REGIONAL— Minnesotans generally share a sense of pride about the quality of life here in the North Star state— but it turns out we’re not alone. Around the country, Minnesota is regularly recognized as one of the best states in the U.S. on a wide range of measures.

Just this past week, the state took top honors in a USA Today study on the best-run states in the country. The USA Today cites Minnesota’s strong fiscal management, low unemployment and poverty rates, above-average median household income, and the state’s nearly perfect credit rating as factors behind its decision to put Minnesota at the top of the ranking this year. Since ranking tenth in 2012, Minnesota has consistently climbed in the study’s rating, including ranking second last year.

Specifically, the study notes that Minnesota’s state government enjoys one of the largest rainy day funds in the county, along with a nearly perfect and stable credit rating from Moody’s, one of the largest rating agencies. The state enjoys one of the lowest state unemployment rates, at 3.9 percent, reasonably well-funded pensions, and a median household income of $65,599, or about $8,000 higher than the national average.

Not surprisingly, the Dayton administration was happy to take a bow, in part because the state’s gains in the ranking have all come under the current governor.

“This Administration has worked hard to make state government work better for the people of Minnesota – and we are not done yet,” said Gov. Mark Dayton. “Next session, I will urge the Legislature to work with me to protect the long-term fiscal stability of our state, which is essential for Minnesota’s future. Working together, I know we can deliver even better services, and better value, for the people of Minnesota.”

The state’s businesses have added more than 290,000 jobs since Dayton took office in 2011, and the state has made investments in education every year, something that has been a top priority of the governor. Wages also are growing in Minnesota, due in part to a minimum wage increase that Dayton championed.

While the USA Today study noted that Minnesotans pay higher state taxes than in most other states, a recent survey of Minnesotans found that nearly 60 percent of Minnesotans believe government in Minnesota is providing a good value for the taxes they pay. The same survey found that more than 80 percent of Minnesotans are optimistic about the state’s future, and a majority believe Minnesota is on the right track to address the challenges we may face in the future.

Other recent surveys have put Minnesota in a favorable light on a whole host of indicators. A CNBC survey last year ranked Minnesota number four among the best states for business. A WalletHub survey earlier this year listed Minnesota as first among the best states for women, citing their social and economic well-being, as well as health and safety. A 2016 survey by AARP found Minnesota to be the best state for retirement, citing the abundance of senior housing options and extensive senior services. An analysis by the Annie E. Casey Foundation last year, found Minnesota to be number one in a ranking of the best states for kids.