The residents of the United States may not necessarily have a consensus on what constitutes happiness, but a new ranking has revealed the places where people are most likely to find it.
WalletHub has released its annual ranking of the “Happiest States in America,” which ranks all 50 states in the U.S. based on 30 indicators related to physical and mental health, work environment, financial security, and community life. Hawaii topped the list, followed closely by New Jersey, Utah, Idaho, and Maryland.
According to Gallup data cited by WalletHub, only 44% of Americans say they are “very satisfied” with their lives. This indicates that factors such as health, employment, relationships, and financial stability all play a role in people’s overall sense of happiness.
Hawaii, known for its exceptional performance in health, life satisfaction, and financial well-being, claimed the top spot on the list. Residents of the state ranked first in life satisfaction nationwide, with the second-lowest rate of adult depression onset in the U.S. Approximately 84% of adults consider their health to be good or excellent, with Hawaii residents having the highest life expectancy in the nation. Nearly 72% of adults in Hawaii say they feel energetic and productive every day.
In terms of the economy, Hawaii also excelled, boasting an unemployment rate of only 2.5%, one of the lowest in the U.S. The state ranks third in the proportion of households earning over $75,000 per year, and residents have the second-lowest level of financial anxiety in the country.
New Jersey claimed the second spot on the ranking, largely due to its lowest rate of depression onset in the U.S. and a high percentage of residents reporting having caring and supportive relationships. Known as the “Garden State,” New Jersey has the second-lowest separation and divorce rates in the country, as well as the second-highest proportion of households earning over $75,000.
Utah ranked third, topping the list in the “economic security” indicator, which takes into account employment status, insurance coverage, and financial stability. The state has the lowest separation and divorce rates in the country, with residents working fewer hours per week than in any other state and ranking second in WalletHub’s climate ranking.
WalletHub’s ranking is based on various indicators related to overall quality of life, including health, financial status, employment, safety, social connections, and leisure time.
Chip Lupo, an analyst at WalletHub, stated in a release, “The happiest states typically offer a quality of life above the average in multiple aspects, covering robust state economies, quality physical and mental healthcare, ample leisure time, and pleasant climates.”
“It is also worth noting that while the saying ‘money can’t buy happiness’ holds true, having the funds to sustain a comfortable lifestyle is still crucial. However, once basic needs are met, the incremental increase in happiness from money may not compare to fulfilling hobbies, strong relationships, and opportunities for personal growth.”