One of America’s Happiest Cities is Almost in Missouri
No Missouri Cities Make New ‘Happiest Cities’ Ranking
Apparently, according to a new ranking, Missouri has no happy cities. Several cities surrounding the Show-Me State made the list, but none within Missouri appeared in the new 2026 rankings. That naturally raises the question—why?
I’m wondering the same thing.
Missouri Shockingly Missing From Happiest Cities List
Missouri is home to major cities like Kansas City and St. Louis, both with multiple sports teams (some good, some not), incredible BBQ, and the debate over which city does it better continues. There are also museums and plenty of family entertainment. Then there’s Hannibal, which was just named one of the best river towns to visit in 2026, and Ste. Genevieve is the oldest town in the state. With all that to offer, how did none of them land on the list of the happiest cities? Your guess is as good as mine.
New Study Leaves Every Missouri City Off Happiest List
Some of the key factors WalletHub used to determine the happiest cities included depression rates, income growth, average daily leisure time, and several other quality-of-life indicators.
Interestingly, some of the happiest cities near Missouri are in neighboring states like Nebraska and Kansas. Sure, I’ve been to Omaha and Lincoln, and they’re great places, but better than any city or town in Missouri? I’m not so sure.
Whether you agree with the rankings or not, those of us who live in Missouri—or close to the Show-Me State know just how great many of these cities and towns truly are.
Missouri’s 10 Friendliest Places for 2026 Revealed
Gallery Credit: Google Maps Street View
Most Romantic Place in Missouri is a Treehouse?
Gallery Credit: With Wonder via YouTube
