Happiness looks different depending on where you live. A new WalletHub report examined all 50 states to determine which offer the best mix of health, work, and community conditions—and New Jersey landed near the top.
The Garden State earned fourth place overall, leading the nation in emotional and physical well-being. Residents report the lowest rates of depression and suicide in the country. Divorce rates also ranked second lowest nationwide.
Not every measure was strong. Long-term unemployment ranked 49th, highlighting challenges in the labor market despite the state’s high overall score.
WalletHub measured 30 metrics across three key areas: emotional and physical health, work environment, and community environment. Scores included factors such as income growth, unemployment, productivity, neighborhood safety, and social stability. Each metric contributed to a weighted overall score, giving a full picture of life satisfaction in each state.
Nationally, only 44% of Americans say they feel “very satisfied” with their lives. Rising costs and economic uncertainty weigh on households across the country. WalletHub’s findings suggest that local conditions can make a difference. New Jersey’s strong mental health and community resources helped push it above most other states.
The data shows a balance of strengths and weaknesses. Mental health outcomes and social stability boosted the state’s ranking, while labor market gaps held it back. Taken together, these factors placed New Jersey in the top five nationwide, making it one of the happiest states in America.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.