Obesity rates across the US are climbing to record levels, and a new nationwide ranking shows exactly where the crisis is hitting hardest. The report, compiled by WalletHub using 31 public health and lifestyle indicators, identifies states where limited access to healthy food, low physical activity, and economic hardship are combining to fuel some of the highest obesity and chronic disease rates in the country — costing billions in healthcare and reshaping workforce health and life expectancy.Most to least overweight and obese states in the US
What’s driving the divide
Several contributing factors influence why some states experience higher rates:
- Limited access to fresh and affordable foods
- High sugary drink consumption
- Consumption of ultra-processed food
- Low levels of regular physical activity
- Fewer fitness centers and green recreational spaces
- Economic and healthcare disparities
For example, West Virginia — which ranks first — has high rates of sugary beverage intake among teens, lower availability of fitness facilities, and significantly elevated rates of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
The cost of the obesity crisis
Obesity-related health conditions such as heart disease, hypertension, stroke, and joint complications cost the US an estimated $173 billion per year. States with the highest obesity rates also experience:
- Increased medical spending
- Higher workplace absenteeism
- Lower reported levels of daily energy and wellness
Experts also note that the growing popularity of GLP-1 weight-loss medications reflects both progress in medical treatment and deepening reliance on pharmaceutical solutions.Health professionals emphasise that individual effort works best when supported by community environments. Effective approaches include:
- Increasing access to affordable nutritious foods
- Encouraging physical activity in schools and public spaces
- Reducing sugary beverage consumption
- Promoting preventive healthcare and nutrition education