Stress is a common part of everyday life, but for residents in certain cities, it can be particularly acute. According to a recent report by WalletHub, Cleveland has been identified as the most stressed city among 180 cities surveyed across the United States.
WalletHub conducted an extensive analysis using 39 key metrics across categories such as work stress, financial stress, family stress, and health and safety stress to determine its rankings.
Cleveland claimed the top spot due to several critical factors, including its notably low median household income, which stands at under $41,000, ranking among the lowest in the nation.
Economic challenges such as high rates of households falling behind on bills, a significant foreclosure rate, and elevated poverty levels further contribute to the city’s stress profile.
Social factors also play a substantial role in Cleveland’s stress levels. The city reports the second-highest separation and divorce rate nationwide.
More than 20% of adults in Cleveland experience 14 or more mentally unhealthy days per month, and nearly 43% sleep less than seven hours each night. Additionally, Cleveland contends with one of the highest violent crime rates in the country, adding to residents’ stress burdens.
Cassandra Happe, an analyst at WalletHub, underscored how living conditions directly impact stress levels, noting, “Cities with high crime rates, economic hardships, inadequate public health services, and congested transportation systems naturally elevate stress levels for residents.
When contemplating a relocation, it’s crucial to consider not just the financial prospects but also how a city may influence your mental well-being.”
Ohio features prominently in the rankings, with Akron ranked 8th, Cincinnati at 23rd, Toledo at 26th, and Columbus at 67th in terms of stress levels among cities nationwide.
Top 10 Most Stressed Cities in the U.S., according to WalletHub:
1. Cleveland, OH
2. Detroit, MI
3. Baltimore, MD
4. Memphis, TN
5. Gulfport, MS
6. Philadelphia, PA
7. Birmingham, AL
8. Akron, OH
9. New Orleans, LA
10. Jackson, MS
In contrast, WalletHub also identified the least stressed cities in America, including Fremont, CA; South Burlington, VT; Fargo, ND; Lincoln, NE; Bismarck, ND; Sioux Falls, SD; Boise, ID; Nashua, NH; Portland, ME; and Overland Park, KS.
The report serves as a reminder of the multifaceted factors contributing to stress levels across different cities and highlights the urgent need to address socio-economic challenges to enhance overall quality of life.