Dennis RomeroLiving in California has its challenges, including high housing costs, struggling public schools and a system of justice that unfairly taxes the poor and people of color. But is it worth it?
Yes. That's the general consensus of an analysis by personal finance site WalletHub, which sought to determine 2016’s
California came in 10th place. The state was second best in the country for low rates of depression, a WalletHub spokeswoman said. We also ranked high for our relatively low obesity rates (sixth) and suicide rates (10th), she said.
For “emotional and physical well-being” we ranked fifth. For “community and environment” we ranked sixth. The Golden State didn't fare quite as well when it came to divorce (19th, with first place being the best), public safety (also 19th) and adequate sleep (23rd).
Strangely, we only ranked 24th in hedonism — or what the site describes as “personal expression of hedonism on social media” — so, apparently, the Kardashians need to work a little harder. Our lowest showing was for “work environment.” California placed 37th in that category.
But when you hear which states are the happiest in the nation, you'll be overjoyed that you live here. First place went to — gulp — Utah, which was followed by Minnesota, North Dakota, Hawaii and Colorado. OK, we're not going to drag our feet if you want to take us to Hawaii for some vacay. But home is here and, as you can see, it's a fairly happy place.
Credit: WalletHub
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