It's Official: Hawaii and Maryland Are the Happiest States, According to a New Study—Find Out Where Yours Ranks

For some, happiness comes from spending time with loved ones; for others, even a simple trip to the garden can impart joy. But according to WalletHub's new study, where you live impacts your happiness levels, too—and some states have happier residents than other.

To identify the "happiest states" in the United States, the team factored in 30 metrics under three categories—emotional and physical well-being, work environment, and community and environment—and gave each state a score. Based on their research, Hawaii, with a total tally of 66.31, topped the list. The state led in the emotional and physical well-being category, receiving the number-one ranking overall.

Maryland and Minnesota rounded out the top three: The former—clocking in at number two—received an overall score of 62.6, ranking high in the community and environment category, while the latter stood out in the work environment sector (this state is apparently the second-best place to work in the country!). Minnesota also scored within the top five for the best sleep rates and volunteerism.

Want to see how your home state scored in the happiness department? Discover the 20 most joyful places, below—and check out Wallethub's research for the full list.

The Happiest States Across the Country

1. Hawaii
2. Maryland
3. Minnesota
4. Utah
5. New Jersey
6. Idaho
7. California
8. Illinois
9. Nebraska
10. Connecticut
11. Virginia
12. South Dakota
13. North Dakota
14. Massachusetts
15. New Hampshire
16. Iowa
17. Delaware
18. Florida
19. Georgia
20. North Carolina