Map Showing Widening Gap Between LGBTQ-Friendly States
Summary
New research shows that the gap between the most and least LGBTQ+-friendly states in the U.S. is growing. States in the Northeast offer stronger legal protections, healthcare, and workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ people, while many Southern states have fewer protections and support. Public opinion on LGBTQ+ issues has also slightly declined in recent years.Key Facts
- The 2026 State LGBTQ+ Business Climate Index ranks states based on legal protections, healthcare access, workplace inclusion, and social conditions for LGBTQ+ residents.
- Northeastern states like Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey rank highest for LGBTQ+ support.
- Southern states such as Arkansas, South Carolina, Tennessee, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Oklahoma rank lowest and have seen worsening conditions.
- The gap between the most and least LGBTQ+-friendly states is the largest recorded, showing a growing regional divide.
- Many low-ranking states lack broad support across five key areas: legal protections, youth and family support, political climate, healthcare, and workplace inclusion.
- Gallup’s 2026 survey found support for same-sex marriage dropped from 71% in 2022-2023 to 65%.
- Moral acceptance of same-sex relationships also declined, reaching its lowest point since 2016 at 62%.
- The findings point to a shrinking middle ground, with states moving toward either strong support or strong opposition to LGBTQ+ rights.
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