The Three Healthiest States in the U.S.

Do you feel as though the status of your health is at least partially based upon your surroundings? Personally, I do. If I am constantly around people who are conscious of what they are eating and who prioritize exercise and an overall healthy lifestyle, then I feel as though I am more likely to do the same. Contrastedly, if I’m surrounded by people who are eating poorly and skipping exercise, then I will tend to follow suit. And it’s interesting to think about how this works on a grander scale.

So, does where you live affect your health more so than one might assume? If you live in a city or even in a state where people are, generally speaking, healthy and active, is this motivation enough for you to also be healthy and active? With that in mind, here are the top three healthiest states in America:

#3: California

The sunshine state does more than just boast a healthy dose of vitamin D year round- it also has one of the lowest obesity rates in the country, at just under 25 percent. At least partially due to the mild climate, Californians are some of the most active people in the United States. Furthermore, California has some of the lowest rates of smoking. The average life expectancy in California is just above 80 years. The downside? California also has one of the highest rates of uninsured residents.

#2: Minnesota

With an average life expectancy of 81 years, Minnesotans have extraordinarily low rates of both drug use and obesity, two factors which contribute to an overwhelming number of deaths around the country. Furthermore, there are low levels of cardiovascular disease in the Land of 10,000 Lakes and the residents are considered to be relatively active, despite cold winters. The downside is that Minnesota also sees a large rate of binge drinking among adults.

#1: Hawaii

Hawaiians are reknown for their physical and mental health, which shouldn’t come as a surprise, given that they inhabit one of the most beautiful and mild places on earth. The people are active, they generally eat a good and balanced diet with plenty of locally sourced fresh fruits and veggies, and there is a low rate of smoking and their rates of health insurance coverage are way above average. The average life expectancy in Hawaii is over 81 years, which is the highest in the nation.

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