Here's Which States Offer Women The Most Equality

Gender parity in the workplace may still be a long way off, but in some states women's voices are louder than elsewhere.

Maryland is the most gender-equal state in the U.S., with Vermont second and Minnesota, Connecticut and Hawaii rounding out the top five, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The ranking is based on the female-versus-male pay ratio, women's labor participation rates, college degree holders, health coverage and poverty levels.

For women in Oklahoma, Mississippi and Louisiana, the picture is bleakest.