2025 Kids Count Data Book says Indiana improving in child well-being
Indiana ranks 25th in child well-being, according to the 2025 Kids Count Data Book, which was publicly released today (June 9).
That publication is a 50-state report of recent data developed by the Annie E. Casey Foundation analyzing how kids are faring in post-pandemic America. In the Hoosier State, the Indiana Youth Institute leads data collection and analysis for the report.
Every year, the report presents national and state data from 16 indicators across four domains—Economic Well-Being, Education, Health, and Family & Community factors. It ranks the states according to how children are faring overall.
This year, compared to other states, Indiana ranks 25th overall, compared to Indiana's 2024 overall well-being rank of 27.
'This year's Kids Count rankings reflect encouraging momentum. Indiana rose to 11th in both Economic Well-Being and Education—our highest rankings in these indicators in over a decade—demonstrating that investments in children and families make a meaningful impact,' Tami Silverman, President and CEO of Indiana Youth Institute," said in a news release.
'We know what kids need to grow up healthy and connected so they can thrive as adults: stable homes, strong schools, nutritious food, meaningful relationships, and opportunities to learn, play, and grow." Silverman said. Programs that meet these needs are smart investments, fostering long-term gains like workforce development and economic growth.'
In the categories, the report found:
• Economic Well-Being: Ranking of 11 ranking is up from 15th last year
• Education: Ranking of 11 is up from 17 last year.
• Health: Ranking of 30 is up from 32nd last year.
• Family and Community: Ranking of 31 is unchanged from last year.
'When Indiana's kids and families thrive, our entire state moves forward,' said Silverman. 'These rankings are a reminder that while we're seeing real gains in key areas, we must continue to focus on what works—ensuring that every child and every family has the support they need to grow, contribute, and thrive.'
The 2025 Kids Count Data Book is available at www.aecf.org/databook.
For a more thorough description of the Kids County index, visit www.aecf.org/resources/the-new-kids-count-index.
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