New Mexico – A new study released by Wallethub has ranked U.S. cities from highest to lowest stress levels. Surprisingly, Detroit topped the list of the most stressful cities, while South Burlington in Virginia came in as the least stressful.
The rankings were determined through various factors, including work, finances, family, and health/safety concerns. Essentially, a higher number indicates less stress.
Wallethub analyst Chip Lupo commented, saying that while some stressors—like family or work issues—are beyond control, the city one lives in can significantly impact their stress levels. Cities plagued by high crime rates, struggling economies, and congested transportation systems tend to create added stress for residents.
Interestingly, a survey conducted by CNBC/Surveymonkey in April 2025 found that 73% of Americans reported feeling financially stressed.
Professor Joan Gavin from Marist University highlighted that rising grocery prices are a significant contributor to financial strain. She pointed out that food prices in the U.S. have surged by 23.6% from 2020 to 2024, placing a heavy burden on many families.
Top 10 least stressful cities
- #1 – Detroit
- #2 – Cleveland, Ohio
- #3 – Baltimore
- #4 – Gulfport, Mississippi
- #5 – Memphis, Tennessee
- #6 – Shreveport, Louisiana
- #7 – Philadelphia
- #8 – Toledo, Ohio
- #9 – Birmingham, Alabama
- #10 – Jackson, Mississippi
On the other end of the spectrum, the cities with the most stress include South Burlington, Vermont, and Fremont, California, among others.
The data for this analysis draws from several reputable sources, like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). You can find the complete list on Wallethub.
The topic of stress, especially how we manage it, is becoming more prominent in discussions today.
Not long ago, former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy emphasized that the stress experienced by parents and caregivers often trickles down to their children, affecting families nationwide.
He noted that raising children is a critical job that, unfortunately, doesn’t always receive the recognition it deserves, even as it shapes society’s future.
