(The Center Square) – Minnesota ranks third nationally for workers, according to a new study.

The “Best and Worst States for Jobs” study from WalletHub looked at 34 key indicators of job-market strength and economic health, ranging from employment growth to the median annual income.

Chip Lupo, a WalletHub analyst, discussed the 2026 results with The Center Square in an exclusive interview.

“Minnesota continues to be one of the strongest states for employment, ranking third nationally for the third consecutive year,” he said. “This report helps job seekers make more informed decisions about where to build their careers by looking beyond job availability alone.”

The North Star state’s overall score improved from 60.94 to 62.50 in the past year. Only North Dakota and Nebraska ranked higher, at 62.92 and 64.24 respectively.

“Its performance is supported by the fourth-strongest economic environment, the third-highest median household income, and the 11th-highest monthly starting salary in the nation,” Lupo said. “It also offers favorable conditions for workers through strong health insurance coverage, retirement access and worker protections.”

This comes despite economic concerns in the state, particularly in the wake of Operation Metro Surge in early 2026. While Minnesota has experienced below-average employment growth, there is disagreement over what is driving the trend.

“There is an element of Metro Surge becoming a convenient excuse for the current manifestations of Minnesota’s longstanding economic ills,” said John Phelan, an economist with the Minnesota-based Center of the American Experiment.

The WalletHub report also factored in Minnesota’s increasing unemployment over the past year.

“Minnesota saw a notable increase in unemployment, from 3% to 3.9%, despite its strong overall performance,” Lupo said. “This highlights how even states with relatively healthy job markets may not provide perfect conditions.”

Pennsylvania, Oregon and West Virginia ranked at the bottom of the report. Lupo said he hopes the findings will encourage states to make meaningful changes to improve their rankings.

“Factors such as salary potential, job security, employee benefits, cost of living and working conditions all influence long-term financial stability and quality of life,” Lupo said. “It also helps highlight states where employment opportunities are improving and where workers may face greater challenges, making it a useful resource for both job seekers and employers.”