5 Unhappiest States in the US

In this article, we take a look at the 5 Unhappiest States in the US.  If you would like to see the complete list and read our discussion about the increasing unhappiness in the United States, you can go to 15 Unhappiest States in the US.

5. Kentucky  

Happiness Score by WalletHub: 40.58

Kentucky, USA’s famous bluegrass state, has a population of over 4.52 million people and is the birthplace of KFC (NYSE: YUM). With over 115 KFC (NYSE: YUM) locations, Kentucky has a national adult obesity rate of 42% and a childhood obesity rate of 24%. Of course, KFC (NYSE: YUM) is not the only reason behind the growing obesity rates, but it does play its part. Currently, the famed fast food chain aims to add 1000 more locations in the US and introduce new menu items to boost sales.

See 20 States with the Highest Fast Food Consumption 

Besides unhealthy eating habits, Kentucky’s population also comprises very few exercise enthusiasts. It comes as no surprise that the state ranked 50 on WalletHub’s exercise-enthusiasts measure. The state also has a depression rate of 27.6%.

Furthermore, with a poverty rate of 14.90%, and a score of  41 in the work environment category, Kentucky’s bar with these categories is set pretty low. The ever-increasing environmental issues, such as improper waste disposal, water pollution, and contamination, explain why Kentucky scored 26 in the community and environment category as well.