WalletHub has posted an analysis of the most and least stressed states in 2026. States were graded based on 40 indicators across four main categories: stress related to work, money, family, and health & safety.
Louisiana was found to be the most stressed state overall and ranked number one in the work-related stress category. They also have the lowest job security. Chip Lupo, WalletHub Analyst attributed Louisiana’s rating to financial barriers, stating “Louisiana ranks as the most stressed state, in large part because it has the highest poverty rate in the country. It also ranks among the 10 worst states for both the share of adults reporting poor mental health and the share of adults diagnosed with depression. Residents may also find it difficult to find someone to address mental health issues, since Louisiana has fewer psychologists per capita than most other states.”
The other top stressed states rank as follows:
- Kentucky
- New Mexico
- West Virginia
- Arkansas
Additional key findings:
- New Mexico ranked higher than all other states in family-related stress.
- Arkansas had the top number of health & safety-related stress.
- Mississippi was the most financially stressed, with the highest poverty rates.
- South Dakota had the least amount of stress, followed by Utah and Minnesota.
- Alaska works the most hours in one week but was ranked #24 on the list.
- Utah has the lowest average work hours per week.
- Vermont sleeps the most, while Hawaii sleeps the least.
- Vermont has the healthiest residents, while West Virginia has more residents in poor health.
- Texas has the highest job security of the 50 states.
Experts Andrew Burnstine, Ph.D. and Christian P. Neuman shared advice for combatting stress without adding to expenses. They suggested activities like rhythmic breathing and spending time outside, exercising, etc.
Here is what they recommended:
“Finding stress relief without spending money is often about tapping into free biological resets. For instance, practicing rhythmic breathing or vocal toning costs nothing but can physically lower your heart rate in seconds. Nature is another powerful pharmacy, as research shows that just 20 minutes in a park or near water can significantly lower cortisol levels,” Dr. Burnstine said.
Neuman continued, “You can also join groups that focus on activities that do not require spending money regularly, such as a local sports league, volunteer organization, or community theatre. Local libraries may also offer a fun option.” She also emphasized the importance of getting more sleep and consuming less caffeine. She concluded, “Finally, try to stay away from things that trigger the urge to spend. Social media can be particularly problematic because it encourages comparison. Instead of watching other people do fun things, focus on finding ways to do things you enjoy yourself.”
