the 5 happiest states in america

The Happiest States in America

Major Categories

• Community Activities• Environment Activities • Recreational Activities

• Emotional Well-Being• Physical Well-Being• Work Environment

Major Factors

Photo: Boston Public Library, via Flickr

Fifth Happiest

North Dakota

North Dakota is a major beneficiary of the recent shale oil boom, while still maintaining its small-town feel throughout.

• Lowest unemployment in the nation.

• Second greatest income growth.• Second-lowest divorce rate.• Top five for residents getting

adequate amounts of sleep.

Photo: Boston Public Library, via Flickr

Fourth Happiest

ColoradoColorado has long ranked high in happiness, thanks largely to the healthy living habits of its residents, buoyed by ample opportunities to exercise outside.

• First in the nation for sports participation.

• Second in the nation for percent of residents getting adequate sleep.

• Third-lowest rate of obesity in the nation.

Photo: Nicholas Raymond, via Flickr

Photo: Burroblando, via FlickrPhoto: Burroblando, via Flickr

Third Happiest

Hawai’iIt’s not hard to see why Hawaiians are among the nation’s happiest: warm and sunny weather year-round, along with relatively safe and tight-knit communities.

• Lowest levels of depression in the country.

• Second-lowest obesity rate.• Fourth-lowest divorce rate.• Fifth-safest state in the country.

Photo: Jerry Huddleston, via Flickr

Second Happiest

MinnesotaThough the weather is cold, residents of Minnesota—like many of the other states on this list—benefit from both small and tight-knit communities, as well as healthy economies.

• Third-lowest divorce rate.• Third-safest state in the nation.• Fourth-highest rate of volunteerism.

Photo: Boston Public Library, via Flickr

Happiest

UtahSeveral studies have shown that living amongst people with similar values is good for building community and social support. With nearly 60% of residents identifying themselves as Mormon, Utah has that in spades.

• Lowest hours worked in the nation.• Highest rate of volunteerism.• Fifth-lowest rate of obesity.

A happy retirement is easier in these states, largely because of strong social ties and healthy economies.

But what if you find yourself falling short of your retirement goals, and don’t have that kind of support?

Check out our special free report…

The $15,978 Social Security Bonus Most Retirees Completely Overlook