The most optimistic state in the US in 2024 is far, far away

Want to feel good about the future? Move to the sticks.

Wyoming residents are the most optimistic in the United States in 2024, according to a new study that evaluated each of the fifty states and ranked them from brightest to worst.

The State of Equality was ranked 7.2 out of 10 to take first place in a national survey of optimism and well-being in America, conducted by Icelandic Provisions Skyr, a yogurt brand, in partnership with Wakefield Research and Dr. Deepika Chopra, known as “Doctor of Optimism.”

Scores were ranked from 0 to 10 based on 10 metrics, including how likely they were to persevere in challenging situations and how often they ate a healthy breakfast.

In Wyoming, 82% of people wake up “ready to take on the day,” compared to 62% of all Americans. A whopping 98% of residents are willing to retry failed projects, compared to 90% of Americans.

“As Americans look for ways to navigate everyday challenges, they are increasingly recognizing the vital role that healthy habits and nutrient-dense food play in supporting their overall emotional well-being,” said Dr. Chopra in a statement.

“The results of this survey highlight just this connection…incorporating small healthy habits can play a crucial role in fostering optimism and a resilient spirit.”

Those in California and New Jersey tied for second place, ranking (7.1) for the easiest outlook on life — followed by Alabama and Maryland, which tied for third (7.0).

Stereotypically tough New Yorkers weren’t far behind scoring a 6.9 along with North Dakota, Minnesota, Nebraska, Missouri, Michigan, South Carolina and Massachusetts.

The 5 most optimistic states in America

1. Wyoming
2. California
3. New Jersey
4. Alabama
5. Maryland

Texas and Mississippi ranked as the least optimistic states at 6.2.

Those in the Golden State seem to have healthy habits and a mentality to match the great color.

More Californians feel well-rested (43%) compared to just 35% of Americans who wake up bleary-eyed.

The vast majority of these healthy West Coasters start their day with a nutritious breakfast as often as they can—only 62% of Americans do.

Meanwhile, optimistic New Jersey residents believe they get “enough” exercise (43%) compared to just a third of all Americans.

Experts said all healthy habits positively benefit one’s emotional health and optimism.

Optimistic Americans are divided by more than state lines—there’s also a generational divide.

Baby Boomers were found to be the most optimistic generation with an optimism index of 7.1, followed by Millennials (6.7), Gen X (6.5) and Gen Z (6.4).

Overall, Americans maintain a remarkable sense of personal optimism with the National Optimism Index Score standing at 6.7 out of 10.

Experts noted that adopting healthy daily habits, such as starting the day with a healthy breakfast, exploring the outdoors and exercising, can not only improve your physical health, but also improve your mindset.

Meanwhile, when it comes to politics, much of that optimism seems to be going out the window, with a majority of US voters saying the country is headed in the wrong direction, according to a poll released over the summer. .

Conducted by The Center Square, new research found that 65% of voters did not like the way things were going.

Only 24% of Americans said the country is headed in the right direction, while 11% were unsure.