Here’s a list of the happiest cities in America

The South does not rank well

What makes a town happy?

WalletHub has been crunching data to determine America’s happiest cities as we approach the International Day of Happiness next week.

The bad news is that we didn’t make the list.

The good news is that we also aren’t on the naughty list.

WalletHub used 29 indicators of happiness from depression rates to income growth.

Fremont, California is the happiest town.

In fact, the only southern town to make the top 20 was Charleston, South Carolina.

But it could be a lot worse.

Huntington, West Virginia has the highest depression rate.

Casper, Wyoming has the highest suicide rate.

Cleveland, Ohio has the highest divorce rate.

Detroit gets the least sleep.

And New York City has the longest commutes.

The experts say money isn’t everything.

Good weather, green spaces and short commutes all contribute to happiness.

“The American Psychological Association regularly reports that money and the economy are among the top sources of stress for Americans. When unemployment rises or markets feel unstable, anxiety spreads beyond those directly affected. At the same time, booming cities can create their own pressure. Rapid growth often leads to rising housing costs and longer work hours. Higher GDP does not always equal higher life satisfaction… Happiness is rarely about one variable. It is about manageable stress, meaningful work, strong relationships, and a sense that your environment supports rather than undermines you.”
Andrew Burnstine, Ph.D – Associate Professor, Lynn University

Top 20 Happiest Cities in America

1. Fremont, CA
11. Burlington, VT
2. Bismarck, ND
12. Madison, WI
3. Scottsdale, AZ
13. Columbia, MD
4. South Burlington, VT
14. Chandler, AZ
5. Fargo, ND
15. Seattle, WA
6. Overland Park, KS
16. Plano, TX
7. Charleston, SC
17. San Francisco, CA
8. Irvine, CA
18. Lincoln, NE
9. Gilbert, AZ
19. Portland, ME
10. San Jose, CA
20. Tempe, AZ