Posted on 09/08/25
| News Source: FOX45
Baltimore, MD - Sept. 8, 2025 - Maryland has been ranked as the second 'Happiest State in America' for 2025, according to a new report by WalletHub.
The personal-finance company released its findings after comparing all 50 states across 30 key indicators of happiness, including depression rates, income growth, and unemployment rates.
Maryland's high ranking is attributed to several factors.
The state ranked sixth in the percentage of depressed adults, fifth in suicide rates, and 16th in safety.
However, the state fell to 38th in adequate sleep rates and 25th in the number of work hours.
WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo highlighted the importance of location in achieving happiness. "In addition to pursuing your passions, having a good work-life balance and maintaining an emotional support network, another key way to boost your happiness is living in the right place," said Lupo. He noted that the happiest states offer a high quality of life, strong economies, and good health care.
Hawaii topped the list as the happiest state, with residents reporting the highest levels of life satisfaction and the second-lowest depression rate. Lupo pointed out that Hawaii also boasts the highest life expectancy in the U.S. and one of the lowest unemployment rates.
Experts agree that happiness is subjective and influenced by individual perceptions and circumstances. Jeanette M. Bennett, PhD, from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, said, "The most important thing about happiness is that it is a perception. Each person creates their own sense of happiness based on past experiences and current circumstances."