A recent analysis by WalletHub ranks the hardest-working states in the United States based on factors such as average workweek hours, employment rates, the share of workers with multiple jobs, and annual volunteer hours per resident. North Dakota tops the list with the highest combined score, followed by Alaska and South Dakota. These rankings indicate where labor force engagement and work ethic are the strongest across the nation.
The top-ranking states often share characteristics such as strong economic incentives, higher labor force participation, and smaller populations with concentrated industries. Texas and Hawaii complete the top five, showing that both large and geographically isolated states can have highly engaged workforces. High work scores in these states reflect both paid labor and volunteer contributions, highlighting a broad definition of “hard work.”
On the other end of the spectrum, Michigan ranks as the least hard-working state according to the WalletHub analysis. Lower rankings in certain states often correlate with longer unemployment durations, fewer hours worked per week, and a smaller share of residents holding multiple jobs. These findings provide insight into regional disparities in work patterns and economic engagement.
The methodology emphasizes a combination of work-related metrics, including traditional employment data and volunteer activity, to capture a more complete picture of labor contribution. By including volunteer hours, the rankings recognize unpaid contributions that still drive community development and social cohesion, not just formal employment.
Industry analysts often use rankings like these as a screening layer when evaluating where to locate new operations or hire remote talent. A logistics company picking a new fulfillment hub, an online crypto casino operator setting up a US-based support and engineering team, or a remote-first SaaS firm building out customer success — all overlay workforce metrics like these on top of cost of living, tax structure, and local regulatory posture. A state’s combined score doesn’t drive any of those decisions on its own, but it changes the relative weights.
Overall, the study offers a useful benchmark for policymakers, businesses, and researchers to understand workforce dynamics across the U.S. It also sheds light on regional trends in productivity, work-life balance, and civic engagement, and can inform strategies for workforce development, economic policy, and local labor initiatives.
Key Takeaways
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North Dakota ranks as the hardest-working state in the U.S., with a WalletHub score of 66.17 out of 100.
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Alaska follows closely at second place with a score of 63.11, while South Dakota holds the third position with a score of 60.81.
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Texas and Hawaii round out the top five, securing the fourth and fifth spots respectively.
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Michigan is identified as the least hard-working state, with a WalletHub score of 29.35.
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The rankings are based on various factors, including average workweek hours, employment rates, share of workers with multiple jobs, and annual volunteer hours per resident.
Why It Matters
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Highlights regional work ethic disparities, with central U.S. states generally ranking higher.
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Provides insights into employment patterns and labor force engagement across states. Yahoo Creators
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Offers a benchmark for policymakers and businesses to assess workforce productivity and engagement.
Key Social Outcomes
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States with higher work scores may experience increased economic output and productivity.
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Regions with lower work scores might face challenges in economic development and labor force participation.
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The data can inform discussions on work-life balance and labor policies at the state level.
Publication Date & Live Link
- Publication Date: September 2, 2025
- Live Link: https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/10-hardest-working-states-us-123401200.html
