A recent study by Ben’s Natural Health identified the top U.S. states for stress-free living by evaluating key indicators that influence mental and physical well-being. Data was collected across seven metrics. These included depression rates, environmental quality (Green Index), and the number of wellness and spa centers. Average working hours were evaluated to assess work-life balance. Access to mental health providers highlighted the availability of care. Crime rates and air pollution levels were also considered. The metrics were weighted and combined into a composite score, ranking states by their suitability for stress-free living.
| State | Population | Adults with Depression (%) | Composite Score |
| Massachusetts | 650K | 18.20 | 67.0 |
| Oregon | 635K | 21.40 | 65.8 |
| Colorado | 713K | 18.50 | 63.0 |
| California | 3.8M | 14.10 | 62.4 |
| Nevada | 656K | 17.50 | 60.6 |
| Florida | 449K | 14.70 | 59.8 |
| Connecticut | 148K | 17.70 | 59.4 |
| Maryland | 569K | 16.10 | 57.4 |
| New York | 8.3M | 16.70 | 56.4 |
| Washington | 749K | 23.50 | 51.9 |
*Find the full ranking of all the states here
Massachusetts leads with a score of 67, ranking as the top state for stress-free living in 2025. Its standout feature is the highest mental health provider access, with 758.7 providers per 100K residents. This ensures great support for mental well-being, complemented by a strong Green Index score of 71.6, which promotes a healthy and calming living environment.
Oregon comes in second with a score of 66. The state has an impressive 177 wellness and spa centers, offering ample opportunities for stress relief. Along with a Green Index score of 65.7 and relatively low average working hours of 37.8 per week, Oregon provides a balanced and supportive lifestyle.
Colorado ranks third with a score of 63. The state offers 191 wellness and spa centers, providing abundant options for relaxation. It also has the lowest air pollution level on the list at 12, creating a healthier environment for stress-free living.
California takes fourth place with a score of 62. With 498 wellness and spa centers, one of the highest among the states, California offers a wide array of options for unwinding. It also has the lowest share of adults diagnosed with depression (14.1%) and a strong Green Index score of 75.5.
Nevada follows in fifth place with a score of 61. With 383 wellness centers and an average workweek of 39.7 hours, the state supports good work-life balance and offers ample opportunities for stress management.
Florida secures sixth place with a score of 60. It has the second-lowest share of adults diagnosed with depression (14.7%) after California, reflecting stronger mental well-being among its residents. The state’s 307 wellness and spa centers provide numerous options for residents to prioritize their well-being.
Connecticut comes in seventh with a score of 59. The state excels with a Green Index score of 72.5, reflecting its environmentally friendly policies. Combined with the lowest crime rate in the study of 181, Connecticut provides a safe and serene living environment.
Maryland ranks eighth with a score of 57. It stands out for having one of the lowest shares of adults diagnosed with depression (16.1%), reflecting stronger mental well-being among residents. With the shortest average workweek of 39 hours and a strong Green Index score of 74.7, Maryland promotes a healthier lifestyle.
New York places ninth with a score of 56. It leads with 979 wellness and spa centers, offering the most options for stress relief in the country. The state balances this with the highest Green Index score of 77.7 and extensive access to mental health resources.
Washington rounds out the top ten with a score of 52. Despite a higher depression rate of 23.5%, the state is in the top ten with its Green Index score of 69.7 and 156 wellness centers. These factors contribute to Washington’s ranking as a supportive environment for stress relief.
A spokesperson from Ben’s Natural Health commented on the study: “Living a stress-free life requires more than just managing day-to-day pressures—it’s about creating an environment that fosters mental and physical well-being. Prioritize mental health by seeking support when needed and carving out time for activities that recharge you, whether it’s visiting a wellness center, spending time in nature, or simply unplugging from daily distractions. Small adjustments, like setting boundaries around work hours or creating a calming space at home, can make a significant difference in how you manage life’s pressures and maintain your well-being.”
