New York named one of America's happiest states. See where it ranks

New York has been named the 11th-happiest state in America, according to a WalletHub study that examined data from the U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

WalletHub analyzed state data to determine which states were the "happiest," using metrics that included mental health surveys, cost-of-living analysis, unemployment data and participation in activities such as volunteering and recreational sports.

One of WalletHub's sources, a Gallup poll from January 2025, found that 44% of Americans were "very satisfied" with their lives, a historic low since the poll began in 2001. However, the same poll found that Americans were more satisfied with their personal lives than with life in the United

States overall.

While Americans face a variety of challenges that can affect their quality of life, the state where they live may influence how they rate their happiness and satisfaction.

Happiest state in America is Hawaii

Hawaii ranked as the happiest state in America, despite facing significant environmental challenges in recent years.

The state has one of the lowest depression rates in the country and ranks highly for physical health. Its natural beauty and opportunities for recreation, including surfing and other outdoor activities, also contribute to its appeal.

New York ranks 11th-happiest state

New York ranked No. 11 in the study, with some of the lowest depression and suicide rates in the country.

The state also offers numerous opportunities for outdoor and indoor recreation. New York ranked among the places tourists felt happiest while on vacation in 2026, in part because of the wide variety of activities and experiences available throughout the state.

However, New York ranked lower in some categories, including factors related to its economic and work environment.

Read on to see how New York ranks on other factors that contribute to the overall happiness ranking.

Top 15 happiest states in U.S.

1. Hawaii
2. New Jersey
3. Utah
4. Idaho
5. Maryland
6. Nebraska
7. Connecticut
8. Minnesota
9. California
10. New Hampshire
11. New York
12. North Dakota
13. Massachusetts
14. North Carolina
15. South Carolina

Which states have the highest and lowest depression rates?

States with lowest depression rates

1. New Jersey
2. Hawaii
3. New York
4. California
5. Florida

States with highest depression rates

1. Michigan
2. Oregon
3. Maine
4. Kentucky
5. West Virginia

State suicide rates

Lowest state suicide rates

1. New Jersey
2. New York
3. Massachusetts
4. Rhode Island
5. California

Highest state suicide rates

1. South Dakota
2. New Mexico
3. Montana
4. Wyoming
5. Alaska

Long-term unemployment rate by state

Lowest state long-term unemployment rate

1. North Dakota
2. Hawaii
3. Montana
4. South Dakota
5. Vermont

Highest state long-term unemployment rate

1. Washington
2. Illinois
3. New York
4. Oregon
5. California

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: New York named one of America's happiest states. See where it ranks