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Maryland Ranked Second-Happiest State in 2025 Study

9/11/2025

Summary

Story summary

WalletHub's 2025 study ranks Maryland as the second-happiest state in the U.S., after Hawaii and before Nebraska.
The study assesses happiness through 30 metrics, including emotional and physical well-being, work environment, and community support.
Maryland features a low unemployment rate of 3.2% and a significant percentage of households earning over $75,000.
Residents experience low work-related stress and high motivation for personal goals.
The state has the fifth-lowest suicide rate and ranks third in emotional and physical well-being.

History

Historical Context

Following the Great Recession of 2007-2009, the U.S. economy began to recover significantly by 2015, with Maryland's unemployment rate dropping to 3.2%. This economic improvement contributed to over 30% of households earning above $75,000, highlighting the link between economic stability and community well-being, as reflected in WalletHub's 2025 happiness ranking, where Maryland was noted as the second-happiest state.

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Story summary

WalletHub's 2025 study ranks Maryland as the second-happiest state in the U.S., after Hawaii and before Nebraska.
The study assesses happiness through 30 metrics, including emotional and physical well-being, work environment, and community support.
Maryland features a low unemployment rate of 3.2% and a significant percentage of households earning over $75,000.
Residents experience low work-related stress and high motivation for personal goals.
The state has the fifth-lowest suicide rate and ranks third in emotional and physical well-being.

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