Montana Ranks 30th in Most Sinful States, Greed Cited as Top Vice

WalletHub study finds Montana's 'Greed' ranking is 5th highest in the country

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A new study by the financial website WalletHub has ranked the 50 states based on their level of sinful behavior across 54 key indicators, from violent crimes to excessive drinking. Montana landed just below the halfway mark, ranking 30th overall, with its highest ranking in the 'Greed' category at 5th most sinful state.

Why it matters

The 'Sinful States' ranking provides insight into the vices and moral failings of each state, which can have broader implications for public policy, social services, and community well-being. Montana's middle-of-the-pack ranking, with a high score in 'Greed', suggests the state may need to address issues around wealth inequality, financial crimes, and overconsumption.

The details

According to the WalletHub study, Montana's total 'Vice Index Score' was 36.53 out of 100. The state's highest ranking was in the 'Greed' category, where it was the 5th 'greediest' state in the country. Montana's lowest ranking was in the 'Vanity' category, where it placed 44th. The study examined 54 key indicators of immoral or illicit behavior across the states, including violent crimes, excessive drinking, and gambling disorders.

  • The WalletHub study was conducted and published in February 2026.

The players

WalletHub

A financial website that conducted the study ranking the 50 states based on their level of sinful behavior.

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The takeaway

Montana's middle-of-the-pack ranking in the 'Sinful States' study, with a high score in 'Greed', suggests the state may need to address issues around wealth inequality, financial crimes, and overconsumption in order to improve its moral standing and the overall well-being of its residents.