re: What's the worst US state that you've lived in?

Interestingly enough I’d rank Chicago as the best city I’ve lived in, but would rank Illinois as the worst state, if that makes sense. Illinois has nothing going for it after you leave the Chicago city limits.

Combine the bad weather, high taxes, horrible financial situation, zero interesting natural features, and it’s a pretty wretched place to live. I can’t fathom living in a place like Peoria or Rockford. If you are going to live in a shithole at least pick a shithole with warmer weather and lower taxes.

My rankings:

1. North Carolina. Ocean, mountains, 4 seasons but with a mild winter and hot but manageable summers. Moderate taxes and cost of living. This is a fantastic place to live.
2. Minnesota/Wisconsin tie. Minneapolis is better than Milwaukee but Minnesota has nothing to compete with Madison. Weather is a push.
4. Illinois.