.

3. Maryland

Median household income: $98,678

In terms of geography, Maryland might be small, but residents take home big paychecks. Maryland benefits from a highly educated and skilled workforce, along with proximity to federal jobs in Washington, D.C., and a strong presence in industries such as biotech and health care.

For residents and visitors alike, the state’s compact size makes it easy to enjoy all that it has to offer, from the beaches of Chesapeake Bay to the beauty of the Appalachian foothills. Baltimore is known for great food (steamed blue crabs are a must-try), along with an interesting arts and live music scene. Nautical buffs shouldn’t skip Annapolis, home of the U.S. Naval Academy and the infamous Ego Alley, known for its expensive yachts.

2. New Jersey

Median household income: $99,781

New Jersey not only has close proximity to high-paying jobs in New York City and Philadelphia, but is also a major hub for the pharmaceutical, information technology, and transportation industries. And while America’s second-wealthiest state may have a reputation for the fist-bumping of Jersey Shore, locals know that the Garden State is home to a variety of lovely beach towns, like the picturesque Avalon (a favorite destination of Oprah Winfrey) and the historic Cape May, the nation’s first seaside resort destination. For a dose of the state’s abundant natural beauty, check out Delaware Water Gap or the Pine Barrens.

1. Massachusetts

Median household income: $99,858

Massachusetts has had a lot of firsts, from the country’s first public park to its first subway system. And with a median household income that just about reaches six figures, it comes in first on the list of richest states in the U.S. 

Affluent Boston is the state’s epicenter of wealth, and it’s also a great place to dive into the state’s rich history. Spend a day on the Freedom Trail to learn about Boston’s role in the Revolutionary War or drive 25 miles to Concord to see where it all began. Farther west, the Berkshires offer a more low-key lifestyle that doesn’t skimp on culture: Check out Tanglewood for concerts in the summer or visit MASS MoCa, a contemporary art museum in a charming small-town setting.