2018’s Happiest Places In America

The United States is full of people with diverse backgrounds, beliefs, skills, interests, and more. It’s a country that celebrates individuality and freedom. However, it’s hard to argue that humans don’t have a whole lot in common no matter where they are, like what can bring them happiness, for example.

Social scientist, adventurer, and educator Dr. Frank Niles told NBC news that to become a happier person, you must, “live fully in the present, seek ways to make a difference in the lives of other people every day, and make time in your life to build healthy relationships that are defined by giving and receiving support.”

When Wallet Hub conducted their annual survey to measure happiness from state to state, they took a close look at three factors: work environments, emotional and physical well-being, and community. Places with lots of sunshine and fresh air and supportive communities are the ideal environments for happiness.

Hawaii was 2018’s happiest state in the country, and West Virginia came in last. The survey of course considers other specific factors, like sports participation, divorce rates, safety protocols, and depression diagnoses. USA Today writes that Hawaii “ranks first in the emotional and physical well-being dimension, with low shares of adult depression.” Sarah Berger’s article also explains, “The least happy state, according to WalletHub, is West Virginia thanks to factors including low adequate sleep rates and high levels of adult depression.”