Scottsdale is the third-happiest city in the United States, according to a report from WalletHub.
The finance website ranked nearly 200 of the largest U.S. cities in the country based on metrics like socioeconomics, job satisfaction, recreation options and resident mental health to determine the happiest cities.
Scottsdale ranked No. 3 — mostly because its residents are so healthy, WalletHub said. Over 88% of Scottsdale adults report good health, while almost 87% participate in physical recreation. The city also has the third-highest rate of sports participation in the country.
Scottsdale residents also report good mental health, though: The city has the third-lowest proportion of adults with two weeks or more of mentally unhealthy days per year.
Finally, Scottsdale residents aren’t typically strapped financially. Just 7% live below the poverty level, and approximately 65% of households make over $75,000 per year — a magic number, according to the report.
“Research shows that having more money only increases your happiness until you’re making at least $75,000 per year. Anything more you earn likely won’t have an impact,” said WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo. “Therefore, when deciding where to live to maximize your happiness, you’ll want to pick a city that offers more than just a decent average income.”
Scottsdale was beat only by No. 1, Fremont, California, and No. 2, Bismark, North Dakota. Several other Phoenix-area cities also ranked high on WalletHub’s list: Gilbert ranked No. 9, followed by Chandler at No. 14, Tempe at No. 20, Peoria at No. 23 and Mesa at No. 29.
