When it comes to happiness, where you live really does matter. That’s exactly what WalletHub’s 2025 “Happiest States in America” report shows. This year, Hawaii holds onto its usual top spot, while Nebraska makes a surprise jump from ninth to third. At a time when only 44% of Americans say they’re very satisfied with life, this list shines a light on what’s working—at least in some corners of the country.
Table of Contents
Rankings
WalletHub ranked all 50 states based on three key areas: emotional and physical well-being, work environment, and community and environment. They used 30 weighted metrics like depression rates, income levels, physical health, and social connections to come up with a happiness score for each state.
Here’s how the top 10 played out in 2025:
| Rank | State | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hawaii | Low depression, top life satisfaction, longest lifespan |
| 2 | Maryland | High income levels, low unemployment, strong motivation |
| 3 | Nebraska | High economic security, best leisure time, low divorce |
| 4 | New Jersey | Good income and healthcare access |
| 5 | Connecticut | Strong education and low crime rates |
| 6 | Utah | High volunteerism and strong community bonds |
| 7 | California | Great weather and career opportunities |
| 8 | New Hampshire | Low crime and high physical well-being |
| 9 | Massachusetts | Quality healthcare and education |
| 10 | Idaho | Strong sense of community and good work-life balance |
At the bottom of the list were West Virginia, Louisiana, and Arkansas.
Hawaii
Hawaii continues to lead the nation in happiness, and it’s easy to see why. The state reports the highest life satisfaction and the second-lowest depression rate. Around 85% of adults in Hawaii say they’re in good or better health, and they enjoy the longest life expectancy in the country.
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On top of that, low unemployment and high household income levels make it one of the most financially secure places to live. It’s a mix of paradise and practicality.
Maryland
Maryland comes in second, thanks to a thriving job market and financial prosperity. With one of the lowest unemployment rates at 3.2% and the highest percentage of households earning over $75,000, the state offers stability and opportunity.
But money isn’t the only reason people are happy here. Marylanders report feeling highly motivated and supported in their relationships, making it one of the top states for emotional health and personal fulfillment.
Nebraska
Now let’s talk about Nebraska. The Cornhusker State jumped from ninth to third in just one year. What changed? Almost everything.
Nebraska now boasts the second-highest level of economic security and one of the lowest depression rates in the U.S. Despite having longer average work hours, Nebraskans enjoy the most leisure time. That’s a rare and valuable combination.
The state also scores high in physical health and has one of the lowest divorce and separation rates. In short, people in Nebraska feel financially secure, mentally well, and supported by strong families and communities.
Metrics
WalletHub’s analysis was based on 30 metrics, which were grouped into three broad categories. Here’s how they broke it down:
| Category | Examples of Metrics |
|---|---|
| Emotional & Physical Well-Being | Depression rates, physical health, life satisfaction |
| Work Environment | Unemployment, job satisfaction, work hours |
| Community & Environment | Divorce rates, leisure time, social support |
Each metric was graded on a 100-point scale, and the scores were averaged to find the overall rankings.
Takeaway
The happiest states in 2025 aren’t just about beaches or big paychecks. They’re places where people feel healthy, supported, and financially secure. Whether it’s Hawaii’s island charm, Maryland’s wealth, or Nebraska’s work-life balance, these states show us that happiness is a combination of many factors—some personal, some regional.
So if you’re looking to boost your own happiness, maybe it’s time to think beyond self-help books. A simple change in location might be the smartest move yet.
FAQs
What state ranked happiest in 2025?
Hawaii ranked as the happiest state in the U.S. for 2025.
Why did Nebraska move up in rankings?
Nebraska improved in health, work-life balance, and economic security.
Which state ranked lowest in happiness?
West Virginia ranked lowest among all 50 states.
What factors determine state happiness?
WalletHub used 30 metrics across well-being, work, and community.
Is income linked to happiness rankings?
Yes, higher income levels contributed to higher happiness scores.
