The 5 happiest states in America — and the 5 most miserable

Many people want to be happy, but it can be hard to know what really makes us feel good. A Gallup poll reveals that only 44% of Americans describe themselves as "very satisfied" with their lives. This is the lowest level of satisfaction since 2001.

WalletHub conducted a study to determine how geography affects happiness in the United States. The study evaluated all 50 states using 30 key metrics. These were grouped into emotional and physical well-being, work life, and community and environment. Some of the things they measured include depression and suicide rates, income growth, unemployment, volunteer work, and how much free time people have.

WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo says, "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." The study shows where in America people might have the best or worst chances to thrive.

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Alaska ranks as the fifth least-happy state, weighed down by concerning mental health and lifestyle outcomes. The state has one of the highest suicide rates in the nation and a relatively low life expectancy. Despite residents reporting high levels of productivity and purpose, social well-being and community stability are weaker. Alaska’s geographic isolation may also play a role, reflected in high food insecurity and limited economic security for many households. While volunteerism and leisure time are relatively strong, poor health outcomes and elevated stress drag down overall happiness, per WalletHub.

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Alabama struggles with health and economic measures, landing it as the fourth least-happy state. Rates of depression and chronic disease are higher than average, and fewer residents report feeling active and productive compared to "happier" states. Economic indicators also weigh heavily: Household incomes are low, financial anxiety is high, and job stability is weaker than in much of the country. Safety and food security metrics fall near the bottom as well. Although Alabama’s unemployment rate isn't the highest, WalletHub says its overall challenges in health and financial well-being push it into the bottom tier.

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Arkansas places third to last, with poor rankings across health, economic, and social measures. It reports one of the lowest physical health scores, while depression rates and adverse childhood experiences are high. Plus, economic security is weak, with low household incomes and high underemployment. Social support is limited compared to other states, while divorce rates are also among the nation’s highest.

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Louisiana is the second least-happy state, weighed down by a combination of poor health and economic challenges. Residents report high levels of depression and adverse childhood experiences, alongside low scores for social well-being. Life expectancy is relatively short, and economic security lags, with many households struggling with financial stability. Louisiana also reports some of the lowest productivity and purpose scores.

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West Virginia ranks last as the least happy state in America, by WalletHub's assessment. The state has the highest rate of adult depression in the nation and ranks last for the share of adults who feel active and productive. Physical health outcomes are poor, with chronic disease significantly impacting residents’ happiness. Economic indicators are similarly grim: Household incomes are low, food insecurity is high, and job opportunities are limited. Suicide and divorce rates are also elevated.

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Connecticut secures the fifth spot thanks to its strong physical health outcomes and high social well-being scores. The state ranks near the top for self-reported health, with more than 86% of adults saying disease does not significantly affect their happiness. Social support is also a strength, with Connecticut scoring highly in residents reporting strong relationships. Financial stability contributes as well: A relatively high share of households earn more than $75,000 annually, and the state boasts a solid median credit score.

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New Jersey edges into fourth place with the nation’s top scores in career purpose and low depression rates. Residents report the highest levels of satisfaction with their daily work and goals, and fewer adults have been diagnosed with depression compared to most states. Life expectancy is also among the highest nationwide. Economic factors bolster well-being too: Many households earn well above the national median, and the state ranks high for financial stability.

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Nebraska earns the third spot due to its balance of strong health and economic measures. The state boasts one of the highest adequate sleep rates and a high share of residents who report feeling active and productive. Life expectancy is also above the national average, and Nebraskans report strong levels of economic security. Volunteerism is also particularly high.

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Maryland comes in second, boosted by a strong job market and high financial well-being. It leads the nation in job security and reports a low unemployment rate, while income levels are also among the highest. Residents enjoy relatively strong physical health, with more than 84% reporting minimal impact of disease on their happiness. Maryland also ranks highly for social support, reflecting robust community and relationship networks.

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Hawaii tops WalletHub's ranking as the happiest state in America, thanks to consistently strong performance across health, lifestyle, and social factors. Residents enjoy the nation’s highest life expectancy, supported by excellent physical health outcomes. Social well-being is also a standout, with Hawaii ranking second for supportive relationships. All told, Hawaii’s unique mix of lifestyle and well-being metrics secures its place at number one.