These Are the Most Stressed-Out States in America, According to a New Study
It’s no secret that Americans are feeling overwhelmed these days. Between inflation, work burnout, health concerns, and constant bad news, many people are carrying more stress than ever. But some states are struggling more than others, and where you live may play a bigger role in your anxiety levels than you think.
A new study analyzed all 50 U.S. states using 40 key indicators of stress, including everything from average hours worked to household income, sleep quality, credit scores, job security, health stats, and even divorce rates. The goal? To find out which states are home to the most stressed-out Americans—and why.
While no state is completely stress-free, the results show stark differences depending on geography and economic conditions. Below are the 10 most stressed states in the country, and what’s making life especially difficult for residents in each one. Do you live in one of these states?
1. New Mexico
Topping the list is New Mexico, which earned the unenviable title of the most stressed-out state in America. Several factors contribute to this ranking, but safety is a huge concern—New Mexico has the highest rate of violent and property crime per capita in the country. That alone would put residents on edge, but it doesn’t stop there.
The state also has one of the highest separation and divorce rates, a low median credit score, and one of the highest poverty rates in the U.S. More than 18% of residents live in poverty, and many struggle with limited access to healthcare and mental health services. Financial stress, personal safety concerns, and strained relationships are creating a perfect storm of anxiety.
2. Nevada
Nevada comes in second, and much of the state’s stress is tied to economic instability. With the highest unemployment rate in the nation and a high percentage of residents with poor credit, it’s no surprise that financial worries are top of mind. Nevada also sees one of the highest bankruptcy filing rates, suggesting many residents are in over their heads when it comes to debt.
On top of that, Nevada ranks near the top for divorce and separation rates, adding a layer of emotional stress. And while Las Vegas may be marketed as a place for fun and escape, the reality for many locals is anything but relaxing.
3. Louisiana
Louisiana has long struggled with poverty and healthcare access, and those issues are a major source of stress for its residents. The state has the second-highest poverty rate in the country and ranks poorly in both physical and mental health metrics. A significant number of adults haven’t seen a doctor in the past year due to cost concerns, and the state is also in the bottom tier for mental health support.
Add in low educational attainment and a high rate of single-parent households, and it’s clear that Louisiana’s challenges are both systemic and deeply personal for many of its residents. The daily stressors here are less about a single crisis and more about a long list of compounding struggles.
4. West Virginia
West Virginia’s stress levels are largely rooted in health problems. The state has the highest percentage of adults reporting poor or fair health, and many struggle with chronic conditions that affect both quality of life and financial well-being. Sleep deprivation is also a serious issue—residents here report among the lowest average hours of sleep per night in the country.
Financial instability adds to the burden. West Virginia ranks poorly in household income, credit scores, and job growth, and it also has a high rate of divorce and single-parent families. These intersecting stressors make daily life a challenge for many in the Mountain State.
5. Mississippi
Mississippi ranks near the bottom nationally in a number of well-being metrics, and it shows in the state’s overall stress level. Nearly 1 in 5 adults live below the poverty line, and average credit scores are among the worst in the country. This constant financial pressure contributes to anxiety over everything from housing to healthcare.
Mississippi also has limited access to mental and physical healthcare providers, making it harder for people to get help when they’re struggling. Add in job insecurity and low educational outcomes, and the environment becomes one where stress is hard to escape.
6. Tennessee
Tennessee is another state where residents are feeling overwhelmed, especially when it comes to work and money-related stress. The state has a high percentage of residents working long hours, and many report difficulty balancing job demands with family responsibilities.
Safety concerns are also prominent—Tennessee has one of the highest violent crime rates in the U.S., which adds another layer of unease. And while the cost of living may be lower than some coastal states, wages haven’t kept up, leaving many residents feeling stretched thin financially.
7. Arkansas
Arkansas doesn’t rank worst in any single category, but it consistently shows up near the top in several areas of concern. The state has one of the highest obesity and smoking rates, and many residents report chronic health conditions and poor sleep. Access to healthcare is limited in rural areas, which only adds to the stress.
Financial pressure is also high—Arkansas has a low median income, a high percentage of people living in poverty, and limited access to financial resources like credit and savings. These combined challenges make life feel like an uphill battle for many.
8. Alabama
In Alabama, stress stems largely from a combination of economic and healthcare concerns. The state has one of the lowest median household incomes, and many residents struggle with low credit scores and high debt levels. Alabama also ranks poorly for both physical and mental health, with limited access to care in many communities.
The state’s high rates of chronic disease, obesity, and food insecurity only add to the stress burden, particularly in rural areas where resources are few and far between. For many, it’s a struggle just to meet basic needs.
Of course, not every state is grappling with stress to this degree. Some are actually thriving, with stronger economies, better access to health care, and lower crime rates. If you’re curious, here are the least stressed states in America, based on the same comprehensive study.
9. Florida
Florida might be known as a sunny vacation spot, but for many residents, the day-to-day reality is anything but relaxing. The state’s rapidly rising cost of living, especially housing, has put a serious strain on budgets, particularly for those on fixed or moderate incomes. Many Floridians are worried about housing affordability and job security, especially in areas reliant on tourism.
And while Florida doesn’t score as poorly in health or work stress, it has a high percentage of uninsured residents, which can make any medical issue a source of major anxiety. Financial pressure combined with uncertainty about the future lands Florida on this list.
10. Oregon
Oregon rounds out the top 10, largely due to mental and emotional health challenges. The state has one of the highest percentages of adults reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as a high rate of sleep deprivation. Despite efforts to improve mental health access, long wait times and provider shortages remain a concern.
Family-related stress is also high. Oregon has one of the highest divorce and separation rates, and many residents report difficulty maintaining a work-life balance. And while the natural beauty of the state may be calming, the reality for many Oregonians is far more stressful.
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