In a country renowned for its industrious spirit and relentless work ethic, certain cities stand out for the opposite reason: pervasive inactivity. These urban areas exemplify a lifestyle where physical exertion is minimal, and sedentary habits prevail. This list explores the laziest cities in America, highlighting the surprising statistics from Wallethub, underlying factors, and significant health implications associated with these locales.
Burlington, Vermont
According to WalletHub, Burlington is labeled as the laziest city in the nation. Despite its vibrant community and outdoor activities, Burlington has a notably higher poverty rate, with Census data indicating that 8.9% of its residents earn less than $10,000 annually, which is nearly double the rate for both the state and the county.
The irony of Burlington’s ranking lies in its active lifestyle culture, suggesting that leisure activities may not always translate into economic productivity.
Bridgeport, Connecticut
Bridgeport ranks 111th out of 116 cities in WalletHub’s study on the hardest-working cities in America. This low ranking is due to factors like average work hours, employment rates, and the percentage of adults not participating in the workforce. The city’s economic challenges contribute to its poor performance in terms of productivity.
Detroit, Michigan
Detroit’s inclusion in the list of laziest cities, placed at 115, highlights ongoing economic challenges. Detroit struggles with high unemployment rates and significant portions of its population report no physical activity during leisure time. As of March 2023, the most recent survey from the University of Michigan’s Detroit Metro Area Communities Study found that 16% of Detroit residents in the labor force were unemployed.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee ranks low in WalletHub’s study, placing 102nd out of 116. This ranking is influenced by factors such as the percentage of adults working multiple jobs and the average weekly work hours.
The total score for Milwaukee is 52.85. This score is derived from factors directly and indirectly related to work. Milwaukee ranks 108th in direct work factors and 10th in indirect work factors. So, while it doesn’t perform as well in direct work factors compared to other cities, it performs relatively better in indirect work factors.
New York, New York
Despite being one of the most iconic cities globally, New York City finds itself on the lower end of WalletHub’s hardest-working cities list, ranking 99th. With a total score of 53.70, it ranks 101st in direct work factors and 44th in indirect work factors. This suggests that despite its bustling image, many residents do not adhere to extremely rigorous work schedules
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Baton Rouge ranks 100th in WalletHub’s study, reflecting significant challenges in employment and work-hour metrics. The city’s economic struggles, coupled with a high percentage of adults reporting poor health and low physical activity levels, underscore its position as one of the laziest cities in the U.S.
Stockton, California
Stockton’s ranking of 104th highlights economic difficulties and a high percentage of residents working multiple jobs to make ends meet. The city’s placement suggests a population grappling with economic instability and limited opportunities for stable, full-time employment.
San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino, California, is positioned at 107th with a total score of 50.62. The city ranks 105th in direct work factors and 83rd in indirect work factors, reflecting a focus on leisure and relaxation.
Madison, WI
Madison, Wisconsin, is ranked as the 101st hardest-working city in the United States. With a total score of 52.98, Madison ranks 99th in direct work factors and 104th in indirect work factors. Despite being known for its vibrant university culture, the city exhibits a laid-back work ethic.
Bridgeport, CT
Bridgeport, Connecticut, is positioned at 111th with a total score of 48.31. Bridgeport ranks 112th in direct work factors and 4th in indirect work factors. Despite being a significant economic center, the city shows a relaxed work ethic.
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is positioned at 102nd with a total score of 52.85. The city ranks 108th in direct work factors and 10th in indirect work factors, indicating a significant focus on factors outside the workplace, contributing to a less demanding work life.
Charleston, WV
Charleston, West Virginia, ranks 103rd with a total score of 52.61. It stands at 86th in direct work factors and 116th in indirect work factors, reflecting a relaxed working culture in the state capital.
Stockton, CA
Stockton, California, is ranked 104th with a total score of 52.28. It ranks 106th in direct work factors and 15th in indirect work factors. Stockton’s position highlights a more relaxed working environment in this Central Valley city.
Tucson, AZ
Tucson, Arizona, comes in at 105th with a total score of 51.94. Tucson ranks 102nd in direct work factors and 99th in indirect work factors. The city’s warm climate and scenic beauty contribute to a more leisurely lifestyle.
Providence, RI
Providence, Rhode Island, is ranked 106th with a total score of 51.60. It stands at 107th in direct work factors and 26th in indirect work factors, indicating a less demanding work environment despite being a major cultural and educational hub.
Cleveland, OH
Cleveland, Ohio, takes the 109th spot with a total score of 50.00. Cleveland ranks 110th in direct work factors and 23rd in indirect work factors, highlighting a significant emphasis on non-work-related activities.
Columbia, SC
Columbia, South Carolina, is ranked 108th with a total score of 50.33. The city’s direct work factors rank is 103, and its indirect work factors rank is 113. As the state capital and a college town, Columbia maintains a balanced yet laid-back work culture.
Fresno, CA
Fresno, California, is ranked 110th with a total score of 48.86. Fresno ranks 109th in direct work factors and 82nd in indirect work factors. The city’s agricultural base contributes to a slower-paced work environment.
Toledo, OH
Toledo, Ohio, is ranked 112th with a total score of 47.50. Toledo stands at 111th in direct work factors and 52nd in indirect work factors, indicating a more leisurely approach to work.
Newark, NJ
Newark, New Jersey, is positioned at 113th with a total score of 43.19. Newark ranks 113th in direct work factors and 45th in indirect work factors. The city’s close proximity to New York City doesn’t translate into a higher work intensity.
Buffalo, NY
Buffalo, New York, is ranked 114th with a total score of 39.22. Buffalo stands at 114th in direct work factors and 103rd in indirect work factors. The city is known for its emphasis on community and leisure activities.
