Utah Named 'Happiest State In America'

Utah is recognized as the happiest state in America for 2023, according to a new study by WalletHub. This notable distinction comes after a short interlude in 2022 when the state ranked fourth.

The comprehensive study annually evaluates all 50 states across a detailed set of 30 metrics that cover various facets of life. These metrics, which range from economic factors to emotional and physical well-being, are grouped under three principal categories:

1. Emotional & Physical Well-Being
2. Work Environment
3. Community & Environment

Significantly, Utah secured the top position in both the Work Environment and Community & Environment categories. Despite its exemplary performance in these areas, the state has room for improvement in the Emotional & Physical Well-Being segment.

Several key findings from the study include:

• Utah, in conjunction with Washington, ranked third in the nation for sports participation.
• The state boasts the lowest divorce rate in the country.
• Utah stands as the fourth-safest state in the U.S.
• Furthermore, Utahns, on average, have fewer work hours compared to other states.

Of particular note is Utah's exceptional performance in community service. The state leads the nation in volunteer rates, with its residents volunteering at three times the rate of those in Florida, the state with the lowest volunteer rates.

Historical data reveals that this is not Utah's first time at the pinnacle. The state was previously crowned the happiest in 2021. The slight drop in 2022 rankings was followed by this year's commendable ascent back to the top position.

Rounding out the top five happiest states in 2023 are Hawaii, Maryland, Minnesota, and New Jersey. On the other end of the spectrum, West Virginia was ranked the least happy, followed by Louisiana, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Kentucky.