Overall Ranking: #25th Happiest
Arizona’s warm climate and wealth of natural wonders promote outdoor fun and physical wellness, and it has an “Emotional & Physical Well-Being” rank of 26. The Grand Canyon state is chock-full of activities to keep its residents content. With nearly 300 days of sunshine per year, the state is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Arizona ranks well in “Community & Environment” at 14 out of 50. Though at opposite ends of this list, Arizona ranks better in “Work Environment” than New Jersey, which is #3 on the list.
Overall Ranking: #24th Happiest
North Carolina is the 24th happiest state. With mild temperatures and beautiful beaches, it has a lot to offer. It ranks 25th for “Work Environment” and 17th for “Emotional & Physical Well-Being.” The state also boasts a diverse economy, with a strong job market in technology, healthcare, and agriculture industries.
Though North Carolina is just a hop, skip, and jump away from South Carolina, the state has more people, higher taxes, and a higher cost of living. It could rank closer to its sister state if its “Community & Environment” ranking weren’t at 37, dragging the state lower.
Overall Ranking: #23rd Happiest
Mental health has been front and center everywhere you look. It’s always trending on social media, being covered by news outlets, and focused on in scientific studies. If you struggle with mental health, move to New York. New York state has the lowest depression rate and the second-lowest suicide rate in the country. Just being around healthy, happy people will help!
New York's overall score is in the upper 25 of happy states because it ranks so well for "Emotional & Physical Well-Being." However, the state ranks fairly poorly in the "Work Environment" and "Community & Environment" metrics. In each of those areas, New York comes in at 42nd and 46th out of 50, respectively.
Overall Ranking: #22nd Happiest
Ah, Pennsylvania. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and cheesesteaks, it’s hard not to love this state. Not only is it considered America’s birthplace, but it has also raised some of the most iconic people in the world, from Benjamin Franklin and Grace Kelly to Taylor Swift. There must be something in the water!
The state ranks best in “Work Environment” and “Emotional & Physical Wellbeing.” It has a 29 in “Community & Environment,” but overall, the state is doing well, considering its age.
Overall Ranking: #21st Happiest
If you’re sick of your current life, move to Wisconsin. Yes, we know that’s a curveball, but trust us. The people there really love their jobs. They commute less, have better health care, and they’re known for beer and cheese. What more could you ask for?
Their high point is their "Work Environment," and their low point is "Community & Environment." Landing in the middle is “Emotional & Physical Wellbeing,” at 21 (Who can blame them? Have you tried cheese curds?).
Overall Ranking: #20th Happiest
Georgia is a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to happiness. It ranks 35th in “Work Environment,” which may not be surprising given its high traffic and long commute times.
However, it makes up for this with strong showings in “Emotional & Physical Wellbeing” (ranked 18th) and “Work Environment” (ranked 20th). This balance between work and personal life may contribute to its overall ranking as the 20th happiest state.
Overall Ranking: #19th Happiest
Sure, nobody ever thinks they want to move to Iowa, but nobody wants to leave it either. Iowans love their culture. They’ve got better corn mazes, sports, and burgers than anywhere in the country. It’s a hidden paradise worth spending time in… if you can make it through all the corn.
Iowa cracks the top 20 for "Emotional & Physical Well-Being" and just misses out on top 10 for "Community & Environment," where they rank at 11. They could improve on "Work Environment," though, where they come in at 30.
Overall Ranking: #18th Happiest
When looking for the happiest places to live in America, Kansas may not be the first place that comes to mind, but residents are clearly content with their lives! Known for its vast prairies and rolling wheat fields, Kansas offers a peaceful and serene environment.
The state ranks well in "Work Environment," at 10th place. However, it falls short in "Community & Environment," ranking 32nd. Despite this, Kansas still manages to secure a spot in the top 20 thanks to its strong showing in "Emotional & Physical Well-Being." So, if you're looking for a calm and stable lifestyle, consider making Kansas your new home!
