Let’s face it—when the zombie apocalypse hits, not all states are created equal. Some places offer endless wilderness and natural defenses, while others are basically all-you-can-eat buffets for the undead. If you’re in one of these unfortunate locations, you might want to start packing your bags now. Here’s a ranked list of the worst places to be when the world goes full horror movie—good luck, and try not to get bitten!
50. Rhode Island: The Zombie’s All-You-Can-Eat Buffet
Rhode Island is a tiny, overstuffed buffet for zombies, with nowhere to hide. If you don’t have an escape plan, you’re already on the menu.
Surrounded by water, escaping is a joke unless you own a boat. Even then, floating zombies might just turn you into seafood-flavored prey.
With no vast wilderness or farmland to retreat to, survival is a long shot. Unless you have a helicopter, you’re pretty much doomed.
49. New Jersey: Where Zombies and Traffic Jams Collide
If the traffic doesn’t trap you, the zombies will. With a dense population and endless sprawl, the undead have plenty of fresh victims and zero road rage.
Escaping through the Turnpike is a lost cause. You’ll be stuck in gridlock, honking at a zombie in a minivan, waiting for the inevitable bite.
Even rural escapes are limited, and nearby states aren’t much better. Whether in a city or suburb, you’re in for an apocalypse with extra congestion and tolls.
48. Connecticut: Picturesque Scenery, Perilous Survival
Connecticut’s postcard-worthy charm doesn’t help when zombies show up. Small rural areas and a high population mean you’re more likely to be trapped than safe.
There’s nowhere to truly hide, as even the scenic countryside won’t keep the undead away. It’s survival of the fittest, and zombies don’t need cardio.
Every quaint town becomes a zombie’s hunting ground, leaving little room to escape. Unless you enjoy a high-stakes game of tag, look elsewhere to survive.
47. Massachusetts: Harvard Can’t Save You Now
Massachusetts may have the country’s brightest minds, but degrees won’t outsmart a zombie swarm. With dense cities and minimal farmland, survival isn’t looking good.
Boston’s crowded streets will be a nightmare, and suburban sprawl won’t offer much better. Unless zombies start respecting academic achievements, you’re out of luck.
The countryside is limited, and the coast won’t offer a safe retreat. Unless you know how to pilot a boat, you might as well stay put.
46. New York: The City That Never Sleeps… Because of Zombies
New York’s massive population ensures an instant zombie takeover. With nowhere to hide and millions of infected, the apocalypse will hit harder than a Times Square rush hour.
Upstate might seem safer, but its towns will fall fast. Once major cities collapse, the undead will spread everywhere, and hiding in the Catskills won’t help.
The subway? Overrun. Bridges? Jammed. Escape? Unlikely. Unless you plan on swimming to Canada, New York is officially a zombie feeding ground.
45. Florida: Sunshine, Beaches, and Brain-Eaters
Warm weather won’t slow zombies down, and Florida’s elderly population means plenty of easy meals. The undead will outnumber alligators, and that’s saying something.
Tourist-heavy areas will collapse instantly, leaving you stuck in a sunbaked nightmare. Disney World might become an undead kingdom, and even the swamps won’t be safe.
With hurricanes, humidity, and a million zombies, survival odds are low. Your best bet? Befriend an alligator and hope it’s hungry for zombies, not you.
44. Pennsylvania: From Steel City to Zombie Central
Philadelphia and Pittsburgh will be zombie-packed in no time. With dense urban areas and a ton of people, there’s no easy escape from the chaos.
Rural Amish communities might have a chance, but for city dwellers, things will go downhill fast. Rocky terrain won’t help when you’re outnumbered ten to one.
With nowhere to go and cities falling instantly, Pennsylvania will become an undead wasteland. The Liberty Bell might ring one last time before the apocalypse claims it.
43. Illinois: Chicago Deep Dish… and Deep Trouble
Chicago’s towering skyline won’t protect you. With too many people and not enough exits, the city will become a giant zombie buffet in record time.
Even outside the city, there aren’t many safe zones. The state’s flat terrain and scattered small towns won’t provide much cover when things get bad.
Illinois is a mixed bag—lots of people, limited hiding spots, and an inevitable disaster. The only deep dish you’ll be thinking about is the one zombies are feasting on.
