These 10 states in the US are considered the happiest

Every morning, you wake up with a smile, feeling the quiet contentment that comes from living in a place that truly nourishes your soul. You don’t just go through the motions of your day; you’re surrounded by people who share that same sense of fulfillment, in a community that celebrates happiness.

These aren’t just picturesque locations; they’re states where people truly thrive, and where every day feels full of promise. Research from WalletHub reveals that certain U.S. states have figured out how to balance work, life, and health in ways that make their residents genuinely happy, Hawaii being one example.

These states aren’t just known for their beautiful scenery; they offer emotional well-being, financial security, and a strong sense of belonging, creating a life that feels… well, great. Ready to discover which states are leading the way in happiness? Let’s explore!

Hawaii

Let’s start with the obvious one: Hawaii. Yeah, yeah, easy pick. Hawaii consistently ranks high in emotional well-being. According to a Fox News poll, about 85% of adults reported being in good or better health. People spend time outdoors, value family, and don’t glorify overworking. When I visited, nobody rushed me. Ever waited in line somewhere and not felt annoyed? That’s Hawaii energy.

Sure, the cost of living hurts. Residents report the highest levels of life satisfaction in the U.S. and the second-lowest rate of adult depression. Why? Because they’ve got balance. Community matters here, and that goes a long way in making people feel connected. If you’ve ever been, you get it, living well isn’t just about what’s in your bank account; it’s about how you feel on the inside.

Maryland

Maryland has one of the strongest economies in the U.S., which helps drive its ranking as the second-happiest state. High household incomes and a low unemployment rate give residents a sense of financial security, as CBS News notes. With one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, Maryland’s economy keeps people feeling more stable and satisfied.

Along with financial security, social relationships also play a big role in its ranking. Communities, particularly in suburban areas like Columbia, report strong social bonds, which boost overall life satisfaction. Having good friends, supportive neighbors, and a sense of connection all contribute to the state’s overall well-being.

Nebraska

No one brags about moving to Nebraska, but maybe they should. With its solid job market, affordable cost of living, and strong community connections, Nebraska ranks high in happiness year after year, with a happiness score of 74.12, according to MED Magazine. The lack of big cities means people here prioritize stability, with most folks reporting strong work-life balance and low levels of stress.

Nebraska is one of those places where people value consistency over constant change. It’s all about creating long-term connections and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. And you know what? That’s exactly why people here feel happier than many others in more fast-paced places. Sometimes it’s about slowing down, speeding up.

New Jersey

New Jersey’s ranking may surprise you, but its high life satisfaction, low depression rates, and solid health outcomes help it claim a spot near the top. It boasts good income levels and excellent healthcare access, both of which help maintain better mental health. Furthermore, its relatively low suicide rates are another indicator of the state’s positive mental health landscape.

The state’s proximity to both New York and Philadelphia offers its residents a wide range of job opportunities without enduring the chaos of city living. People in New Jersey enjoy a better work-life balance thanks to a combination of suburban and urban environments. This ability to balance work, life, and health plays a huge role in New Jersey’s ongoing happiness rankings.

Connecticut

Connecticut offers a great example of how financial stability and healthcare access contribute to overall happiness. The state consistently ranks well for income levels, which directly correlate to people’s satisfaction with life. With widespread health insurance coverage and robust mental and physical health services, Connecticut ensures that residents have the resources they need to thrive, as Yale School of Medicine highlights.

Although the cost of living is higher than in some other states, the high salaries and quality services available help residents offset those costs. This combination of economic security and healthcare access contributes to the state’s high marks in life satisfaction and general happiness. For residents, the stability in their daily lives adds up to a long-term boost in well-being.

Utah

Utah is one of those states that surprises people, but it shouldn’t. Though it dropped from previous years, Utah is still ranked the 6th-happiest state. Families spend time together, neighborhoods feel tight-knit, and outdoor recreation is everywhere. I once had a local tell me, “We actually know our neighbors.” Wild concept, right? But it’s true: having a strong sense of belonging fosters well-being.

Add to that the fact that Utahns have a clear sense of purpose, often driven by faith or outdoor adventures. People genuinely enjoy the simplicity of life here. While other places might feel too busy or disconnected, Utah seems to thrive on community, work-life balance, and living with intention. These qualities are why it’s such a happy place to be.

California

Ah, yes, California, the most complicated state on this list. People either love it or complain endlessly. But despite the traffic, the cost of living, and the never-ending hustle, California ranks high in terms of quality of life and happiness. mainly for its work environment and community, and environmental scores. The access to outdoor recreation is unbeatable. If you’re hiking in the mountains, surfing at the beach, or just walking through a national park, nature plays a huge role in the state’s well-being.

However, the high cost of living can be stressful for some, and let’s not even get started on housing costs. But the freedom to express yourself, follow your passions, and live a laid-back lifestyle in places like Santa Barbara or San Francisco provides a kind of happiness that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. So yeah, it’s chaotic, but it works.

Delaware

Delaware ranks highly in both community and environment, factors that consistently contribute to happiness. People here feel more socially connected, and the state is often praised for its low crime rate and perceived safety. This sense of security and belonging gives Delaware a psychological edge that helps boost residents’ life satisfaction.

They also benefit from a relatively balanced mix of economic factors. With a strong economy, good local healthcare access, and an easy pace of life, residents can enjoy a high quality of life. The combination of community, safety, and opportunity positions Delaware among the happiest states.

Minnesota

Okay, so you’ve heard the jokes about Minnesota, right? But there’s truth to them; people here really are that nice. And that goes a long way toward happiness. Minnesota ranks high in job satisfaction and health outcomes, and locals seem genuinely content. Maybe it’s all the lakes (seriously, they have a lot), or maybe it’s just that laid-back lifestyle makes you feel connected.

Plus, Minnesota embraces all four seasons like a pro. Instead of complaining about the harsh winters, people make the most of them, be it winter sports or cozying up indoors with friends. That attitude towards life, especially the embrace of the tough stuff, gives people resilience that’s hard to beat. How many places can say that?

Idaho

Idaho might not be the first state you think of when it comes to happiness, but it sure deserves a mention. Quiet, simple, and with a strong sense of community, Idaho offers a low-stress environment where people can actually enjoy life. The state’s abundance of outdoor recreation is a huge perk, but more than that, it offers a slower pace of life that helps reduce burnout.

There’s something about Idaho’s charm that fosters deep connections. If it’s at your local coffee shop or hiking a trail, people here seem genuinely invested in one another’s well-being. There’s a reason Idahoans enjoy some of the happiest lives in the country; sometimes, less is more.

Key Takeaways

Happiness rankings aren’t just about weather and scenery; they’re a reflection of community support, financial stability, and health outcomes. States like Hawaii, Maryland, and New Jersey perform well because they prioritize these factors, creating environments where residents feel connected, secure, and fulfilled.

When you break it down, the happiest states combine economic opportunity with strong community bonds. Whether it’s access to outdoor activities in Idaho or excellent healthcare in Massachusetts, these states make it easier for residents to live their best lives. Happiness, it turns out, is about more than just where you live; it’s about how life is built to support you.

Ultimately, whether you’re considering a move or simply looking for ways to improve your happiness, these states offer valuable lessons. Work-life balance, social support, and a little bit of sunshine can go a long way. It’s not just about where you live, it’s about how you live.

Disclosure line: This article was written with the assistance of AI and was subsequently reviewed, revised, and approved by our editorial team.

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