Aug 13, 2025
Where you live can play a bigger role in your stress levels than you might think. A recent study by WalletHub ranked 182 U.S. cities based on 39 indicators of stress, from unemployment and foreclosure rates to divorce rates, violent crime and average weekly work hours.
The study compared work stress, financial stress, family stress, and health and safety stress to produce an overall score for each city. The highest-ranking “most stressed” cities share many of the same characteristics: economic hardship, high crime and strained family structures.
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On the opposite end of the spectrum, the least stressed cities tend to have stronger economies, lower crime rates and better access to community resources.
So which cities are feeling the most pressure and which ones are getting a better night’s sleep? The top and bottom five in WalletHub’s 2025 rankings offer a revealing snapshot of how environment shapes stress.
The most stressful cities to live in the U.S.
WalletHub’s top five most stressed cities show that financial strain often goes hand-in-hand with safety concerns and family challenges. Here are the top 5 cities where stress levels are highest, and why.
5. Memphis, TN
Memphis ranks first in the nation for health and safety stress, fueled by one of the highest violent crime rates in the U.S. The city also lands in the top 10 for both financial stress (8th) and family stress (9th), indicating that residents are often contending with economic strain and unstable home environments simultaneously.
4. Gulfport, MS
This Mississippi Gulf Coast city has the highest family stress score in the nation, thanks to a high divorce rate and large share of single-parent households. Gulfport also ranks ninth for financial stress, with housing costs and limited job opportunities weighing on residents, and 13th for health and safety stress.
3. Baltimore, MD
In Baltimore, nearly 40% of the median household income goes toward rent for a two-bedroom apartment, the third-highest rent burden in the country. The city has the seventh-highest rate of underwater mortgages and one of the highest violent crime rates in the nation. It also experienced the sixth-most mass shootings between March 2020 and March 2025, compounding community safety concerns.
2. Cleveland, OH
Cleveland struggles with deep economic challenges, including the second-highest foreclosure rate and a median household income under $43,000 when adjusted for cost of living — one of the lowest in the country. The city also has the highest divorce rate in the U.S. at over 41% and ranks second in health and safety stress, with high rates of poor health, inadequate sleep, and violent crime.
1. Detroit, MI
Detroit tops the list as America’s most stressed city. It has the nation’s highest unemployment rate at 11.4% and the highest poverty rate at 31.5%. Residents have the lowest median household income adjusted for cost of living (just over $38,000) and a median credit score of 624 — considered “bad” by most lenders. Detroit also ranks second for family stress and fourth for health and safety stress, driven by a high violent crime rate.
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The least stressful cities to live in the U.S.
The cities at the bottom of WalletHub’s list illustrate what lower-stress environments often have in common: stable economies, safer streets and healthier lifestyles. These cities ranked lowest for overall stress.
5. Burlington, VT
Known for its small-town feel and community engagement, Burlington benefits from low crime rates, easy access to outdoor activities, and relatively short commutes. Strong social ties contribute to its low stress ranking.
4. Irvine, CA
Irvine boasts the second-lowest divorce rate in the nation, a robust local economy, and some of the highest safety scores. High median incomes and a focus on urban planning contribute to a strong quality of life.
3. Sioux Falls, SD
Sioux Falls pairs a healthy job market with affordable housing and low crime rates. The city’s emphasis on community well-being and recreational opportunities helps residents maintain balance.
2. Fremont, CA
Fremont has the lowest divorce rate in the U.S., high household incomes, and one of the lowest violent crime rates. Its proximity to Silicon Valley brings economic opportunity, though it also comes with higher housing costs.
1. South Burlington, VT
South Burlington leads the nation in low stress, with residents enjoying the highest average sleep hours and strong work-life balance. The city’s low crime rate and emphasis on green space further support a relaxed pace of life.
How to manage urban and financial stress
Living in a high-stress city can take a toll on both physical and mental health, but there are ways to reduce the pressure.
According to NeuroLaunch, which provides information on human brain function and behavior, “urban stress has become an increasingly prevalent issue.” It can manifest as increased irritability, mood swings, chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, physical tension and headaches, along with increased susceptibility to illness. These symptoms often stem from factors embedded in city life, including overcrowding, long commutes, limited access to nature and social isolation.
Financial pressure is one of the most persistent contributors to stress. “This nonstop pressure to make ends meet and to manage the problems caused by not having enough money often fuels anxiety, depression, and despair over time,” writes Llewellyn E. van Zyl, Ph.D, in an article for Psychology Today. The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy notes that financial distress can also strain relationships, leading to job loss, housing instability and loss of savings.
Experts recommend a few strategies to help ease these burdens:
- Get a clear picture of your finances: Track your expenses, make a budget, and work to pay down high-interest debt.
- Build a financial safety net: Aim to save three to six months’ worth of living expenses in an emergency fund.
- Seek help if needed: Look for free or low-cost credit counseling services in your area.
- Create balance: Incorporate regular exercise, time in nature, and hobbies into your schedule.
- Strengthen your support network: Building connections with neighbors, friends, and community groups can buffer against isolation.
- Consider relocation: If your city’s environment is a major source of stress — whether due to crime, cost of living, or work culture — a move could be a long-term solution.
WalletHub’s rankings show that stress isn’t just personal, but tied to the communities we live in. High unemployment, unaffordable housing, crime and fractured family support systems can make daily life harder in some cities, while others foster a healthier, more balanced environment. Whether you’re in Detroit or South Burlington, taking control of your finances, cultivating supportive relationships and making intentional lifestyle choices can help you manage stress, no matter your ZIP code.
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Vawn Himmelsbach is a veteran journalist who has been covering tech, business, finance and travel for the past three decades. Her work has been featured in publications such as The Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, National Post, Metro News, Canadian Geographic, Zoomer, CAA Magazine, Travelweek, Explore Magazine, Flare and Consumer Reports, to name a few.
