A list of U.S. states that rank high for LGBTQ rights


Deciding which state to live and where to start your life in the U.S. is an important question for every new immigrant. For LGBTQ immigrants, this question may feel even more complex. Navigating safety concerns, gaining access to comprehensive healthcare, and ensuring a welcoming environment are likely all top of mind when choosing a new place to call home. Below is a list of U.S. states which rank highly for LGBTQ rights:

1. California & Vermont

Safety Index Score: 100

Positives for California:

Provides protections to an LGBTQ family and more adoption opportunities

Labor protection for LGBTQ individuals

Negative for California:

Higher average for hate crimes

Positives for Vermont:

Labor protection for LGBTQ individuals

Comprehensive LGBTQ healthcare

Negative for Vermont:

Higher average for hate crimes

2. Maryland

Safety Index Score: 97

Positives for Maryland:

Lower average for Hate Crimes

Anti-discrimination in Maryland schools

Negative for Maryland:

Lack of comprehensive LGBTQ healthcare for trans people

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3. Washington

Safety Index Score: 94

Positives for Washington:

LGBTQ public accommodations

Anti-discrimination in Washington schools

Negative for Washington:

Lack of alternative protections for couples not married

4. Illinois & Oregon

Safety Index Score: 92

Positives for Illinois:

Lower average for hate crimes

Labor protection for LGBTQ individuals

Negative for Illinois:

Lack of comprehensive LGBTQ healthcare for trans people

Positives for Oregon:

LGBTQ public accommodations

Labor protection for LGBTQ individuals

Negative for Oregon:

Higher average for hate crimes

Disclaimer: The contents of this post were accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publishing. Immigration is constantly changing, and old information often becomes outdated, including procedures, timelines, prices, and more. Take note of the publish date. For archival purposes, these posts will remain published, even if new information renders them obsolete. Do not make important life decisions based on this content. No part of this post should be considered legal advice, as RapidVisa is not a law firm. This content is provided free of charge for informational purposes only. If anything herein conflicts with an official government website, the official government website shall prevail.

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