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These are the 10 Happiest States in America. Do You Live in One?

Wouldn’t it be nice to wake up feeling blissfully happy every day? Where you live may play a larger part than you may think. That’s because there are some places where it’s just easier to be content.

The happiest states in the U.S. have figured out the secret to a joyful life, and it's not just about good weather (although that certainly helps). Strong economies, excellent healthcare, plenty of time for leisure, and a sense of community all play an important role.

It’s not exactly surprising that Hawaii, a tropical chain of islands, is the happiest state in the nation, according to personal finance website WalletHub.

“In addition to pursuing your passions, having a good work-life balance and maintaining an emotional support network, another key way to boost your happiness is living in the right place,” said WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo in a statement.

To determine the happiest states, WalletHub examined 30 metrics across three categories, emotional and physical well-being, work environment, and community and environment.

“The happiest states are those that provide above-average quality of life in a wide variety of areas, from strong state economies and high quality physical and mental health care to adequate amounts of leisure time and good weather,” Lupo added.

What are the happiest states in America?

Certain states stand out for their high levels of well-being. And with that in mind, let’s take a look at the top 10 happiest states.

1. Hawaii: This scenic island state tops the list of the happiest states. Around 85% of adults reporting good or better health. The tropical weather surely doesn’t hurt either. Plus, Hawaiians have the longest life expectancy in the U.S., meaning they get to enjoy paradise even longer than the rest of us.
2. Maryland: Maybe money can buy happiness, after all. Residents of Maryland are figuratively rolling in the dough, as the state has the highest percentage of households earning over $75,000. That, along with one of the nation’s lowest unemployment rates, helps the state rank second.
3. Nebraska: The Cornhusker State takes third, thanks to its unemployment rate, which is fourth lowest in the nation. Nebraskans are also able to enjoy plenty of time away from work, ranking first in average leisure time per day.
4. New Jersey: The Garden State ranks fourth overall, but first in emotional and physical well-being. That means residents of the state feel better than residents of any other state. Must be nice.
5. Connecticut: If you want a solid work-life balance, Connecticut may be the state for you. Residents report working the fifth-fewest hours per week, leaving plenty of time for leisure activities.
6. Utah: If you want to work even less than those in Connecticut do, consider Utah. That’s because the state’s residents work less than in any other state. Working less also gives Utahns more time to volunteer, which they lead the nation in.
7. California: The Golden State ranks seventh, driven by its high percentage of adults who feel active and productive, as well as California’s strong economy. Californians also have more time to play, as they tied Connecticut with the fifth-lower amount of work hours per week.
8. New Hampshire: The Granite State ranks eighth, with its safety rating coming in at second highest in the country. The state’s residents also boast high life expectancy and strong communities.
9. Massachusetts: Massachusetts ranks in the top 10 in emotional and physical well-being and work environment. The Bay State has a strong economy, and its safety ranking is in the top five.
10. Idaho: If you’d like to get paid more, you might want to consider moving to Boise, Nampa, Meridian, Idaho Falls, or one of the Gem State’s other cities. That’s because the state ranks first in income growth.