Happiest cities in America
Happiness doesn’t just come from sunshine or fancy restaurants. WalletHub’s 2025 study breaks it down into 29 factors, from health to community ties. These factors together create a detailed picture of what life feels like for residents.
Researchers found that three main areas matter most: emotional and physical well-being, income and job satisfaction, and community and environment. Each factor is weighted differently, with well-being carrying the most impact at 50 points.
Fremont, California
Fremont, California, ranks as the happiest city in America. Residents report some of the nation’s lowest depression levels and very few mentally unhealthy days. These positive health indicators set it apart from most U.S. cities.
With strong incomes and a low separation rate, Fremont’s families enjoy stability. Add in excellent life expectancy, and it’s easy to see why Fremont comes first. Its supportive environment ensures residents feel both secure and connected.
San Jose, California
San Jose’s tech-driven economy keeps household incomes high, with many families earning well above $75,000. That financial stability gives residents more room to thrive and feel less economic stress.
Beyond the numbers, San Jose shines for its tight-knit communities and low depression rates, showing that emotional support and strong social ties make a real difference. Residents also benefit from one of the country’s highest life expectancies.
Irvine, California
Irvine is known for its wellness culture, with residents prioritizing both physical and emotional health. Low depression rates stand out as a key marker and reflect the city’s lifestyle priorities.
Community engagement is high, and safe neighborhoods create a sense of belonging. Combined, these factors give Irvine one of the strongest happiness scores in the country. The city also invests heavily in parks and green spaces.
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Sioux Falls, South Dakota, proves that happiness isn’t just for coastal cities. Its balance of income, employment, and community factors pushes it into the top five nationally.
Affordable living costs and stable jobs allow residents to focus on relationships and health. This mix keeps Sioux Falls among the nation’s happiest places. Access to healthcare and outdoor activities also supports daily well-being.
Overland Park, Kansas
Overland Park, Kansas, shows how much community matters. Residents benefit from strong neighborhood networks and plenty of green spaces for outdoor time. Local engagement programs also encourage social connection.
With low crime, a family-friendly environment, and good job satisfaction, Overland Park maintains high quality of life without the pressure of big-city living. Steady income growth adds to the city’s appeal.
Lincoln, Nebraska
Lincoln, Nebraska, combines a healthy economy with social well-being. High life expectancy and low stress help residents enjoy their daily routines more fully.
The city offers affordable housing, a good job market, and close-knit communities. Together, these features keep Lincoln near the top of the happiness rankings. Lincoln also benefits from low commute times compared to larger cities.
Madison, Wisconsin
Madison, Wisconsin, encourages residents to get outside, whether it’s biking trails or lakefront strolls. That access to nature supports both physical and mental health, especially in urban areas.
The city also scores well in community engagement and social activities. Madison’s mix of healthy living and supportive networks makes it a standout. Seasonal festivals and cultural events further boost community spirit.
Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale, Arizona, blends an outdoor lifestyle with a strong local economy. Sunshine encourages active living, boosting physical and emotional well-being throughout the year.
Low levels of depression and strong job satisfaction give Scottsdale an edge. Residents balance leisure with career stability, creating an environment that supports long-term happiness. Its access to resorts, golf, and outdoor recreation strengthens quality of life.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco ranks high thanks to job opportunities, strong life expectancy, and active community engagement. Despite high costs, its cultural vibrancy draws people in and keeps them connected.
Residents benefit from job security and outdoor access, from beaches to parks. These factors help offset urban challenges and keep happiness levels high. Tech-driven employment also adds strong career opportunities.
Huntington Beach, California
Huntington Beach, California, earns its spot with plenty of leisure time and great weather. A culture of relaxation helps residents balance work and life with less stress.
Good mental health indicators and a coastal lifestyle strengthen community well-being. Sunshine, surf, and social connections combine to create lasting happiness here. Recreational activities on the beach keep physical activity levels high.
Bismarck, North Dakota
Bismarck, North Dakota, makes the list for its short commute times and supportive community environment. Less time in traffic means more time with family or personal activities.
Strong incomes and affordable living reduce financial stress. Combined with low unemployment, Bismarck’s steady lifestyle makes it one of the country’s happiest cities. Its small size fosters strong community relationships.
Omaha, Nebraska
Omaha, Nebraska, delivers balance across income, health, and environment. Residents enjoy good job opportunities alongside supportive community resources that enhance daily life.
Affordable costs of living allow people to focus on personal well-being. With its blend of stability and social connection, Omaha stays firmly in the happiness rankings. The city’s cultural growth also supports community pride.
Seattle, Washington
Seattle balances a powerful economy with easy access to the outdoors. Mountains, forests, and water all add to daily quality of life and recreation.
Mental health awareness and strong incomes contribute to overall well-being. Even with its rainy reputation, Seattle’s lifestyle supports a high happiness score. Tech jobs further strengthen employment stability.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina, stands out for its friendly environment and low depression rates. The city emphasizes hospitality and connection, giving it a unique charm.
Strong community bonds, historic beauty, and favorable weather conditions all support well-being. Charleston shows how environment and relationships fuel everyday happiness. Access to coastal recreation also improves daily quality of life. Discover the key things to know before exploring historic towns in the South.
Why income matters
The study highlights that income boosts happiness most up to about $75,000 a year. Beyond that, mental health and social support become more important than salary growth.
Cities like Fremont and San Jose thrive because they combine solid incomes with low stress, strong communities, and a focus on emotional well-being. Work-life balance is another factor that plays a key role. To recover from burnout, prioritize work-life balance, health, and relationships, including occasional breaks and retreats. Explore these 14 tailored retreats ranked to help you bounce back.
In your opinion, what makes your city or any city a happy place? Join the conversation below.
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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.
