Happiness isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept, and in the United States, some states struggle more than others.
According to WalletHub’s 2023 Happiness Report, factors like emotional and physical wellbeing, work environment, and community play a crucial role in determining a state’s happiness score.
At the bottom of the list, West Virginia stands out with a troubling score of 35.08, driven by high obesity rates and a lack of healthy lifestyle choices.
Mississippi and Arkansas follow closely, grappling with similar challenges that contribute to their low rankings.
High divorce rates, unemployment, and health issues plague these states, creating an environment where happiness seems elusive.
1: Louisiana
Louisiana ranks as the unhappiest state in America, according to WalletHub’s 2023 Happiness Report. The state suffers from high divorce rates, low income growth, and a challenging work environment.
Also, Louisiana’s residents face significant health issues, along with one of the highest depression and suicide rates in the nation.
2: Mississippi
Mississippi ranks as one of the unhappiest states, facing multiple challenges. Over 25% of residents reported lacking money for food at some point, while many struggled with healthcare costs.
The median income in the state was $37,095, the lowest nationwide. Also, 24.2% of people lived below the poverty line, contributing to high obesity rates and health issues.
3: Tennessee
Tennessee ranks as the third unhappiest state in America due to several factors. It faces high rates of unemployment at 5.5% and significant poverty affecting 17.3% of its residents.
Also, the state struggles with limited access to mental health resources, contributing to a higher prevalence of depression and low life satisfaction among its population.
4: Alabama
Alabama ranks as the fourth unhappiest state, influenced by several key factors. High poverty rates of 17.4% contribute significantly to residents’ overall dissatisfaction.
Limited access to quality healthcare exacerbates mental health issues, leaving many without necessary support. Also, unemployment rates hover around 3.5%, adding financial stress to already struggling families.
5: Rhode Island
Rhode Island ranks fifth among the unhappiest states due to high living costs and heavy taxation burdens. People here often cite expensive housing and taxes as significant stressors.
Also, the state’s economic growth is sluggish, alongside a lack of job opportunities, leading to dissatisfaction. Winters are harsh, further contributing to the overall unhappiness among residents.
6: Georgia
Georgia ranks as the sixth unhappiest state in America, driven by high poverty rates and limited access to healthcare. It faces challenges such as a 14.3% poverty rate, which affects daily life quality.
Also, Georgia experiences significant income inequality, with a median household income of $61,744, leaving many residents feeling financially insecure.
7: Florida
Florida ranks as one of America’s unhappiest states, primarily due to high living costs and significant stressors. It faces a poverty rate of 17.1%, affecting many residents’ daily lives.
Also, limited access to mental health resources contributes to rising cases of anxiety and depression. In this environment, many Floridians struggle with job security, making financial stability a constant concern.
8: West Virginia
West Virginia ranks as one of America’s unhappiest states, with several factors contributing to its low happiness score. It has the highest rate of adult depression, exacerbated by chronic sleep deprivation among residents.
Stagnant incomes and poor emotional well-being further detract from quality of life, while the state’s drug problem remains a pressing concern, worsened by inadequate medical care and overprescription issues.
9: Delaware
Delaware ranks as the ninth unhappiest state, impacted by various socioeconomic factors. It faces high levels of unemployment, with a rate of 5.5%, and a significant percentage of residents living under financial stress.
Also, healthcare access issues lead to lower life satisfaction, exacerbating feelings of unhappiness among its population.
10: Massachusetts
Massachusetts ranks as the tenth unhappiest state due to high living costs and significant income inequality. Residents often face financial stress, with a high cost of living outpacing income growth.
Limited access to affordable healthcare further exacerbates dissatisfaction, while the state’s harsh winters contribute to feelings of isolation and seasonal depression.
11: North Carolina
North Carolina ranks as one of the unhappiest states due to a combination of factors. It faces significant unemployment rates of 4.7%, impacting financial stability.
A high poverty rate of 14.3% strains residents, while limited access to mental health services exacerbates feelings of anxiety and depression.
Also, the state’s healthcare access issues further contribute to overall dissatisfaction among its population.
12: Connecticut
Connecticut ranks as the twelfth unhappiest state due to high living costs and significant income disparities. It has one of the highest tax burdens in the nation, putting financial strain on residents.
Also, unemployment stands at about 4.6%, worsening feelings of instability. Limited access to affordable healthcare further exacerbates dissatisfaction, impacting overall well-being.
13: South Carolina
South Carolina ranks as the thirteenth unhappiest state in America, driven by significant issues affecting its residents.
Unemployment rates hover around 4.4%, while poverty affects approximately 13.6% of the population.
Also, access to healthcare remains limited, contributing to high rates of chronic health conditions and mental health challenges, further diminishing overall happiness.
14: Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s ranked among the unhappiest states, facing significant socioeconomic challenges. It has the nation’s eighth-highest poverty rate at 14.3%, fueled by underemployment and inequality.
Food insecurity affects 14.3% of residents, limiting access to healthy food. The state experiences a 34% increase in unemployment alongside rising violent crime rates, further impacting overall happiness.
15: Texas
Texas ranks 15th among the unhappiest states, impacted by high rates of poverty and limited access to quality healthcare. Its poverty rate stands at 13.6%, affecting residents’ overall well-being.
Also, substantial income inequality contributes to dissatisfaction, as many Texans struggle with rising living costs and stagnant wages in urban areas.
16: New Mexico
New Mexico ranks 16th among the unhappiest states in America. Limited economic growth impacts residents, with a low score for work environment.
High divorce rates and long-term unemployment contribute to dissatisfaction. Also, the state sits at 39th for emotional and physical well-being, and socioeconomic challenges persist throughout the region.
17: Nevada
Nevada ranks 17th among the unhappiest states, primarily due to high unemployment rates, which hover around 5.3%.
Residents face significant income inequality, with a median household income of $62,243, affecting financial stability. Also, limited access to mental health services exacerbates issues like anxiety and depression, reinforcing overall unhappiness.
18: Illinois
Illinois ranks as the 18th unhappiest state in America, primarily due to economic challenges and high taxation. High property taxes and continued financial strain contribute to residents’ dissatisfaction.
Furthermore, cities like Chicago face crime and safety concerns, exacerbating unhappiness. Limited access to mental health services also impacts emotional well-being, leaving many residents feeling isolated and stressed.
19: Michigan
Michigan ranks as one of the unhappiest states due to a combination of factors. High unemployment rates at 4.5% contribute to financial stress, while a median household income of $59,584 lags behind national averages.
Limited access to mental health resources exacerbates feelings of depression, highlighting the need for improved healthcare services.
20: New York
New York ranks as the 20th unhappiest state due to various challenges. It faces high living costs, with median rent exceeding $2,000, burdening residents financially.
Also, 8.3% of New Yorkers report frequent mental distress, highlighting limited access to mental health resources. Also, the state’s fierce competition and fast-paced lifestyle contribute to stress, affecting overall happiness.
Alicia Richards