FAQ: Understanding the 2025 WalletHub Study on States with the Most At-Risk Youth

What is the main focus of the WalletHub study?

The study focuses on identifying the states with the most at-risk youth in 2025 by comparing them across 15 key indicators, including disconnected youth rates and youth poverty rates.

Why is this study significant?

It’s significant because it highlights the challenges faced by young Americans who are neither working nor in school, exposing them to greater risks of poverty and violence.

How did WalletHub determine the states with the most at-risk youth?

WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 15 key indicators of youth risk, such as the share of disconnected youth and the youth poverty rate.

Which states have the most at-risk youth according to the study?

Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico, South Dakota, and Arkansas are among the top states with the most at-risk youth.

Which states have the least at-risk youth?

New Jersey, New Hampshire, Minnesota, Connecticut, and Nebraska are among the states with the least at-risk youth.

What are some key statistics from the study?

Key stats include Louisiana having the highest share of disconnected youth, New Mexico with the highest share of youth without a high school diploma, and Vermont with the highest share of youth using drugs in the past month.

Where can I find more information about the study?

More information can be found by reading the full article on WalletHub’s website or the summary provided on citybiz.

Who is affected by the findings of this study?

Young Americans, especially those neither working nor in school, are directly affected, along with policymakers and organizations focused on youth welfare.

What implications does this study have?

The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to support at-risk youth and reduce disparities among states in youth welfare and opportunities.