Bay Staters have cause to celebrate that Massachusetts is one of the happiest states to live in, according to a new study from WalletHub.
Using data from a series of published research projects, the finance company ranked all 50 states based on metrics like the depression rate, the share of adults feeling productive, income growth and the local unemployment rate to determine which were the most happy.
Massachusetts ranked among the top 10, just behind its neighbor New Hampshire. Hawaii, Maryland and Nebraska took the top three spots.
The Bay State earned excellent marks for emotional and physical well-being, thanks in part to the state’s excellent healthcare offerings.
Massachusetts also ranked in the top 10 for best work environments and in the top five for safety— something the state has become known for. In fact, two Massachusetts cities were recently named among the most prosperous and safe in the nation.
“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 WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo. “The happiest states are those that provide above-average quality of life in a wide variety of areas, from strong state economies and high quality physical and mental health care to adequate amounts of leisure time and good weather.”
