Just 5 More Hours Outside a Month Could Change Everything, Study Finds
Most of us say we love being outside, but the numbers tell a different story. According to Tractor Supply’s Outdoor Happiness Report, Americans are spending far more time staring at screens than soaking up fresh air. And yet, even small shifts outdoors can make a huge difference for stress, happiness, and overall well-being.
Here are 10 findings from the study that might make you want to put your phone down and head for the door.
1. We spend more time scrolling than strolling
The average American spends 109% more time on their phone than walking outside each month. For Gen Z, that gap climbs even higher to 134%. It’s not just a generational quirk either—heavy screen use directly correlates with higher stress levels.
2. Americans only average 10 hours outside each week
Despite the benefits, Americans are only clocking about 10 hours a week outdoors, which is just a fraction of the 310 hours of free time most of us have each month. That means there’s plenty of untapped time that could be swapped for sunlight and fresh air.
3. Gardening is the top happiness booster
When it comes to outdoor hobbies, gardening ranks #1 for increasing happiness, averaging a 7.1 out of 10 on the happiness scale. A small herb patch or flower bed could bring more joy than another hour scrolling through social feeds.
4. Just five extra hours makes a big difference
Adding five more hours outdoors each month can increase happiness by 43%. That’s less than ten minutes a day. It’s proof that small, intentional shifts in routine can carry real weight for mental health.
5. Landscaped lawns lift our moods
Americans with landscaped lawns report being 25% happier than those without private outdoor space. Even a tiny green patch to call your own seems to act as a built-in mood reset button.
6. Iowa tops the list of outdoorsy states
Location plays a role, too. Iowa ranked as the most outdoorsy state, with residents leading in visits to green spaces, wildlife watching, and biking. Ohio and Wisconsin followed close behind, showing the Midwest is an outdoor lifestyle hub.
7. Outdoor time beats screen breaks for stress
People who spend more than 40 hours a week on their phones are 21% more likely to feel stressed than those who limit their scrolling. A short walk outside is often a better reset than another “quick” scroll that spirals into an hour.
8. Women garden more, men fish more
The gender split was clear: women are 41% more likely to garden, while men are 125% more likely to fish. Yet less than half of men regularly just sit outdoors, which might be the simplest stress-buster of all.
9. Dog owners are happier
Owning a dog isn’t just about companionship. Dog owners reported higher happiness scores than the national average of 6.7. Walks, fresh air, and wagging tails add up to a powerful outdoor motivator.
10. Weather is the biggest barrier
The top barrier to more outdoor time is weather (59%), followed by lack of time (43%) and work obligations (34%). Even bugs made the list, with 17% blaming pests for staying inside. While no one can control the forecast, making the most of good days can help balance out the bad.
Bottom line
Touching grass (literally) does wonders. Whether it’s gardening, walking the dog, or finding a “third space” like a park or trail, the research is clear: the outdoors deserves a bigger place in our lives.
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