Overall Ranking: #17th Happiest
Known for its bustling city life in Chicago and stunning natural areas, like Starved Rock State Park, Illinois offers a diverse range of experiences for residents. In "Community & Environment," it comes in at 39th place, and in “Work Environment,” it comes in at 34th place.
Despite these low rankings, Illinois still secures a spot in the top 20 thanks to its strong showing in "Emotional & Physical Well-Being,” in 8th place. In fact, it’s one of the top 5 least depressed states in the nation! Whether you prefer city living or spending time outdoors, Illinois has something to offer for everyone.
Overall Ranking: #16th Happiest
You want your kids to be healthy, right? Virginians sure do! They’re making sure to serve healthier food in schools. They’re teaching kids about mental health. They’re giving money to non-profits focused on getting your kids up and moving. There’s no better place for your kids to be.
Virginia's best-performing metric is "Emotional & Physical Well-Being." The state has a high proportion of physically active residents who feel like they have a "purpose" in life and low levels of reported depression. Virginia also ranks in the top half of states for the "Work Environment" metric.
Overall Ranking: #15th Happiest
New Hampshire may be small in size, but it packs a big punch when it comes to keeping its residents happy and healthy. With an overall ranking of #15th happiest, this state has much to offer, including safety—the state is the third safest in the nation!
One key factor contributing to New Hampshire's high ranking is its focus on promoting physical and emotional well-being. The state has implemented programs aimed at reducing obesity rates and encouraging residents to lead active lifestyles.
Overall Ranking: #14th Happiest
Known as a popular retirement and vacation destination, Florida is also home to many young families and professionals. The state's overall ranking of #14th happiest can be attributed to its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and diverse population.
Despite its good ranking, Florida is among the top five worst states for safety, divorce, and volunteering. It ranks well in “Emotional & Physical Well-being” and “Work Environment," but is almost dead last in “Community & Environment.”
Overall Ranking: #13th Happiest
Who wouldn’t be happy living in the Golden State? California’s beaches are sure to cheer anyone up. The perfect weather will bring a smile to your face every day. Really, the only downsides are traffic and rent!
California's top-performing metric is "Emotional & Physical Well-Being," where it ranks 9th in the nation. It ranks 13th in "Community & Environment," but its 45th place in "Work Environment" drags its happiness ranking down, down, down.
Overall Ranking: #12th Happiest
Most people may joke that there’s not much to do in South Dakota. It’s okay. South Dakotans do too! That’s why they sleep so much. (We’re not joking.) They’re ranked as the state with the best quality of sleep. Sure, being a sleepy state may not sound too appealing, but for South Dakotans, it makes them one of the happiest states!
South Dakota ranks well across the board. Its best-ranking metric is "Work Environment," where it is 12th in the country. It is also 13th and 19th in the nation for "Community & Environment" and "Emotional & Physical Well-Being," respectively.
Overall Ranking: #11th Happiest
South Carolina is known for its beautiful beaches and warm weather, making it a popular vacation destination. But for those who call South Carolina home, it's more than just a vacation spot - it's where they find happiness.
South Carolina shines in every category. The state ranks 15th in "Emotional & Physical Well-Being," showing that residents prioritize their health and fitness. With all the natural beauty surrounding them, it's no surprise that South Carolinians rank 10th in “Community & Environment.”
Overall Ranking: #10th Happiest
Massachusetts may be known for its cold winters, but it's actually one of the happiest states in the country. The state ranks in the top five best in regards to lowest suicide rates, contributing to its #4 “Emotional and Physical Well-Being” score, and fewest work hours, which explains its 5th place in “Work Environment.”
The Bay State has a lot to brag about, especially being the 5th safest state in the nation! The only thing that brings their score down is their “Community & Environment” rating, at 45 out of 50.
Overall Ranking: #9th Happiest
Nebraska may not have people falling over themselves to move in, but they’re perfectly content with who they are. They’re not looking for new jobs, as evidenced by how good their long-term employment rates are. In fact, they’re so happy that they want to share it with the world. They’ve got some of the best volunteer rates in the country!
Nebraska has the #11 spot for "Emotional & Physical Well-Being," as well as a top 10 ranking for "Work Environment." However, it slips just below average for the "Community & Environment" ranking.
