As more Americans prioritize fitness, nutrition, and long-term wellness, a new study highlights where healthy living may be easiest to maintain. A January 2026 report analyzing conditions for an active lifestyle ranked all 50 states based on factors tied to daily health, from access to gyms and green space to air quality and healthcare costs.
The research, conducted by Auragens, examined how environmental and lifestyle conditions combine to support healthier habits. The findings suggest that where people live plays a meaningful role in how easily they can stay active, eat well, and manage healthcare expenses.
💸 Take Back Control of Your Finances in 2025 💸
Get Instant Access to our free mini course
5 DAYS TO A BETTER BUDGET
How the States Were Evaluated
The study analyzed multiple categories to measure which states provide the strongest overall conditions for healthy living. Each state received scores based on overall health statistics, daily habits such as diet quality and exercise, access to fitness facilities, air quality, healthcare costs per capita, and the amount of forested or green land.
These factors were combined into a single Healthy Lifestyle Index score. Higher scores indicate stronger support for maintaining an active and health-conscious lifestyle.
California Ranks First for Healthy Living Conditions
California ranked first overall, earning the highest Healthy Lifestyle Index score in the study. The state combines relatively clean air, strong health habits, and broad access to fitness facilities.
California has more than 5,100 health clubs, the highest total in the country. About 80 percent of residents report exercising regularly, and 86 percent say they follow a nutritious diet. Smoking rates are relatively low, with only 11 percent of residents reporting tobacco use.
The state’s air quality score also ranked well compared to much of the country, helping support outdoor activity year-round. While healthcare costs are higher than in some states, the overall combination of lifestyle habits and infrastructure placed California at the top of the list.
Colorado’s Strong Health Habits and Lower Medical Costs
Colorado ranked second overall and stood out for affordability and diet quality. More than 81 percent of residents reported following nutritious diets, the highest rate among all states studied. Physical inactivity levels were also low, with only 18 percent of residents considered inactive.
Healthcare costs in Colorado averaged about $8,600 per person annually, roughly $1,700 less than California. The state also offers wide access to fitness facilities, with nearly 900 gyms, along with ample outdoor recreation options that support year-round activity.
Green Space and Access Drive Virginia’s Ranking
Virginia placed third, supported largely by its extensive natural environment. Forests cover approximately 63 percent of the state, giving residents easy access to outdoor spaces for walking, hiking, and other activities.
That level of greenery also contributes to better air quality, with Virginia scoring higher than many other states in this category. Indoor fitness access remains strong as well, with more than 1,100 gyms statewide. Together, these factors helped Virginia earn a high overall score for healthy living conditions.
Idaho and Washington Round Out the Top Five
Idaho ranked fourth, driven by strong diet and exercise habits among residents. About 85 percent of people report following nutritious diets, and a similar share exercises regularly. Forests cover roughly 41 percent of the state, supporting outdoor activity.
Idaho also recorded some of the lowest healthcare costs in the study, with average annual medical spending around $8,000 per person.
Washington placed fifth, supported by healthy eating patterns and low smoking rates. Only about 14 percent of residents smoke, and physical inactivity remains relatively low. The state also offers access to more than 900 gyms and has forest coverage near 50 percent, making outdoor activity accessible throughout the year.
Other States Showing Strong Healthy Living Conditions
Several other states also ranked highly for healthy living conditions. Massachusetts placed seventh overall, with residents reporting longer life expectancy and high levels of regular exercise. Around 70 percent of residents exercise consistently, despite higher healthcare costs compared to many other states.
Minnesota, Vermont, Maryland, and Connecticut also ranked within the top ten, each benefiting from combinations of green space, strong health outcomes, and access to fitness infrastructure.
What the Findings Suggest About Healthy Living
Dr. Dan Briggs, President and CEO of Auragens, said the findings reflect a broader shift in how Americans approach health.
“Americans are paying more attention to staying fit and healthy,” Briggs said. “Seven out of ten now go to the gym every week, and more people are watching what they eat and tracking their nutrition. With this shift, every state should focus on clean air and accessible green public spaces.”
The study suggests that while individual habits matter, the environment surrounding those habits plays an important role. Access to safe outdoor areas, affordable healthcare, and convenient fitness options can make healthy choices easier to sustain over time.
Healthy Living Conditions Vary Widely by Location
The rankings show wide variation across the country. States that scored highly tended to combine multiple advantages, including natural spaces, strong health habits, and manageable healthcare costs. States that ranked lower often struggled in one or more of these areas.
For individuals considering relocation or long-term planning, the findings offer insight into how location may influence daily health choices. While no state guarantees good health, the data suggests some environments provide stronger support for maintaining it.
More From Cents + Purpose: