Once again, the city has the highest levels of well-being in the nation
Where do the happiest people in the U.S. live? While there are certainly chipper folks in towns everywhere, according to the Gallup-Sharecare Well-Being Index, the largest group in one city is located in Naples, Florida. And this is the third year in a row Naples has taken the top spot.
The most recent Well-Being Index was based on interviews with over 337,000 adults in 186 metropolitan areas across the country that took place from the beginning of 2016 to the end of 2017. Using a scale of 0 to 100, researchers calculated a score for five different areas: a sense of purpose, social relationships, finances, physical health, and community involvement. Naples had a total score of 67.6 and was number one in the first three categories and second in the latter two.
Why are Naples residents so happy?
There is really no secret to why Naples is so special. The weather is spectacular year-round, and there are tons of things to do in and around the city, including ample shopping opportunities, and amazing food. This is probably why Naples has some of the lowest scores for stress and depression.
Naples didn’t achieve this distinction by accident. The city is part of the Blue Zones Project, which aims to improve key components that are included in the Well-Being Index. This includes doing things to enhance health, community connection, and purpose.
Great for families
Naples routinely makes it onto lists of the best places to raise a family. Crime rates are low – and violent crime is virtually non-existent. The school system is excellent, and student test scores and graduation rates are usually much higher than the national average. In fact, Greatschools.org gives most schools in Naples a 9 or 10 out of 10. Plus, with so many parks, museums, and the Naples Zoo, there are many kid- and family-friendly activities.
Perfect for retirees
Florida has always been a haven for retirees. People who don’t have to work will find a never-ending assortment of things to keep them busy. The golf courses in the area are some of the nicest and well-maintained in the U.S. For people who love being outside, there are many places to commune with nature, including the beaches on the Gulf of Mexico and nearby Everglades National Park. According to a recent study, the Naples area is so nice, it actually helps people live longer.
Naples aims to hold onto its top spot
Just seven years ago, Naples ranked 73rd out of 190 on the Well-Being Index, but thanks in part to the Blue Zones Project, the city is thriving in all areas.
Before winning the top spot for three consecutive years, Naples was considered a great area for well-being, but it wasn’t consistent, according to Dan Witters, research director with Gallup-Sharecare. But, that has changed significantly.
“What is most impressive is how Naples has shown great consistency in its well-being excellence since 2014-2015, and it has been strengthening its position at the top along the way,” Witter said.
Want to improve your health and happiness?
With all these benefits, you may want to think about moving to Naples. There are many great homes available, and Dante DiSabato can help you find the right one. To get in touch, call 239-537-5351 or just fill out this contact form.
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