42. Ohio: The Heart of It All… Including Zombies
Ohio has major cities, meaning plenty of future zombies. Flat terrain gives you nowhere to hide, turning the entire state into one big undead meet-and-greet.
With few natural defenses and way too many highways, Ohio is a nightmare for survivors. Even rural areas won’t stay safe for long.
Once cities like Cleveland and Columbus collapse, zombies will spread fast. The only thing scarier than Ohio’s sports rivalries is its inevitable undead apocalypse.
41. California: Surf’s Up, Zombies!
California’s huge cities ensure an apocalypse disaster. Los Angeles alone has millions of people, and it only takes one infected influencer to spread chaos statewide.
Military bases might help, but first, you have to get past miles of traffic. Highways will be useless, so unless you have a jetpack, good luck.
The beaches won’t save you, and the mountains won’t hide you forever. Unless you already live off-grid, California’s zombie future isn’t looking too sunny.
40. Texas: Bigger Isn’t Always Better
Texas has plenty of guns and tough survivors, but its massive cities will be a problem. Urban areas will turn into zombie-packed war zones almost instantly.
While rural Texas offers some hope, getting there won’t be easy. With highways clogged and gas running low, most people won’t make it out alive.
The good news? There’s plenty of land. The bad news? The zombie herds will be Texas-sized, and they won’t respect your property line.
39. Georgia: Peaches and Peril
Atlanta’s dense population means an immediate outbreak. With crowded streets and limited escape routes, the undead will be swarming like it’s rush hour, but worse.
Rural areas offer some safety, but the heat and humidity will wear down survivors fast. Zombies don’t sweat, but you sure will.
Between the climate, overpopulation, and limited escape options, Georgia is a dangerous place. If the apocalypse doesn’t get you, the mosquitoes probably will.
38. Michigan: Great Lakes, Greater Risks
Detroit and other big cities will fall fast, turning Michigan into a zombie-infested mess. The undead won’t care about the state’s industrial history—just your brains.
The Great Lakes might seem like an escape route, but good luck finding a boat. Zombies can’t swim, but they sure can float ominously.
Winters might slow zombies down, but they’ll also test human endurance. If frostbite doesn’t take you out, the undead definitely will.
37. North Carolina: Southern Charm Meets Northern Zombies
North Carolina has growing cities, meaning more zombies per square mile. Urban areas will turn into disaster zones faster than you can say “bless your heart.”
The coast might look like an escape, but don’t get too excited. The beaches will be packed—with zombies, not tourists.
With a mix of cities and rural areas, survival depends on location. If you’re near a city, you’re in trouble. If not, good luck staying hidden.
36. Virginia: Historic Battlefields and New Wars
Virginia’s cities will collapse fast, leaving survivors scrambling for safety. High population density means an outbreak will spread like wildfire, and there’s no putting it out.
The Appalachian Mountains might offer refuge, but not everyone can get there in time. Traffic jams and panicked crowds won’t make it easy.
Virginia is a gamble—cities are doomed, and the countryside is hit or miss. Unless you already live in the mountains, survival won’t be easy.
35. South Carolina: Hospitality Ends Here
South Carolina’s charm won’t help when zombies show up. Cities will fall immediately, and panic will spread faster than news of a hurricane.
The rural areas might offer temporary safety, but they’re not a long-term solution. Supplies will run out, and zombies never take vacations.
Between high humidity, dangerous cities, and limited escape options, survival is a long shot. Hope you like running in the heat.
34. Maryland: Crabs, Charm, and Catastrophe
Maryland is too close to Washington, D.C., making it an instant danger zone. A high population means an immediate outbreak with nowhere to run.
With limited rural areas and water on all sides, escape is nearly impossible. Unless you’re a boat-owning survivalist, you’re stuck.
Even the famous crab feasts won’t save you. Maryland is a prime spot for an apocalypse, and not in a good way.
33. Missouri: Gateway to the West… and the Undead
St. Louis and Kansas City are major zombie hotspots waiting to happen. These cities will fall fast, turning Missouri into a disaster zone.
The Ozarks might provide some safety, but that’s a big “if.” Getting there won’t be easy with roads packed and panic everywhere.
With a mix of urban chaos and rural hope, Missouri is a gamble. If you’re not already prepped, you’re probably not making it.
