Montana And North Dakota Are Really Liked

With everything going on across the country these days, it’s nice to pause and remember, we’ve actually got it pretty good here. Sure, eggs cost more than we’d like, and filling up the gas tank sometimes feels like a small financial commitment, but overall? Life up here in the northern plains is treating us just fine.

That’s not just hometown pride talking either. According to rankings from MSN, the “most and least hated states” in America were revealed, and our neck of the woods came out looking pretty darn likable.

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Montana and Minneaota Liked States

Montana and Minnesota Rank Among America’s Most Loved States

Montana snagged an impressive title as the third least hated state in the entire nation, proving that wide open spaces, friendly folks, and mountain views go a long way. Not far behind, Minnesota landed at fifth least hated, which makes sense. It’s hard to dislike a state known for “Minnesota nice,” hotdish, and an unshakeable love for hockey.

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North Dakota and South Dakota Liked States

The Dakotas: Quietly Winning Hearts in the Middle of the Pack

South Dakota held its own at 26th, right in the middle of the pack, and North Dakota rounded things out at 34th. That’s not bad at all, especially when you consider there are 50 states out there vying for attention. Apparently, you can’t hate a place that gives you friendly waves from passing pickups, festivals in every season, and sunsets that seem to last forever.

Illinois Tops List as America’s Most Hated State

Now, if you’re wondering who took home the dubious honor of being the most hated state, that would be Illinois, where 25% of residents themselves said it’s the worst place to live. The state’s also seen a population drop of about half a percent, which suggests a few folks didn’t just complain, they packed up and left.

The “hate” rankings were based on three factors: how many residents said their own state was the worst, population decline, and how many other states said they disliked it.

So, as it turns out, folks may grumble about the cold or the mosquitoes up here, but deep down, people like living in the Upper Midwest, and apparently, the rest of the country doesn’t mind us either. I’d say that’s something to smile about.

Feeding the Nation: A Look at North Dakota’s Most Valuable Crops

Farming is the backbone of America—98% of the nation’s 2 million farms are family-run, feeding an average of 166 people each year. Though agriculture makes up just 1% of the U.S. economy, it’s rich in tradition and diversity, with more African American, Hispanic, and Latino farmers than ever before. One in four are new to the field, and many have served in the military.

In 2022, U.S. farm exports hit a record $191 billion. According to Stacker, here’s how North Dakota’s top crops ranked by value—and why the Peace Garden State punches above its weight in feeding the world.

Gallery Credit: Scott Haugen