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As fireworks stands pop up across the tri-state and red, white and blue takes over bodegas and bagel shops, one question lingers: Just how patriotic is New York? Spoiler alert—per a new study, it’s not. In fact, it’s nearly dead last.
According to a new report from WalletHub that ranks all 50 states by patriotism, New York landed at an unimpressive 49th place. Only Arkansas scored lower. The study crunched data from 13 metrics, including military enlistment, veteran population, voting rates and community volunteerism. Turns out, for all our skyline views and Lady Liberty pride, New Yorkers aren’t exactly flag-waving overachievers.
Start with military service: New York has the fewest veterans per capita in the country—three times fewer than Alaska, the leader in that category. And while we may show up to protest with flair (see: anti-Trump flag art and marches in Washington Square Park), civic engagement doesn’t exactly run deep. The state ranked 44th in voter turnout for the 2024 presidential election.
Even more sobering: New York came in last in voter turnout and near the bottom in overall civic engagement, a category that includes volunteering and jury service. While places like Virginia (No. 1 overall) and Montana (No. 2) boasted high civic participation and, in Virginia’s case, strong military ties as well, New York lagged behind across the board.
Virginia, in particular, earned its top spot thanks to a potent combo of military infrastructure (hello, Pentagon) and strong voter turnout. WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo told the New York Post: “Virginians love to think that they’re basically the bedrock of the country as we know it.”
Back in New York, some might argue patriotism here just looks a little different. Maybe it’s less about uniforms and ballots and more about rallying in the streets, fighting for civil rights or keeping the wheels of American culture turning.
Still, with July 4th on the horizon, WalletHub’s list is a reminder that patriotism isn’t just about popping sparklers and queuing up Springsteen. It's about service, engagement and showing up for your community.
While the rest of the country salutes Old Glory this week, New Yorkers might want to consider a little extra effort—at the polls, in the neighborhood or, yes, even at the ballot box next time around.
Until then, pass the hot dogs and enjoy the fireworks. Just maybe hold the lectures on American pride.