America's 10 happiest cities revealed

The top 10 happiest cities in America have been unveiled and the Golden State is home to 50 per cent of them. Fremont, California has been deemed the happiest city in America based on its financial stability, high life satisfaction, and healthy living conditions, a WalletHub study has revealed. The personal finance company measures happiness based on 29 metrics including depression rates, average daily leisure time, income-growth rates and more. Analysts say an 'ideal city' provides residents with living conditions that 'foster good mental and physical health', such as reasonable work hours, short commutes, good weather, caring neighbors and the ability to form strong social connections.

The study also found that cities where a substantial percentage of residents earn annual salaries of at least $75,000 are likely to have greater happiness. However, WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo warns that 'research shows that having more money only increases your happiness until you're making at least $75,000 per year – anything more you earn likely won't have an impact'. 'Therefore, when deciding where to live to maximize your happiness, you'll want to pick a city that offers more than just a decent average income,' he added. The study comes after the US dropped to 23rd in the World Happiness Report, falling outside the top 20 for the first time and recording its lowest ranking in the report's 12-year history.

Fremont, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, is the happiest city in America, the report has found. Residents have the highest rate of life satisfaction, the fifth-lowest depression rate, and the fourth-highest average life expectancy in America. Fremont also has the lowest separation and divorce rate in the country, at only 8.9 per cent. At nearly 80 per cent, the city also has highest share of households earning an income of more than $75,000 annually. Population: 226,208.

San Jose, also located in the San Francisco Bay Area, has one of the best overall health and wellness scores. It earns its second-ranking spot because many locals say they like where they live, feel safe and have pride in their community. Residents in San Jose also have the longest average life expectancy in the country. The city recorded the fourth-lowest separation and divorce rate and at 72 per cent. It also has the third-highest share of households with an annual income greater than $75,000. Population: 969,655.

Irvine, situated in the Orange County region of Southern California, is home to more than 3million people and has the third-highest percentage of healthy residents in the nation. More than 88 per cent of Irvine residents report having good or better health and nearly 84 per cent participate in physical activities, the study revealed. The city has the eighth-lowest depression rate. The city's high earnings threshold also contributed to it's third place ranking on the happiness list, with nearly 68 per cent of households recording an income of over $75,000 per year. Population: 314,621.

Sioux Falls earns its fourth place spot for having the ninth-highest emotional and physical well-being score in the nation. People in Sioux Falls are also far more likely than residents in other cities to get a good night’s sleep, WalletHub's study found. Additionally, South Dakota most populous city boasts a low unemployment rate and thriving economy, both of which contribute to personal happiness. Population: 206,410.

Overland Park has consistently been recognized as one of the happiest cities in America due to its low poverty and unemployment rates. Residents have recorded high emotional and physical well-being scores, with many citing access to good health care and leisurely activities as contributing factors. It also boasts a relatively low separation and divorce rate. Additionally, Overland Park is known for its strong sense of community and home to numerous parks and green spaces. Population: 197,089.

Nebraska's capital and second largest city is one of the happiest places to live due to its amenities and affordability. City officials say residents boast about Lincoln's cost-of-living, which they report is 7 per cent lower than the national average. Residents also hailed the city's public safety, public schools, infrastructure, and trails and parks, according to the local government. In addition to its family-friendly community, Lincoln is home to numerous historic sites and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus. Population: 294,757.

The capital city of Wisconsin often ranks high in happiness studies due to the high quality of life of its residents. Madison is considered a 'good place' to raise a family due to the city's strong community, good school districts, and access to nature. It also has a long history of being inclusive for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Population: 280,305.

Scottsdale residents have indicated having a high-quality of life, with many citing factors such as good jobs, friendly communities and beautiful scenery. The dessert city, located east of the Arizona capital Phoenix, ranked 15th in WalletHub's community and environment category. The cost-of-living in Scottsdale is reportedly 13 per cent higher than the national average, but US census data reveals it's median household income is $107,372 - well above the $75,000 salary that the study found is a key factor in happiness. Population: 244,394.

San Francisco has earned its spot on the happiness ranking due to its economy and vibrant culture. The city boasts one of the lowest financial stress rates in America and, according to recent US census data, a median household income of $136,689. San Francisco locals say they often make time of leisurely activities, with the city's mild climate making it ideal for a slew of outdoor activities. Roughly 61 per cent of residents have reported that they feel happy most of the time. Population: 808,988.

California, which has dominated the happiest cities list, rounds out the top 10 with Huntington Beach, located in the Greater Los Angeles area. The so-called Surf City is known for its beaches, vibrant nightlife and vast assortment of leisurely activities. Huntington Beach is considered an affluent area, recording a median household income that is 20 per cent higher than the rest of California. The city is home to more than 650 industrial businesses, but tourism and technology are its leading industries. Population: 192,129.

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