32. Tennessee: Country Roads and Zombie Loads
Nashville’s music scene won’t drown out zombie groans. Crowded cities mean high infection rates, and getting out before the chaos hits is wishful thinking.
The Smoky Mountains could provide some refuge, but reaching them in a crisis is easier said than done. Zombies don’t respect scenic beauty.
Tennessee’s survival chances depend on location. Urban areas are doomed, and the countryside might hold, but only if you’re already well-stocked.
31. Kentucky: Bourbon Won’t Save You
Kentucky’s cities will be overrun in no time. With limited escape routes and high population densities, things will get ugly fast.
The Appalachian region offers a glimmer of hope. If you can reach it before the roads are clogged with panicked survivors, you might stand a chance.
Bourbon won’t keep zombies away, but at least Kentucky has a fighting chance. If you’re lucky, you’ll make it to the hills before disaster strikes.
29. Indiana: Crossroads of America… and Zombies
Indianapolis and other cities will become instant zombie zones. With dense populations and limited escape routes, getting out before the outbreak spreads is wishful thinking.
Farmlands might offer some safety, but that’s assuming you already have supplies. Running out of food in the middle of nowhere won’t end well.
With cities doomed and rural survival requiring serious preparation, Indiana is a risky bet. If you’re not already stocked up, you won’t last long.
28. Louisiana: Jazz, Jambalaya, and Jump-Scare Zombies
New Orleans will fall fast, with its tight quarters and high population. Zombies won’t even need to hunt—people will be cornered on every street.
The swamps could offer some hiding spots, but they come with their own dangers. If the gators don’t get you, the environment will.
Between waterlogged streets and zombie-filled cities, Louisiana is a survival nightmare. Unless you’re already living off-grid in the bayou, you’re out of luck.
27. Minnesota: The Land of 10,000 Frozen Zombies
Winters might slow zombies down, but they’ll also test survivors. If frostbite doesn’t take you out, the undead will be waiting when spring arrives.
Minneapolis and St. Paul will fall fast, leaving the rest of the state vulnerable. The farther north you go, the fewer people—and zombies—you’ll find.
Minnesota’s survival depends on endurance. If you can handle extreme cold and isolation, you might last longer. Otherwise, it’s only a matter of time.
26. Alabama: Sweet Home… Until the Zombies Arrive
Alabama’s mix of cities and countryside means survival depends on location. Birmingham and other urban areas will become instant zombie hotspots.
The state’s rural regions offer some hope, but supplies won’t last forever. If you’re not already prepared, you’ll be scrambling for resources fast.
With plenty of weapons and survival know-how, Alabama has a fighting chance. Still, if you’re stuck in a city when the outbreak hits, good luck.
25. Washington: Rain, Coffee, and the Walking Dead
Seattle’s dense population means an outbreak will spread fast. If you thought the traffic was bad before, wait until zombies start clogging the streets.
Head east, and survival chances improve. Mountains and forests provide good hiding spots—if you don’t mind constant rain and the occasional Bigfoot sighting.
Washington’s survival chances depend on getting out early. If you’re not already in the wilderness, you might be stuck with the undead.
24. Colorado: High Altitude, Higher Survival Chances
Denver will fall fast, but Colorado’s rugged terrain could be an advantage. If you’re fit enough to hike for miles, survival is possible.
Mountain towns provide natural fortifications, but reaching them won’t be easy. If you don’t already have a plan, you’re in trouble.
Colorado’s biggest strength? Its geography. If you can make it to the high-altitude areas, zombies won’t follow. But if you’re stuck in a city, you’re done.
23. Arkansas: The Natural State of Survival
Arkansas has low population density and plenty of wilderness, making it a solid survival spot. Zombies can’t overrun a place that barely has people.
The Ozarks offer natural defenses, but supplies will be an issue. If you don’t already live off the land, things could get rough.
Some locals have been preparing for years. If you’re lucky enough to join them, Arkansas might be one of the safer places to be.
22. West Virginia: Take Me Home, Country Roads (Far from Zombies)
With its mountains and low population, West Virginia is a prime survival spot. Zombies don’t climb well, making higher elevations safer.
The downside? Infrastructure is lacking, meaning supplies could be hard to find. If you’re not self-sufficient, survival will be a challenge.
Overall, West Virginia is one of the better bets. Just don’t expect modern conveniences—this is real-deal, backwoods apocalypse survival.
