New York ranks 8th for children’s health care in the U.S.

With rising concerns around health care access and affordability, a new WalletHub study ranks New York as the 8th best state for children’s health care in 2025. The report arrives just ahead of Every Kid Healthy Week (April 21), spotlighting states that offer the best care for kids based on 33 key metrics.

Why Did New York Rank So High?

The analysis compared all 50 states and the District of Columbia across factors like health care access, quality, and cost for children aged 0 to 17. New York excelled in several critical areas:

These numbers underscore New York’s success in expanding coverage and care, particularly for low-income families and vulnerable children.

What This Means for Families

According to WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo, “The quality of children’s health care should be one of the most important considerations for parents when deciding where to live.” Lupo emphasized the importance of preventive care and early-life support systems such as nutrition and safe recreational spaces.

While New York fares well nationally, there’s still room for improvement—especially in childhood obesity rates and vaccination coverage, where the state ranks closer to the national average.

Expert Tips for Raising Healthy Kids

The WalletHub report also features expert advice from child development and public health professionals:

• Emotional & Social Health: Modeling kindness and setting clear expectations helps kids build emotional resilience and self-regulation, says Dr. Gustavo Carlo of UC Irvine.
• Preventive Habits: Encouraging whole foods, hydration, adequate sleep, and regular checkups is essential, adds Dr. Lise M. Youngblade of Colorado State University.
• Mental Health: Dr. Youngblade also stresses the importance of routine and open communication to tackle the youth mental health crisis, noting that “nearly 60% of youth with major depression are untreated.”

National Trends in Preventive Care

One concerning trend noted by experts is the decline in vaccine uptake due to misinformation. “Anti-vaccine sentiment is undermining decades of public health success,” warns Youngblade. This hesitancy could compromise herd immunity and increase preventable disease risks for children.

How Does New York Compare to the Best?

The top-ranked state in the study is Massachusetts, which boasts:

• The lowest infant mortality rate in the U.S.
• Only 1.5% of children uninsured
• High rates of both medical and dental preventive visits

Though New York didn’t claim the top spot, its top-10 ranking highlights strong health infrastructure and progressive policies supporting children’s well-being.

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