Oregon ranked 23rd in overall child wellbeing, according to a new report.
Why it matters: Children's wellbeing affects future workforce participation and economic growth, and researchers warn rising costs and safety-net reductions could further strain families.
How it works: The Annie E. Casey Foundation's 2026 Kids Count Data Book measures children's wellbeing across four categories: economic wellbeing, education, health and family and community.
It examined data from 2019 through 2024 to assess the effects of safety-net investments, according to Leslie Boissiere, a spokesperson for the foundation.
By the numbers: Oregon ranked 6th in health, 10th in family and community, and 29th for economic wellbeing,
Yes, but: Our overall score was dragged down significantly by Oregon's education ranking, where we came in 44th.
The bottom line: "Research shows that kids who are healthy, safe, fed, educated and surrounded by strong family relationships have a much better chance to thrive," Boissiere said.
