The Happiest States in America: Unveiling 2024’s Brightest Spots

By: Paige Burns | Last updated: Feb 22, 2024

With the aim to explore happiness beyond just country borders, a recent WalletHub study uncovered the joy-filled corners of each state of the United States. The study paints a vivid picture of happiness across the nation by ranking all 50 states based on 30 key metrics spanning well-being, work environment, and community life. From emotional wellness to career satisfaction, each state’s score reflects its residents’ overall contentment. With the top 11 states shining brightly in the happiness index, discover the secrets behind America’s happiest places.

11. Delaware

In the happiness landscape, Delaware boasts a notable blend of well-being and community vibrancy. Ranking 11th in emotional and physical wellness underscores the state’s commitment to individual health.

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Lewes in Delaware

Source: visitdelaware/Instagram

While its 29th position in the work environment category suggests room for improvement, Delaware shines in community engagement, securing a commendable sixth place. With a balanced approach to personal wellness and vibrant community life, Delaware stands as a beacon of happiness in the United States.

10. Nebraska

Nebraska isn’t just a state; it’s a happy state of mind. Ranked among the top 10 happiest places to live in the US, Nebraska shines for its focus on well-being.

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Nelson Produce Farm in Nebraska

Source: visit_nebraska/Instagram

With impressive stats like the fourth-highest rate of sufficient sleep and the fifth-lowest divorce rate, it’s clear that Nebraska prioritizes healthy lifestyles and strong relationships. These efforts emphasize its commitment to fostering happiness, making Nebraska a standout destination for those seeking a fulfilling and contented life.

9. Idaho

Idaho stands tall among America’s happiest states, boasting remarkable achievements in community satisfaction and economic vitality. With the second-best rating in community and environmental metrics and impressive economic indicators, like sharing the fourth-lowest unemployment rate and fourth-highest income growth, Idaho offers a balanced blend of contentment and prosperity.

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Boise in Idaho

Source: visitidaho/Instagram

This harmonious mix makes it a prime destination for those seeking both happiness and financial well-being, proving that in Idaho, happiness truly meets prosperity.

8. Florida

Florida’s allure extends beyond its sun-kissed shores, drawing many to call it home, especially seniors seeking vibrant communities and affordable living. Notably, Florida shines with one of the nation’s lowest rates of adult depression, highlighting its dedication to mental well-being.

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Aerial View of Miami, Florida

Source: visitflorida/Instagram

However, despite this sunny disposition, the state grapples with low volunteerism and high divorce rates, offering a complex tapestry of happiness factors. Florida’s journey to happiness embodies a blend of triumphs and trials, revealing the multifaceted nature of well-being in the Sunshine State.

7. California

California shines as a beacon of mental health, boasting one of the nation’s lowest rates of adult depression and securing a strong position in overall emotional and physical well-being. However, while excelling in mental wellness, the Golden State faces challenges in the work environment and community aspects, signaling a nuanced landscape of well-being.

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San Francisco, California Bay Area

Source: Visit California/Facebook

California’s journey calls attention to the intricate interplay between mental health triumphs and areas for growth in work-related and community dimensions.

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6. Connecticut

Connecticut stakes its claim in the well-being arena, clinching a commendable sixth place in emotional and physical well-being and a solid tenth in community and environment. Yet, its work environment lags at 32nd, marked by struggles in long-term unemployment and income growth, ranking among the bottom five.

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Ski Sundown in Connecticut

Source: ctvisit/Instagram

This duality showcases Connecticut’s mixed performance, showcasing strengths in some well-being facets while grappling with challenges in work-related domains that influence overall happiness.

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5. New Jersey

In the realm of emotional and physical well-being, New Jersey gleams, boasting the lowest suicide rate nationwide and the third-lowest divorce rate in the US. Its robust work environment secures a notable 14th position, while its community and environment performance lands at 29th.

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Aerial View in New Jersey

Source: visit_nj/Instagram

New Jersey’s stellar mental health stats, coupled with a sturdy work environment, play pivotal roles in elevating its overall well-being and happiness standings among the states.

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4. Minnesota

In Minnesota, well-being is more than just a concept—it’s a way of life. With the second-highest rate of adequate sleep and the third-highest volunteer rate, the state shines in health and community engagement.

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Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area in Minnesota

Source: exploreminnesota/Instagram

Ranked tenth in emotional and physical well-being, third in work environment, and 13th in community and environment, Minnesota’s dedication to health, community, and positive work environments creates a harmonious blend where happiness and well-being thrive.

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3. Maryland

In Maryland, happiness indeed prevails. With top 10 rankings in emotional and physical well-being, work environment, and community and environment, Maryland sets itself apart as a beacon of balanced well-being.

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Lavender Field in Maryland.

Source: Only In Maryland/Facebook

This well-rounded performance underscores the state’s dedication to nurturing a positive and harmonious environment for its residents, where health, work, and community seamlessly intertwine to create a fulfilling and happy lifestyle.

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2. Hawaii

In the realm of well-being, Hawaii reigns supreme, boasting the lowest rate of adult depression and the fourth-lowest divorce rate nationwide. Safety is also paramount, with a notable fifth-place ranking. However, challenges surface in work-related and community aspects, landing Hawaii at 25th and 30th place, respectively.

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Amazing view of Waikiki, Hawaii

Source: Only In Hawaii/Facebook

Despite its mental health and safety accolades, Hawaii’s broader well-being paints a nuanced landscape, reflecting both triumphs and trials in different dimensions of life.

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1. Utah

Utah secures the coveted title of the happiest state in the US, as revealed by WalletHub’s rankings. Taking the top position, Utah shines brightly in both the work environment and the community and environment categories. With the highest volunteer rate nationwide, it reveals a vibrant sense of community engagement.

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Desert Pearl Inn, a beautiful resort in Utah.

Source: Utah.com/Facebook

Additionally, boasting the lowest divorce rate across the country shows the state’s emphasis on stable relationships. These factors collectively contribute to Utah’s overall happiness, marking it as a standout performer in the pursuit of joy among US states.

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