As CDF-Ohio Urges Leaders to Focus More on Supporting Thriving Children, Families.
New scoring index aims to increase accountability by showing how the state’s policies, investment affect daily lives of youngest Ohioans.
COLUMBUS, OHIO—Ohio ranks 27th in child well-being, according to the 2026 KIDS COUNT Data Book, a comprehensive 50-state report developed by the Annie E. Casey Foundation analyzing how children are faring nationwide.
The latest findings highlight that while Ohio maintains its mid-tier child well-being position from previous years, there is significant room for improvement, particularly regarding child poverty, education, and health outcomes. The data show Ohio leaders must do more to address persistent disparities and invest in policies that promote the well-being of all children and young people in the state.
Read: The Annie E. Casey Foundation 2026 KIDS COUNT Data Book
This year, for the first time in the Data Book, states received a comprehensive score, from 0 to 1,000. In previous years, they only received a ranking. Ohio scored 569, above the national average of 547, with its highest score in economics and lowest score in education. This new scoring system tracks 16 indicators over a five-year period from 2019 to 2024, providing a clearer picture of whether policies and public investments are improving children’s lives or merely maintaining the status quo.
Data points of interest include:
- Ohio’s child poverty rate decreased since 2019 dropping from 18 percent to 16 percent in 2024.
- The on-time high school graduation rate improved substantially, rising from 82 percent in 2018-19 to 88 percent in 2023-2024.
- Ohio’s proficiency in 8th-grade math declined from 38 percent in 2019 to 32 percent in 2024.
- Eight percent of babies are born with low birthweight, highlighting ongoing challenges in health and safety.
“Ohio’s children deserve a future where they can thrive—this means investing in strong schools, affordable housing, accessible healthcare, and family support programs,” said CDF-Ohio State Director Dr. John Stanford. “Our current rankings reveal the urgent need for policies that reduce child poverty, improve educational outcomes, and expand health coverage. We cannot afford to wait—the futures of our children depend on it.”
The data also show that 62 percent of Ohio children are economically disadvantaged, and roughly 1.4 million children are enrolled in Medicaid, indicating ongoing efforts to support health coverage, but also highlighting areas for expansion and improvement. The percentage of children receiving SNAP benefits is 13.7 percent, emphasizing the importance of food assistance programs.
In its 37th year, the KIDS COUNT Data Book provides reliable statewide numbers to help leaders identify where progress is being made, where support is lacking, and which strategies are effective. CDF-Ohio encourages policymakers and community leaders to use this detailed information to unite across party lines and implement initiatives that invest in young people. By leveraging this data, Ohio can develop targeted solutions to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.
“Every number in this report tells a story about Ohio’s children—stories of resilience, disparities, and potential,” said CDF-Ohio Policy and Research Manager Christian Davis. “It’s time for Ohio to prioritize investments in early childhood, education, health, and family stability. Our children’s well-being should be a shared responsibility and a top priority for all policymakers.”
