The measurement of prosperity is an important task for all leaders, and for those who hold them to account. It is the real test of whether a nation, state, or community is truly fulfilling the potential of its people, creating an environment where a person can reach their full potential and achieve their dream.

Drawing upon the Legatum Institute’s expertise of producing the global Prosperity Index for 15 years, and informed by the expertise of more than 40 U.S. advisors from across academia, research institutions, and think tanks, 230  indicators are created from more than 90 data sources to construct the Index, to best measure the 49 elements as detailed in the infographic below, which was first released in 2019.

The comprehensive set of curated indicators, at the state and county levels, forms a rich and policy-focused dataset, allowing the potential of all states (and all counties in 18 selected states) to be identified and understood. This enables much more targeted policy responses that can drive tangible improvements in prosperity.

The Index is intended for national, state, and local governments, business leaders, investors, philanthropists, and civil society leaders across the U.S. who can use the Index to help set their agendas for growth and development, and that others will use it to hold them to account.