Methodology

Move.org analyzed the best and worst states to live for LGBTQ+ couples and families. We decided to consider the safety of LGBTQ+ individuals first and foremost, so we ranked whether the state had hate crime laws in place, whether or not conversion therapy was allowed for minors, and whether anti-discrimination laws were set. We also looked at each state’s LGBT population to get a better picture of each area’s LGBTQ+ community.

Additionally, we looked at overall equality by state, the number of pride centers in a state, the number of LGBTQ+ friendly businesses, and the number of same-sex couples. We thought it was most important to consider safety because, although you can enjoy living somewhere, the law may not protect you from being targeted. So for this study, safety laws came first, and community came second.