21. Oklahoma: Tornadoes and the Undead
Oklahoma’s wide-open spaces mean fewer places for zombies to hide, but also fewer places for survivors to find shelter. The apocalypse isn’t kind to storm chasers.
Gun-friendly culture might give survivors a fighting chance, but cities like Tulsa and OKC will still fall fast. Getting out early is key.
Tornadoes are already a problem—now imagine one full of zombies. If that sounds like a bad movie, welcome to post-apocalyptic Oklahoma.
20. North Dakota: Cold, Isolated, and Probably Fine
With almost no people, North Dakota is one of the safest places to be. Zombies need victims, and there just aren’t enough of them here.
Winters will slow the undead, but they’ll also make survival harder. If you can handle the freezing cold, you might have a shot.
As long as you can stay warm and stocked up, North Dakota is one of the best places to ride out the apocalypse.
19. South Dakota: Like North Dakota, But Slightly Worse
South Dakota has a low population, which helps, but cities like Sioux Falls could still become overrun. The undead love a crowded food court.
The open plains provide visibility but little shelter. If you’re not already stocked with supplies, finding food and water could be tough.
Overall, South Dakota is a decent survival spot—just make sure you’re prepared for long winters, empty roads, and way too much corn.
18.Montana: Big Sky, Small Zombie Population
Montana’s vast landscapes and low population make it a solid choice. Zombies can’t chase you if there’s nobody around to turn them.
The downside? Isolation. If you need supplies, you’ll have to travel far. And in the apocalypse, a simple grocery run is life-threatening.
If you like peace, quiet, and fending off occasional bears, Montana might be the safest bet. Just make sure you know how to hunt.
17. Idaho: Potatoes and Protection
Idaho’s rural setting makes it a great place to survive. Plenty of farmland, few people, and lots of hiding spots—zombies won’t last long here.
The biggest downside? Isolation. If the undead don’t get you, boredom might. Hope you enjoy potatoes, because that’s your new diet.
With solid survival potential, Idaho is a top-tier apocalypse refuge. Just don’t go running into a bunker without a good stockpile of seasoning.
16. Nebraska: Cornfields and Containment
Nebraska has wide-open spaces and a low population, making it a good spot for survival. Fewer people mean fewer zombies.
However, the endless cornfields are a double-edged sword. Great for hiding, but easy to get lost—and zombies love a good maze.
If you’re ready for isolation and can live off the land, Nebraska is a strong choice. Just hope you don’t take a wrong turn.
15. Maine: Lobsters, Lighthouses, and Longevity
Maine’s rugged coastline and remote forests make it a good escape. Small towns mean fewer zombies, and the ocean provides a possible exit strategy.
Cold winters could slow the undead, but they’ll also make survival harder. If you don’t already love seafood, now’s the time to start.
With isolation, natural barriers, and fresh seafood, Maine offers solid survival chances. Just avoid the cities, and don’t trust any zombie fishermen.
14. Wyoming: No People, No Problems
Wyoming’s biggest advantage? Almost nobody lives there. With vast wilderness and few urban areas, the zombie outbreak will barely make a dent.
The downside? Extreme isolation. If you need supplies, you’re out of luck. But at least you won’t be fighting off hordes of the undead.
For those who love wide-open spaces and total self-sufficiency, Wyoming is a top-tier apocalypse hideout. Just don’t expect much company.
13. Vermont: Maple Syrup and Safety
Vermont’s small towns and dense forests make it a great place to escape. Fewer people mean fewer zombies—plus, plenty of trees for hiding.
The downside? Harsh winters and limited resources. If you don’t already have a survival plan, things could get rough fast.
With good isolation and a self-sufficient mindset, Vermont is a solid choice. Plus, zombies probably won’t develop a taste for maple syrup.
12. New Hampshire: “Live Free or Die” Takes on a New Meaning
New Hampshire’s motto fits perfectly for a zombie apocalypse. The state’s rural areas and tough residents mean survival chances are better than most.
However, winter will be brutal, and supplies won’t be easy to find. If you don’t have a plan, you’ll be in trouble fast.
For the prepared, New Hampshire is a solid choice. Just don’t expect many luxuries—this is survival, not a weekend camping trip.
11. Alaska: Ice Cold and Zombie-Free
Alaska is one of the safest places to survive. Fewer people means fewer zombies, and the cold will slow any undead that do show up.
