Texas ranks 44th in the nation for overall child well-being, according to a new report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation that highlights persistent challenges in health care coverage and child poverty across the state.
The foundation's 2026 KIDS COUNT Data Book evaluates states using 16 indicators across four categories: economic well-being, education, health, and family and community factors. Texas ranked ahead of only Nevada, Alaska, Louisiana, New Mexico and Mississippi.
Among the report's most troubling findings for Texas was its rate of uninsured children, the highest in the nation. More than 1.1 million Texas children — nearly 14% of the state's child population — lack health insurance coverage.
The report also found Texas continues to struggle with child poverty rates that remain above the national average, contributing to the state's low overall ranking.
The KIDS COUNT Data Book, released annually by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, is widely used by policymakers and child advocacy organizations to measure how children are faring across the country. This year's report assessed states based on indicators ranging from health insurance coverage and educational achievement to family economic stability and community conditions.
Nationally, the report found mixed results for children since 2019, with improvements in some economic and family indicators offset by declines in educational outcomes and continuing health challenges.
Advocates say Texas' ranking underscores the need for greater investment in children's health care, education and economic support programs to improve outcomes for families across the state.
