Proof That California is Not That Happy of a State

Living in California is a dream come true for many. Beaches, mountains, good food, perfect weather, sports, movies, and everything you could want are all in one state. Many around the country and the world dream of living in the Golden State. While some think it is the ultimate dream to live in California, are the people who live there truly happy? It depends on what makes you happy, but sometimes things are not as good as they seem. Despite what many may think, Californians might not be as happy as they appear.

The Happiest States in the Country

While there are things to make residents happy in California year-round, it does not rank among the happiest states in the country. WalletHub recently released a list ranking the happiest states in the country and did so using categories such as emotional and physical well-being, work environment, and community and environment. Using these criteria, it was determined that Hawaii is the happiest state in the country. With beautiful beaches, a laid-back culture, beautiful weather, and little care in the world, how can you not be happy in Hawaii every day? Coming in as the second happiest state is Maryland, with New Jersey rounding out the top three. The least happiest state is Louisiana, with Arkansas being the second least happiest, and West Virginia rounding out the bottom three. 

Are People in California Happy?

Despite what many think, California is not the happiest state and is not even in the top five. It doesn't even make the top ten happiest states in the country. California comes in on the list at 13. California is 9 in emotional and physical well-being but is 45 in work environment and 13 in community and environment. Work can take a toll in California, as everything is so expensive, that many have to work multiple jobs or many hours of overtime to be able to afford the lifestyle they choose. California is tied for the second-highest long-term unemployment rate in the country, adding to why the work environment is not happy for Californians. The Golden State is also third for lowest volunteer rate, but is also third for largest income growth which does add to the happiness in the state. 

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While there is plenty to like and enjoy about California, it doesn't mean it brings happiness. There is also plenty of traffic, high costs, and too many people. Sometimes, you might be in a much happier place, but overall California is still a happy place to live despite not being one of the ten happiest states. To see the full list broken down, make sure to click the link above.