The Happiest State In The US Is A Popular Tourist Getaway With Warm Weather And Beautiful Coastal Views

What makes a person happy? Everything from personal relationships to the place you call home can impact your overall well-being. A recent WalletHub study found that Hawaii is the happiest state in the country to live in — and it's easy to see why. With places like Kekaha Kai State Park and its crowd-free beach, scenic hikes, and oceanside views, the island chain offers residents a daily dose of paradise.

To find out which states truly deliver on happiness, WalletHub examined economic, emotional, physical, and social health across the United States, looking at factors such as depression rates, feelings of productivity, unemployment, and income growth. Analyst Chip Lupo explained, "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."

According to the analysis, Hawaiians reported the highest levels of life satisfaction and had the second-lowest depression rate. Of the adults who live on the islands, 85% also report being in good health, and the state is home to the longest life expectancy in the country.

Beyond the numbers, Hawaii's happiness comes down to lifestyle. The Aloha spirit shapes how residents connect, relax, and enjoy the islands' natural beauty. As Hawaiian writer Stanford K. Kekauoha puts it, "Happiness is all about helping people on their life's journey. ... Living aloha means sharing your life force with others, sharing your soul." He also says residents understand their role in the larger "ohana" or family on the island and treat their friends, family, and community as interconnected parts of a greater whole.

Residents also get to take advantage of the islands' natural wonders. From rugged jungle hikes to sunrise surfs, to breathtaking coastal views, and some of the most beautiful snorkeling destinations, Hawaiians have these experiences right outside their doors. The weather doesn't hurt either. With mild temps in the 70s and 80s year-round, it's easy to spend more time outside. And while the rain can bring some humidity, showers are usually quick and localized. Research also shows that exposure to sunlight and vitamin D are natural mood boosters.

Hawaii also places a big emphasis on carving out leisure time, and residents benefit from strong access to quality physical and mental health care. When you combine this with nearly perfect weather, daily outdoor activities, strong community ties, and cultural traditions, it's easy to see why Hawaiians make up the happiest state in the nation.

However, happiness in Hawaii isn't without its complexities. One Hawaiian blog highlights a paradox – despite the beauty and camaraderie across the state, many residents face high living costs, work pressure, and natural disasters. A University of Hawaii study showed that in 2023, "Only one in five local households could afford a mortgage on the median-priced single-family home in the state." In 2025, the average cost of a home was over a million dollars. Hawaii's tourism may be on a decline, but spending has been up in recent years. Luckily, the state still maintains one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, helping residents sustain financial stability even amid these pressures.

Tourism also plays a role in the broader happiness ecosystem. The Aloha spirit has long been a major draw for visitors, who often seek the same sense of connection and well-being that residents enjoy. But some tourists have expressed frustrations with long waits, surprise fees, and feeling unwelcome. One tourist told the Beat of Hawaii, "I love Hawaii. But the last two trips felt more stressful than relaxing. It was like I had to fight for every reservation, every parking space, and every smile." Luckily, there are ways to alleviate some stress. Visiting during the off-season, exploring lesser-known areas, and connecting with local culture can help travelers experience the islands' serenity.

While Hawaii tops WalletHub's 2025 happiness rankings, other states also offer strong well-being. Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, and Connecticut round out the top five, each boasting its own mix of healthy communities, economic stability, and quality-of-life perks. What sets Hawaii apart, though, is the unique ways in which nature, culture, and daily life merge, creating a lifestyle that turns paradise into an everyday experience.