LOGAN — Utah ranks as the second least-stressed state in the nation, according to a new analysis from WalletHub, highlighting a broader trend of lower stress levels across the Intermountain West, including neighboring Idaho.
The report places Utah 49th overall for stress, where a ranking of No. 1 represents the highest stress levels. Idaho ranks 45th, making it the fifth least-stressed state in the country.
WalletHub evaluated all 50 states using 40 indicators across four categories: work-related stress, money-related stress, family-related stress and health and safety concerns.
For Utah, several metrics contributed to its low-stress ranking. The state ranked last in the nation for average hours worked per week and divorce rate, and near the bottom for poverty levels, suggesting relatively stable economic and family conditions.
However, the report also found some mixed results. Utah ranked 44th for job security and 41st for psychologists per capita, indicating potential gaps in workforce stability and access to mental health services.
WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo said location can play a significant role in stress levels.
“There are plenty of small ways for people to manage stress,” Lupo said. “What many people don’t realize, though, is that changing location can also be a big stress reducer.”
The findings come as Americans continue to report high levels of stress tied to economic concerns, work pressures and social disconnection. Nearly 70% of adults say they needed more emotional support in the past year, according to data cited in the report.
In Northern Utah, the ranking reinforces a broader perception of quality of life tied to economic stability, outdoor access and community connections. While the WalletHub study does not break down results by region, many of the factors measured—such as commute times, employment conditions and family stability—are often cited as strengths in Cache County and surrounding areas.