The 10 least happy states in America

If you live in Kentucky, you are twice as likely as your Hawaiian counterparts to be depressed, and twice as likely to suffer from sleep deprivation as those in South Dakota. This is one of a sampling of stats from a new WalletHub study, which examined 26 metrics across three primary categories — emotional and physical well being; work; and community, environment and recreation — to create a national happiness index of sorts. Last week, we examined the happiest states in America. This week, we take a look at those states that, according to WalletHub’s methodology, are least happy.

A number of financial, health and wellness factors contributed to these rankings. Three of the five states with the highest obesity rates are on here. Life expectancy was another determining factor, as was prevalence of heart attack, prevalence of depression and overall physical health index. Income growth and long-term unemployment rates also played a substantial role. In short, the states that are least happy have a healthy need for life insurance, health insurance and good, solid financial planning.

Southern states dominate the list, but the Midwest and a single Eastern state have a presence as well. For the full rankings, read on. 

Editor’s note: District of Columbia was included in the study, for a total of 51 rankings. 

No. 42. Indiana

Emotional & physical well-being rank: 44
Work rank: 31
Community, environment & recreational activities rank: 28

No. 43. Michigan

Emotional & physical well-being rank: 40
Work rank: 30
Community, environment & recreational activities rank: 39

No. 44. Ohio

Emotional & physical well-being rank: 45
Work rank: 24
Community, environment & recreational activities rank: 33

No. 45. Rhode Island

Emotional & physical well-being rank: 37
Work rank: 49
Community, environment & recreational activities rank: 35