The problem? Surviving the cold yourself. If you’re not ready for subzero temperatures and scarce resources, the environment might get you before the zombies do.
For experienced survivalists, Alaska is a dream. Just make sure you don’t run out of food—because zombies aren’t the only hungry things out there.
10. Utah: Mountains, Mormons, and Minimal Zombie Threats
Utah’s rugged terrain makes it tough for zombies to navigate. If you can get to higher ground, you’re in a solid spot.
The state’s preparedness culture gives it an edge. Many residents are already stocked up, meaning fewer desperate survivors competing for resources.
With natural barriers and strong survival instincts, Utah ranks high. Zombies aren’t great at hiking, but you’d better be.
9. Hawaii: Paradise… If You Can Get There
Hawaii is a great place to survive—if you’re already there. The ocean acts as a natural barrier, keeping zombies out.
The real challenge? Resources. Islands rely on imports, and once supply chains break down, things could get ugly fast.
If you have a steady food supply, Hawaii is one of the safest places to be. Just don’t expect Amazon Prime deliveries anymore.
8. Oregon: Forests, Farms, and Few Zombies
Oregon’s rural areas make it a solid survival spot. The forests provide plenty of cover, and small towns mean fewer zombies.
The downside? The Portland area will fall quickly, and good luck finding supplies once the outbreak spreads.
With a little planning and a love for the outdoors, Oregon could be a great refuge. Just don’t let the hipsters convince you to “coexist” with zombies.
7. Mississippi: Slow-Paced Life, Slow-Moving Zombies
Mississippi’s rural setting gives it a decent survival ranking. Fewer people mean fewer zombies, and the climate could speed up undead decay.
The downside? Limited infrastructure and resources. If you don’t already have a plan, things could go south quickly.
For those prepared to live off the land, Mississippi isn’t a bad choice. Just be ready for hot summers and long stretches of nothing.
6. Kansas: Flat, Boring, and Safe
Kansas isn’t the most exciting state, but it’s actually a great survival spot. Wide-open spaces mean zombies are easy to spot from a distance.
The downside? Not much in terms of natural defenses. If you don’t have a safe shelter, you could be in trouble when supplies run low.
If you don’t mind the isolation, Kansas is a solid choice. Just hope you like wheat, because that might be all you eat.
5. Nevada: Deserted and Difficult for Zombies
Nevada’s harsh desert environment is great for survival. Zombies don’t do well in extreme heat, and there aren’t many people to turn.
The problem? Surviving in the desert yourself. If you don’t have water and supplies, the environment will be deadlier than the undead.
For those who can handle the heat, Nevada is a decent bet. Just don’t get stuck in Las Vegas when the outbreak starts.
4. Arizona: Heat, Hills, and Minimal Zombie Issues
Arizona’s dry climate is great for slowing zombie decay. The desert and rugged terrain also make it tough for the undead to spread.
The downside? Water is limited, and if you’re not near a good supply, things could go south fast.
With a solid survival plan, Arizona is a great choice. Just make sure you’re better at dealing with the heat than the zombies are.
3. Kentucky: Bourbon, Horses, and Hiding Spots
Kentucky’s rural areas and self-sufficient culture make it a decent survival spot. Fewer people mean fewer zombies, and there’s land to farm.
The problem? Cities will still fall fast, and reaching the countryside might be a challenge. Plan your escape early.
If you can make it to the hills, Kentucky offers solid survival chances. Plus, bourbon might be useful for bartering—or just coping.
2. Wisconsin: Cheese, Cold, and Chances of Survival
Wisconsin’s combination of farmland and forests makes it a strong survival location. Plus, zombies probably won’t fight you for cheese curds.
Harsh winters will slow zombies, but they’ll also test survivors. If you’re not prepared for the cold, it’ll be a rough time.
With good resources and plenty of space, Wisconsin is a solid bet. Just don’t expect the Packers to play any more seasons.
1. Missouri: The Ultimate Middle-of-Nowhere Hideout
Missouri offers a balance of rural safety and survival-minded residents. The Ozarks provide natural defenses for those who can reach them.
The downside? Cities will fall fast, and highways will be packed. If you’re not already prepped, you’re in trouble.
Missouri offers strong survival odds for those with a plan. Just don’t expect an easy escape from urban areas.