Overall Ranking: #8th Happiest
The Gem State really is a rich find. There’s no other state where people love their neighbors, coworkers, and fellow Little League parents more. It’s the type of place you’ll never feel alone in.
Idaho leads the country when it comes to "Community & Environment" and is #3 for "Work Environment." Idaho fosters a strong sense of inclusion and shared values that clearly make its residents content.
Overall Ranking: #7th Happiest
Food makes people happy, so it makes sense that the people of Connecticut are some of the happiest you’ll find. They’ve got better seafood and beer than anywhere else in the nation. The only real problem is how many boaters there are, but hey, the boaters spend all their time at sea. You won’t have to worry about them on the weekends!
Connecticut's best metric ranking is in "Emotional & Physical Well-Being," where they come in at #6. They are also in the top quarter of states for the "Work Environment" ranking. However, the Constitution State doesn't rank so well in the community and environment area.
Overall Ranking: #6th Happiest
There are few states that are more emotionally and physically healthy than Minnesota. Minnesotans take great care of themselves, leading long and healthy lives. It’s no wonder they made this list!
Minnesota is the other state that ranks in the top 10 for two ranking metrics. Its best-performing metric is "Community & Environment," where it ranks #8 in the country. It is 4th and 12th for "Work Environment" and "Emotional & Physical Well-Being," respectively.
Overall Ranking: #5th Happiest
Delaware is the 5th-happiest state to live in, with strong performances across all metrics. The state has a high "Work Environment" ranking at #4 and also ranks in the top 20 for both "Emotional & Physical Well-Being" and "Community & Environment." This shows that the people of Delaware have a good work-life balance and are generally content with their surroundings.
Delaware is known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, which may contribute to its residents' positive emotional well-being. With a lower living cost than neighboring states like New York and Pennsylvania, Delaware offers a good quality of life without breaking the bank.
Overall Ranking: #4th Happiest
If there is one state everybody seems to gang up on, it’s Utah. Ironically, it’s arguably the best place to live in the nation. It has an unrivaled list of great qualities that put it in the “Top 5 Best States,” including safety, low divorce rates, high volunteer rates, income growth, athletic involvement, and, this one is great, the fewest hours spent in the office. If you want it, Utah’s got it.
The state ranks #1 in “Work Environment” and “Community and Environment.” It effortlessly balances productivity with leisure. Despite its #1 status in those areas, it ranks much lower in “Emotional & Physical Wellbeing,” landing in the middle at #27.
Overall Ranking: #3rd Happiest
New Jersey has the lowest rate of childhood trauma reported and the second-lowest depression rate. Mental health is prioritized, making it a great place to grow and thrive.
New Jersey follows a similar trend to New York in terms of mental health. It ranks even higher for the "Emotional & Physical Well-Being" metric—it is #2 in the country! On the other end of the spectrum, it is a 32 out of 50 for "Work Environment" and a 33 for the "Community & Environment" metric—an improvement from previous years!
Overall Ranking: #2nd Happiest
Marylanders are happy with almost everything. They love their neighbors and their school systems. The people are super healthy. They have some great weather. Really, their only issue is their long commute, which is 32 minutes. It’s seven minutes longer than the national average, but they put up with it because everything else is so great!
Maryland ranks in the top 5 for "Community & Environment" and "Emotional & Physical Well-Being." Maryland shines in emotional well-being, with many residents reporting strong personal relationships and love in their lives. This connectedness helps Maryland rank second overall.
Overall Ranking: #1 Happiest State in the Country
Every year, millions of people flock to Hawaii’s sunny shores, but it’s not just the tourists who love the place. On average, the residents of Hawaii have some of the highest scores for general happiness. Sunny days really do help people’s mood!
Hawai'i's top ranking was in "Emotional & Physical Well-Being." They also ranked in the top 3 in "Community & Environment." This metric is based on high rates of volunteerism, average leisure time per day, and separation & divorce rates. Maybe the rest of the country could benefit from the aloha spirit?
