Three of the happiest cities in the U.S. are in California

Think money buys happiness? Not quite. Research shows that while financial stability matters, earning beyond $75,000 a year doesn’t boost happiness much. The U.S. is one of the richest countries in the world, yet it ranks only 23rd on the World Happiness Report. So what’s the secret to happiness? A recent WalletHub study crunched the numbers across 180+ cities, ranking them based on factors like well-being, job security and community ties. Turns out the Golden State is a pretty happy place to be. Not only did five California cities rank in the top ten, the top three are all California: Fremont, San Jose and Irvine, in that order.

If happiness had a zip code, it might be in Fremont, CA. Nearly 80% of households rake in over $75,000 a year. But it’s not just about paychecks. Fremont boasts the nation’s highest life satisfaction rate, one of the lowest depression rates and the longest-lasting marriages (divorce rate: just 8.9%). People here take care of themselves mentally and physically, and they care for each other too—Fremont ranks sixth among the most caring cities in America.

Second place goes to San Jose, where residents enjoy the longest life expectancy in the U.S. They also score high on well-being indexes that measure everything from neighborhood pride to personal safety. With a divorce rate among the lowest in the country and over 72% of households earning $75,000+, financial and emotional stability go hand in hand here.

Irvine takes third place, thanks to its obsession with health. More than 88% of residents report being in good health, and nearly 84% stay active. Mentally they’re thriving, as Irvine has one of the lowest depression rates in the U.S. Plus, with nearly 68% of households making over $75,000, financial stress takes a backseat. Add in a rock-solid marriage rate (third-lowest divorce rate in the nation), and it’s easy to see why happiness thrives here.

Turns out, happiness isn’t just about money—it’s about health, stability and community. And if you’re looking for it, California might be your best bet. Find the full ranking of happiest cities here.

Happiest cities in the U.S.

1. Fremont, CA
2. San Jose, CA
3. Irvine, CA
4. Sioux Falls, SD
5. Overland Park, KS
6. Lincoln, NE
7. Madison, WI
8. Scottsdale, AZ
9. San Francisco, CA
10. Huntington Beach, CA