Alabama named ‘most religious’ state in the nation

Alabama is the most religious state in the nation, according to a recent study released by SmileHub.

Alabama finished ahead of Virginia, Texas, Tennessee and North Carolina in the top five. The study ranked states on metrics such as a state’s religious interest and number of places to worship, religious education and careers, and religious-affiliated organizations.

Alabama ranked first in religious interest and number of places to worship, fifth in religious education and careers and 13th in number of religious affiliated organizations.

“To highlight the states that care the most about religion and the ones where it is less important, SmileHub compared each of the 50 states based on 11 key metrics. The data set ranges from the share of adults who consider religion very important in their lives to the places of worship per capita to the religion-related careers per capita,” the study’s authors said.

On Wednesday. Gov. Kay Ivey reacted to the study, saying it was a "blessing" to live in a faith-rich state.

"Alabama has long been a state where strong faith and community are deeply intertwined, and being named the most religious speaks to the values that lie close to our people. It’s a blessing to live where faith plays a significant role in our daily lives, guiding us in all we do," she wrote on Twitter.

Alabama has long been a state where strong faith and community are deeply intertwined, and being named the most religious speaks to the values that lie close to our people. It’s a blessing to live where faith plays a significant role in our daily lives, guiding us in all we do. pic.twitter.com/mAQVWUja4M
— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) August 7, 2024