The Happiest Cities In America

Put On A Happy Place

Inspired by positive psychology, WalletHub looked at 29 factors, including rates of depression, the percentage of people getting a good night’s sleep, and income to determine the happiest cities in America. Let’s see which American cities will put a smile on your face. 


1. Fremont, California

In addition to their other findings, the researchers discovered that more money does equal more happiness—but not beyond earnings of $75,000 a year. Topping the list with a 74% score, Fremont has the highest percentage of households earning $75,000 or more per year, nearly 80%, which is a significant factor in the city's good vibes.

street in Fremont, North Carolina

Indy beetle, CC0, Wikimedia Commons

2. Overland Park, Kansas

And dropping to the upper 60s, the second-happiest city has our lowest poverty rate and great sports participation. There’s also lots of sleep after, so it checks off some great positive-psychology boxes!

Photo of Overland Park

Chris Murphy, Flickr

3. San Jose, California

Also in California is San Jose, taking the spot for third place. It tops life expectancy for city dwellers as well as low rates of divorce, separation, and depression, so a whole lot less stress all around.

Downtown San Jose , CA

mplstodd, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

4. Madison, Wisconsin

Coming in at #4 is Madison, Wisconsin, runner-up for the percentage of residents getting enough shut-eye—but that’s not to say it’s a sleepy town. Remember, well-rested means perky in the morning!

Aerial View of Campus, with Helen C. White Hall in foreground

college.library, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons