Looking to live somewhere less chaotic? Maybe it’s the traffic; maybe it’s the work environment; or maybe it’s the weather. Whatever is stealing your peace of mind, some US states seem to be more stressed out than others.
A recent study looked at all US states, including Washington, DC, and compared stress levels across several important indicators, such as hours of sleep, crime rate, credit score, divorce rate, housing costs, number of psychologists per capita, health, and more.
According to the results, the least stressful states are those located in the midwest. In fact, six of the top 10 most laid-back states happen to be located in the middle of the country. On the other hand, the most stressful areas of the country are in the south.
Whether you’re seeking a more laid-back lifestyle or planning to relocate to a different state, you may want to take into consideration the following rankings. Check this out!
10. Wisconsin
Wisconsin is most famous for its dairy products, which are quite popular across the country. Because of that, the state is also known as America’s Dairyland. However, there’s much more to this state than just cheese!
Wisconsin is also famous for its rich and authentic Native American culture. Wisconsinites love and celebrate wood, as it’s a big part of their economy. In fact, they are one of the largest lumber suppliers in the US.
When it comes to stress levels, Wisconsin ranks in the top 10 among the most laid-back US states, placing at No. 10. According to the latest data, its residents have low levels of stress at their workplaces and a less-than-average amount of stress when it comes to family-related and money-related matters.
9. Colorado
Also known as the Centennial State because it was founded 100 years after the Declaration of Independence was signed, Colorado was the 38th state to join the union.
High altitudes and mountains characterize it and enhance its popularity as a high-standard living area and a great tourist destination. So yes, Colorado is one of those stunning places to go if you want to spend most of the time outside enjoying the spectacular views.
However, you may want to consider moving here. The state ranks as the 9th most laid-back US state. Colorado’s residents have fewer safety-related, work-related, and health-related issues than most others in the country.
Furthermore, it appears that Coloradans have some of the highest sleeping hours per night in the United States.
8. Vermont
Here’s another laid-back state you may want to live in. Nicknamed the Green Mountain State, Vermont is best known for its stunning nature and lush greenery. But this state is more than just natural beauty; it’s also home to some of the most well-known brands in the country, including Ben & Jerry’s and Cabot.
Vermont is also known for its delicious maple syrup, which is made from maple trees that grow in the state. In fact, Vermont produces more than 46% of the maple syrup consumed in the United States.
When it comes to how residents live there, the state ranks as the 8th most laid-back state in America. In fact, Vermont is the least stressed state when it comes to family-related matters and the 5th least stressed state when it comes to safety and health.
The Green Mountain State also ranked high for having a low percentage of unhealthy residents, plenty of psychologists per capita, fewer average work hours per week, and the lowest crime rate per capita in the country. Now that’s a laid-back state!
7. New Hampshire
New Hampshire is best known for its history as a center of the American Revolution, granite production, stunning natural landscapes, and its lively arts and culture scene. From the soaring White Mountains to the rugged coastline, this northeastern state is heaven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
And in cities like Concord and Manchester, you’ll find a vibrant arts community with theaters, galleries, and music venues.
New Hampshire’s “live free or die” mentality may help keep stress levels relatively low in this state after all! According to the latest data, the Granite State’s residents have very few money-related stress issues or work-related stress woes, making this place one of the most laid-back states in the US.
In fact, New Hampshire has the lowest percentage of residents living below the poverty level. The state also boasts the lowest percentage of people in poor health as well as a low crime rate per capita.
6. Nebraska
With many cultural landmarks and historical sites, Nebraska plays an important part in American history. The state is best known for its agriculture, particularly its corn production.
Yet the state has so much more to offer than just agriculture. From the invention of Runza and Kool-Aid to the beginnings of Arbor Day, Nebraska is home to many historically significant moments and inventions that you may not know about.
Its vast prairies, thriving music scene, unique attractions, and spacious farmlands make this state one of those destinations you shouldn’t miss.
But there’s more. Nebraska is the sixth most laid-back state in America. According to the latest data, Nebraskans experience low stress over family-related matters and safety and health issues. People who live here also tend to have more affordable housing, more hours of sleep a night, and higher credit scores than other Americans.
5. Utah
When most people think of Utah, they probably think of the Mormon religion and the numerous national parks that are located in the state. But Utah is famous for so much more, which makes the state a lovely place to visit and, why not, live in.
Also known for its stunning slopes, narrow slot canyons, and epic red rocks, Utah’s diverse landscape is a diverse wonderland. About two-thirds of the state is held as public land, which means that both residents and tourists have unlimited access to breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures.
When it comes to the level of stress in this state, Utah provides a relaxing and laid-back place to live for its residents. In fact, those who live in stressed-out states may even feel a little bit jealous.
According to the latest reports, Utah residents experience less stress over work-related issues and work fewer average hours per week than nearly all other states in the country. But that’s not all; the state also has low divorce rates and low levels of money-related stressors.
4. South Dakota
Here’s another laid-back state you may want to live in. South Dakota is known as “the land of infinite variety.” That variety is everywhere, from scenery and weather to the economy and state symbols.
Additionally, the state is famous for its expansive, stunning landscape, which encompasses mountains and rugged lands. And, of course, there’s also the Mount Rushmore National Monument, which is South Dakota’s most prominent tourist attraction.
The state is the fourth most laid-back state in America. Its residents deal with the least amount of stress over work-related issues compared with other states in the country. South Dakota also boasts fewer family-related stressors than the average. People who live in this state tend to get more sleep, have more affordable homes, and have higher credit scores as well.
Keep reading to discover the top 3 most laid-back US states!
3. Iowa
Iowa is known for many things, including pork and corn production, the Iowa State Fair, and political caucuses. Located in the heart of the Midwest region, Iowa is the only US state to be bordered on two sides by navigable rivers: the Missouri and the Mississippi.
Here you’ll find rolling hills, picturesque farmland, and lush green fields. The state is also home to sliced bread, the Red Delicious apple, and the American Gothic House seen in Grant Wood’s famous painting.
According to the latest data, Iowa is the third most laid-back state in America. People who live in this midwestern state experience remarkably low levels of stress over safety, health, and money-related matters. Iowa also boasts one of the lowest percentages of people in poor health and provides the most affordable housing of any other US state.
2. North Dakota
Here’s the second-most laid-back state in America. Covering nearly 71,000 square miles in the Upper Midwest region of the US, North Dakota is named after the Dakota Sioux tribes. It’s most known for its diverse wildlife, historic town, Native American culture, wide open landscapes, and bison.
According to the latest reports, North Dakota ranks as the second-least stressful state in America. Its residents experience less stress about family-related matters than residents in any other US state. Other reasons this place is exceptionally laid-back compared to other states include the fact that North Dakotans have lower divorce rates, affordable neighborhoods, and higher credit scores.
Can you guess which US state is the most laid-back?
1. Minnesota
North Dakota’s next-door neighbor, Minnesota, is famous for its diverse landscape, with prairies, forests, and lakes. In fact, the state is also known as the Land of 1,000 Lakes, since it’s home to the largest number of lakes in the US. There’s also the Mall of America, the largest shopping mall in the US.
But Minnesota may also become famous for being the most laid-back state in America! Minnesotans stress way less about their safety and health than residents of other states. They also tend to have lower divorce rates, more sleep, fewer health problems, and higher credit scores.
You may also want to read 6 Quiet Towns That Are Beyond Charming.
