According to WalletHub, Connecticut continues to prove it's one of the best places in America to raise and educate a family. A new nationwide study ranked the Nutmeg State as having the second-best public school system in the country, trailing only neighboring Massachusetts.

WRKI and WINE logo
Get our free mobile app

Rather than looking at just test scores, WalletHub took a much broader approach. The rankings were based on 32 different factors, including academic performance, school funding, classroom size, safety, teacher qualifications, and overall learning environment. In other words, it wasn't just about grades—it was about giving students the best opportunity to succeed.

Connecticut performed especially well in several key areas. The state boasts some of the highest ACT scores in the nation and has one of the country's best student-to-teacher ratios, giving educators more opportunities to work with students in smaller classroom settings. Connecticut also has a strong showing when it comes to advanced academics, with a large percentage of public schools ranking among the nation's best and many students earning passing scores on Advanced Placement exams.

Safety also helped push Connecticut near the top of the list. WalletHub highlighted the state's regular school safety audits, low rates of illegal drugs on school property, and relatively low youth incarceration rates. Connecticut also ranked among the nation's best for keeping weapons off school campuses.

For parents considering where to put down roots, these rankings are another reminder of why Connecticut schools continue to enjoy such a strong reputation. While no education system is perfect, it's encouraging to see the state consistently earn high marks in areas that matter most to families—strong academics, safe learning environments, and resources that help students thrive.

WalletHub's Top 10 States for Public School Systems:

1. Massachusetts

2. Connecticut

3. New Jersey

4. New Hampshire

5. Wisconsin

6. Virginia

7. Vermont

8. New York

9.Rhode Island

10. North Dakota

The Most Mispronounced Towns in Connecticut — Are You Guilty?

Connecticut might be small, but our town names are mighty confusing. If you didn’t grow up here, there’s a very good chance you’re pronouncing at least one of these wrong. Don’t worry — we won’t judge you. Much.

Gallery Credit: Lou Milano

Look Inside the Largest Indoor Collaborative Artwork in the World

I visited the American Mural Project in Winsted, Connecticut for the first time recently, and for those who haven't seen it, here's a quick peek at what to expect when you gaze upon the largest indoor collaborative piece of artwork in the world

Gallery Credit: Photos by Large Dave

The Forgotten Connecticut Inventions That Changed America

Connecticut has invented a lot more than submarines and insurance paperwork. The everyday stuff — the things you eat, toss, crank, or stash in a drawer — often traces right back to the Nutmeg State. Here’s a look at some fun, surprising, and downright essential items that were born in Connecticut.

Gallery Credit: Lou Milano

 

More From WRKI and WINE