U.S. News
The 10 Best Cities for Happiness in the U.S.
By Jake Beardslee · August 22, 2025
The 10 Best Cities for Happiness in the U.S.
What makes people happy isn’t only about the number on a paycheck. A new study from WalletHub suggests that where you live could play just as large a role in shaping contentment and quality of life.Researchers evaluated 182 of the most populous U.S. cities across three main categories: emotional and physical well-being, income and employment, and community and environment. Metrics ranged from life expectancy and depression rates to commute times, safety, and local weather conditions.
As WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo explained, “Research shows that having more money only increases your happiness until you’re making at least $75,000 per year—anything more you earn likely won’t have an impact.” Instead, choosing a city that supports both mental and physical health, offers supportive communities, and provides balance between work and leisure can play a defining role in personal happiness.
Drawing from data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other federal sources, WalletHub identified the nation’s 10 happiest cities. Paul Hanaoka / Unsplash
10. Huntington Beach, California
Nicknamed “Surf City USA,” Huntington Beach lives up to its reputation with ten miles of sandy shoreline and a thriving surf and beach culture. Located just south of Los Angeles, the city combines oceanfront living with a growing food scene, attracting both locals and visitors with its relaxed but lively atmosphere. Trac Vu / Unsplasb
9. San Francisco, California
San Francisco remains one of the country’s most vibrant cultural hubs, with its walkable neighborhoods, strong job market, and renowned public transit system. With more than 240 sunny days a year and mild summer temperatures, the city also earned top marks for emotional and physical well-being, thanks to high levels of sports participation and overall health. Joshua Sortino / Unsplash
8. Scottsdale, Arizona
Nestled in the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale blends luxury with outdoor beauty. Known for its spas, golf courses, and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West, the city enjoys nearly 300 sunny days a year. It ranked highly in income and employment metrics, reflecting strong job opportunities and a reputation as a retirement haven. Matthew Hamilton / Unsplash
7. Madison, Wisconsin
Home to the University of Wisconsin, Madison offers both a lively college-town atmosphere and a family-friendly environment. Residents enjoy outdoor activities, cultural events, and a highly regarded food scene. It ranked among the top cities for community engagement and earned praise for overall quality of life. Neil Bates / Unsplash
6. Lincoln, Nebraska
Nebraska’s capital came out on top in the community and environment category. Lincoln balances a suburban feel with a vibrant downtown filled with cafes, bars, and green spaces. High rates of homeownership and a strong sense of community support helped lift the city to its top ranking in this measure. Pieter van de Sande / Unsplash
5. Overland Park, Kansas
As the second-largest city in Kansas, Overland Park combines family-friendly amenities with a thriving cultural scene. Ranked fourth in emotional and physical well-being, it also gained recognition as one of the best places in the country to raise a family and purchase a home. Cityofop, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
4. Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Sioux Falls pairs small-town charm with suburban conveniences and abundant access to nature. A strong job market, low cost of living, and plentiful outdoor recreation options helped it land in the top five. It also ranked well in both community engagement and physical well-being. Maxpower2727, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
3. Irvine, California
Irvine’s reputation for safety, schools, and green spaces is well-earned. Nearly 90% of residents report being in good health, and physical activity levels are among the highest in the country. With low divorce rates, long life expectancy, and robust mental health metrics, Irvine consistently ranks as one of the healthiest and happiest cities in the nation. Ariel Blanco / Unsplash
2. San Jose, California
Known as the “Capital of Silicon Valley,” San Jose offers a warm climate, diverse communities, and the nation’s longest life expectancy. Nearly three-quarters of households earn more than $75,000 annually, while residents report strong pride in their neighborhoods and personal safety. The city also ranks among the best places in the U.S. to raise a family. Payton Chung, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
1. Fremont, California
Fremont tops WalletHub’s ranking as the happiest city in America. Nearly 80% of households earn above $75,000, while divorce and mental health distress rates are the lowest in the country. Strong schools, community safety, and plentiful outdoor spaces bolster the city’s reputation as a place where residents thrive. As former mayor Lily Mei put it, Fremont has become “a beacon of happiness and well-being.” Oleg Alexandrov, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons