According to a new report from telemedicine platform NiceRx, Idaho has been named the healthiest state in the United States. The study evaluated all states using a composite of indicators, including obesity rates, alcohol consumption, population physical activity, availability of fitness centers, and even the popularity of search queries about weight-loss medications. Idaho scored the highest overall — 7.14 out of 10 — edging out Washington, Colorado, and Massachusetts.
Key factors behind Idaho’s success were low alcohol consumption and a relatively favorable obesity situation. Residents of the state consume an average of 1.91 gallons of alcohol per person, which is the fourth-lowest figure in the country. This is partly due to a sizable Mormon population, whose culture limits alcohol use. The obesity rate is 31%, well below the national figure of 40%, placing Idaho 13th among states with the lowest prevalence of the condition. The state also demonstrates one of the highest vaccination rates in the country.
Over the past decade Idaho has also shown the smallest increase in obesity in the U.S. — only 4.7%. In addition, the state has one of the highest levels of physical activity: just over 22% of the population lead a sedentary lifestyle. The infrastructure for exercise is well developed: there are 12 fitness centers per 100,000 residents.
The report’s authors link Idaho residents’ health to the state’s unique natural environment and lifestyle. About 40% of the state is covered by forests, and proximity to mountains, lakes, and protected areas provides many opportunities for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor recreational activities. A more continental climate and lower population density compared with coastal states contribute to a different, but equally active, way of life. In addition, the slower pace of life in many areas helps reduce stress and allows more time for cooking healthy meals, spending time with loved ones, and exercising.
Second place in the ranking went to Washington, whose high standing is explained by low smoking rates, good access to healthcare, and a developed public health system. Unlike Idaho, Washington — especially the Seattle area — has a strong outdoor recreation culture related to proximity to the Pacific coast and the Cascade Mountains, which supports high year-round physical activity levels. At the same time, cultural norms around alcohol consumption in Washington, with its strong craft beer scene, differ notably from Idaho’s stricter traditions, illustrating diversity within the same geographic region.
Other states stood out as leaders and laggards on specific measures. Louisiana was named the least healthy state with an overall score of 2.54. Utah consumes the least alcohol, directly related to the influence of the Mormon church, and New Mexico recorded the largest increase in obesity over 10 years. South Carolina residents search online for information about weight-loss medications more than residents of any other state, while New Hampshire has the best access to fitness centers.
Data for the report were collected from authoritative sources, including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, and the Census Bureau, lending additional credibility to the study’s conclusions.
Based on: Idaho is the healthiest state in the nation, a new report says. Here’s why