Viral Trends

New York is one of the most fun states in the US, new study says — but is it No. 1?

By
Adriana Diaz
Published Aug. 26, 2024, 5:14 p.m. ET

New Yorkers just wanna have fun.

While we believe New York deserves to be No. 1, the Empire State was ranked the fourth most fun state in America, according to WalletHub.

New York is one of the most fun states, according to a new study — though Big Apple residents might bicker over its ranking.
New York is one of the most fun states, according to a new study — though Big Apple residents might bicker over its ranking. Getty Images

To determine which states offer the most frivolity, WalletHub compared the 50 territories across two categories, entertainment/recreation and nightlife per capita, while also considering costs and accessibility.

While New York did not top the list overall, it did come in first for restaurants and performing arts theaters — no surprise there.

The state was also ranked No. 1 for casinos and amusement parks.

New York also came in third for movie theaters and fourth for fitness centers, as well as golf courses and country clubs.

But in the end, beach haven Florida was ranked the most fun state overall — interesting, as Floridians rank among the top buyers of NYC homes.

The Sunshine State was followed behind by California and Nevada, respectively.

Miami, Florida, pictured above, has surely contributed to that state's level of fun.
Miami, Florida, pictured above, has surely contributed to that state’s level of fun. Getty Images
Perhaps it's no surprise that theater and other arts propelled New York into the top spot in those areas.
Perhaps it’s no surprise that theater (like a Broadway offering, above) and other arts propelled New York into the top spot in those areas. Getty Images

“Living in one of the most fun states can boost your mental, physical and emotional health by giving you a wide range of activities to choose from, both indoor and outdoor,” WalletHub analyst Cassandra Happe said in a statement.

“These states help residents stay active and socialize, and they’re also ideal for travelers who want to make the most out of the limited amount of time that they have to explore.”

Restaurants are also a big draw in New York City especially.
Restaurants are also a big draw in New York City especially. AP

The average American spends $3,568 — just over $297 per month — on entertainment each year, according to GoBankingRates, but as prices continue to rise across New York they might be ruining the fun.

However, those in some of these cheaper states still aren’t having fun.

New York came in fourth regarding fitness centers, like Blink (above) in Brooklyn.
New York came in fourth regarding the number of fitness centers per capita, including Blink (above) in Brooklyn. Bloomberg via Getty Images

West Virginia was ranked the least fun (most boring?) state in the US, followed by Mississippi and Delaware.

New Yorkers may have to shell out some extra cash but, hey, we’re having fun — to borrow from Alicia Keys & Jay-Z — in the concrete jungle where dreams are made of.