Posted: Feb 16, 2010 3:13 PM
Montana is tied with Utah as the second happiest state, according to a new survey.
Hawaii moved into first place in the second year of the survey. More than 350,000 American adults took part in the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index in 2009.
Utah used to be in first place, but was surpassed this year by Hawaii.
Nine of the top 10 are in the Midwest and West. Southern states ranked overall in the lowest spots.
The well-being score for each state is an average of six sub-categories, including: life evaluation (self-evaluation about your present life situation and anticipated one in five years); emotional health; work environment (such as job satisfaction); physical health; healthy behavior; basic access (access to healthcare, a doctor, a safe place to exercise and walk, as well as community satisfaction).
The top 10 states and their average well-being scores (out of a possible 100 points):
Hawaii: 70.2
Utah: 68.3
Montana: 68.3
Minnesota: 67.8
Iowa: 67.6
Vermont: 67.4
Colorado: 67.3
Alaska: 67.3
North Dakota: 67.3
Kansas: 67.2
Click here for a complete list of the 2009 happiest states.