Governor Cox Highlights Utah's Top Ranking on Independence Index at One Utah Summit
Governor Spencer Cox told attendees at the One Utah Summit that Utah earned the number-one spot on the Independence Index.
The index evaluates states on 29 indicators—including life expectancy, suicide rates, fertility, tax policy, educational freedom, housing affordability, employment growth, marriage rates and volunteerism—grouped into life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Utah not only topped the overall score but also led individual categories such as volunteerism, job growth, marriage rates and pursuit of happiness. Cox stressed that the achievement reflects the daily choices and character of Utahns rather than specific public policies, citing the role of “improvers” who balance optimism with a willingness to fix problems. He called for continued investment in people and places, suggesting Utah's example could benefit the broader nation. The summit runs through Thursday, gathering state, business and community leaders to discuss rural economic development.
Why it matters
Utah's cultural and civic strengths are gaining national attention, shaping discussions on economic and social policy.
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