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The
Archbridge Institute, a nonpartisan, independent public policy
think tank, released the report titled “Social Mobility in the
50 States.”
Archbridge defines “social mobility” as the opportunity to
better oneself and those around them in hope of living the
American Dream. To rank each state, Archbridge measured a series
of indicators based on the four key pillars of entrepreneurship
and growth; institutions and rule of law; education and skills
development; and social capital.
“The first step toward reform is recognition of where we are
today, and Archbridge’s new report will help policymakers, at
all levels of government, understand social mobility like never
before,” said Gonzalo Schwarz, president and CEO of the
Archbridge Institute. “Defining social mobility based on four
key pillars, our research team has spent many months analyzing
all 50 U.S. states, identifying opportunities for growth in the
best- and worst-performing states.”
Illinois ranked 40th overall in the 2023 Social Mobility Index,
with the lowest score in the East North Central region. The
state ranked in the bottom 10 for predatory state action (49th)
and taxes (46th). Education quality and freedom (12th) is the
only area where Illinois scores in the top half of states.
“Really where Illinois seems to be struggling is in their
entrepreneurship and growth areas which regards basically
regulation, taxes and a dynamic business environment,” said
research fellow Justin Callais.
According to the index, Iowa and Wisconsin both ranked in the
top 15 states for social mobility.
In ranking Utah first in its index, Archbridge recognizes the
state for its business dynamism, parent engagement and stability
and charity, among other factors. Louisiana ranked last in the
country.
“From Utah to Louisiana, we are proud to share the most
comprehensive snapshot of opportunity in America to date, and we
hope that it will lead to positive, lasting change for millions
of Americans,” said Callais. “The time for reform is now."
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