Looking for a happier life? The key might not be more stuff, but a better place to live.

While we often chase happiness through pay raises or larger homes, research shows that our surroundings play a powerful role in shaping how we feel day to day. In fact, where you live could be the single most underrated factor influencing your emotional health, sense of purpose, and overall life satisfaction.

A recent study by WalletHub reveals the happiest cities in the United States — and they might surprise you.

How the Happiest U.S. Cities Were Ranked

WalletHub analyzed 182 major cities — including the 150 most populous cities in the country, plus at least two of the largest in every state — to determine where Americans are thriving the most.

They scored each city across three main dimensions:

Emotional & Physical Well-Being
Income & Employment
Community & Environment

From mental health stats and income levels to leisure time and community engagement, the study used 29 key metrics to create a happiness score out of 100.

Photo: unsplash.com/@matthiasmullie

America’s Top 10 Happiest Cities (2025)

Here are the cities that stood out for life satisfaction, strong communities, and healthy lifestyles:

1. Fremont, California
2. San Jose, California
3. Irvine, California
4. Sioux Falls, South Dakota
5. Overland Park, Kansas
6. Lincoln, Nebraska
7. Madison, Wisconsin
8. Scottsdale, Arizona
9. San Francisco, California
10. Huntington Beach, California

Why Fremont, CA, Is the Happiest City in the U.S.

With a happiness score of 73.54, Fremont earned the top spot thanks to impressive marks across nearly every category.

High Income Levels

While money isn’t everything, it helps — especially up to a certain threshold. Research suggests that well-being rises with income up to around $75,000/year. In Fremont, a whopping 80% of households exceed that benchmark, giving residents more freedom to invest in experiences, self-care, and community — all of which boost happiness.