REPORT: Hawai’i Ranks as Third Happiest State

Whether or not money can buy happiness seems to be a well thought upon theory. In fact, financial website WalletHub’s analysis on the topic of happiness shows that life satisfaction and emotional well-being, two of the major components of happiness, increase with money, but only up to $75,000.

WalletHub has broken down the numbers and critically analyzed happiness in the United States.

In that list, Hawai’i ranked as the third happiest state in the country. With top rankings in various categories, including highest hedonometer score, lowest depression rate, lowest suicide rate, lowest obesity rate, and as one of the safest states to live in.

Hawai’i’s sunny skies and laid back atmosphere make it no secret why the Aloha state did so well in the study. However, everything wasn’t sunshine and coconuts. Hawai’i held an average-ranged mark in long-term unemployment rate and a low rating for income growth rate, perhaps another indicator showing that money and happiness are not equals.

Using key dimensions –  emotional and physical well-being, work environment, and community, environment and recreational activities –  compiled with 25 relevant metrics, WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia to see just who is the happiest.

On the three major metrics, Hawai’i ranked second in ‘emotional and physical well-being’ rank, seventh in ‘work environment,’ and third in ‘community, environment, and recreational activities.’

Utah held the number one slot, although Hawai’i’s ‘emotional & physical well-being’ score topped it by two slots. Hawai’i was sandwiched between Minnesota and Colorado, who ranked second and fourth, respectively.

Hawai’i held the number one spot in hedonometer score and lowest depression rate. Hawai’i was also ranked second in lowest obesity rate, fourth in lowest divorce rate, and as the fifth safest state in the nation.

Meanwhile, Hawai’i’s rankings in ‘long-term unemployment rate’ and ‘income growth rate’ weren’t as high at 19^th and 30^th.