Utah residents are among the most connected and community-minded in the nation, according to a new report from the nonprofit organization SmileHub. The “Best States for Community Connection” study ranked Utah second overall for 2025, crediting its high volunteerism, strong economic security, and above-average “kindness” ranking.
The report measured each state across 21 indicators, from volunteer rates and charitable giving to crime and poverty rates. Utah ranked first in the nation for volunteerism and first for economic security in the Sharecare Well-Being Index. It also placed fifth in “state kindness” and 12th for violent crime rates.
There is great contrast among Utah’s neighbors. Wyoming ranks 13th with Idaho 24th, but Colorado ranks 31st, Arizona 41st and Nevada 48th. Only New Mexico and Louisiana ranked lower than Nevada.
SmileHub’s findings come as national pride and civic engagement have waned. A Gallup survey this year found that only 58% of U.S. adults say they feel extremely or very proud to be American — the lowest level since polling began in 2001.
The organization said it released the report ahead of the holidays to emphasize how local volunteerism and social connection strengthen communities.