WalletHub says Alabama among worst states for working moms. Here’s why

Balancing a career and raising a family is no small task, and where you live can make a big difference in how manageable that balance feels.

For working mothers in Alabama, achieving this balance may be especially challenging. In a recent analysis by WalletHub, Alabama ranked 50th out of 51 (including Washington, D.C.) for working moms.

From childcare costs to workplace advancement, working mothers across Alabama face challenges that contribute to the state’s low national ranking.

Here’s how Alabama ranks in WalletHub’s analysis.

Working moms in Alabama are struggling

Alabama ranked 50th out of 51 states, with an overall score of 27.29 out of 100, based on assessments across several key categories affecting working mothers. 

• Childcare systems: 47th nationally.
• Professional opportunities: 49th.
• Female executive representation: 49th.
• Work-life balance: 43rd.

The state also performed poorly in the quality and availability of the daycare system, according to the report.

These rankings mirror the daily realities for many working mothers in Alabama, who weigh affordability, career growth and family care.

Limited access to high-quality childcare can make full-time employment more difficult, while fewer women in leadership roles may signal narrower career advancement paths. These challenges are especially significant for households balancing rising living costs with child-rearing responsibilities.

WalletHub expert insight

WalletHub noted that women make up nearly half of the U.S. workforce, and about 74% of mothers with children under 18 are employed, underscoring the importance of supportive workplace and childcare systems.

“The U.S. still has a lot of work to do when it comes to improving conditions for working moms, given the wage gap and the lack of representation women have in certain leadership positions,” said Chip Lupo, a WalletHub analyst.

Top states for mothers:

In contrast to Alabama’s low ranking, several states excel in support for working mothers. Here are the top 10:

1. Connecticut
2. Massachusetts
3. Rhode Island
4. New Jersey
5. Vermont
6. Maine
7. Minnesota
8. District of Columbia
9. New York
10. North Dakota

The worst states for mothers:

Notably, Alabama joins other states struggling across key measures. Here are the bottom 10:

1. Louisiana
2. Alabama
3. New Mexico
4. Mississippi
5. Nevada
6. Arizona
7. South Carolina
8. West Virginia
9. Texas
10. Idaho

WalletHub’s methodology

WalletHub’s analysis compares all 50 states and Washington, D.C., across 17 metrics in three categories—childcare, professional opportunities, and work-life balance—including childcare quality and costs, gender pay gaps, women’s leadership, parental leave policies and access to health care.

Each state was scored on a 100-point scale and ranked by overall performance across these measures.

Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter in Alabama for USA TODAY’s Deep South Connect Team. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@usatodayco.com.