As Hispanic Heritage Month unfolds, WalletHub, a personal finance website, has released its comprehensive report on the most and least diverse states in the United States in 2023. With women now holding over 10% of Fortune 500 CEO positions for the first time, the report offers insight into the broader diversity dynamics across the nation.
This report emphasizes the immense diversity disparities that exist across the United States. It highlights states like West Virginia, Maine, and New Hampshire, which demonstrate greater homogeneity compared to their more diverse counterparts.
WalletHub’s analysis examined six key categories including socio-economic, cultural, economic, household, religious, and political diversity. These factors aim to pinpoint the states with the most robust idea and identity exchanges at the highest levels, as well as those with relatively homogeneous populations. The findings reveal a stark contrast between states at both ends of the diversity spectrum.
The Top 10 Least Diverse States
- North Dakota
- Utah
- Wyoming
- Iowa
- Kentucky
- Montana
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Maine
- West Virginia
Other Important Findings
According to the survey, Hawaii leads the nation in racial and ethnic diversity. It is three times higher than Maine, which sits at the opposite end of the spectrum as one of the lowest diversity states.
California takes the crown for language diversity. The state rates 2.3 times higher than West Virginia, the state ranked lowest in this category.
Nevada boasts the highest birthplace diversity It represents a rate three times greater than that of Louisiana, which claims the lowest birthplace diversity among all states. However, Louisiana stands out for religious diversity, surpassing New Hampshire by 2.1 times.
Discussions around diversity and inclusion continue to shape our understanding of American society. The survey offers data points for evaluating the progress made. It also shows the work still to be done in creating a more equitable and inclusive nation for all.