A new nationwide analysis from Rula examines where Americans believe people are thriving most and least, and compares those perceptions with health-based state rankings used to measure overall well-being.
The analysis reveals a clear disconnect between reputation and measurable outcomes, with several high-profile states widely viewed as thriving despite weaker health indicators, while other states with stronger underlying metrics are routinely overlooked.
Key findings from Rula:
- Americans most often name California, Colorado, and Texas as the states where people are thriving the most.
- Texas shows the largest gap between perception and health outcomes, ranking highly in public opinion but much lower in health-based measures.
- North Dakota and South Dakota are among the most underrated states, performing substantially better on health indicators than Americans assume.
- Media exposure and personal connections strongly shape perceptions, often outweighing data on health and well-being.
- Nearly 2 in 5 Americans say social media has the most influence on which states they think are thriving.
- Economic resources are the most frequently cited factor in defining a thriving state.
- Community and family safety rank second, ahead of education and healthcare access.
With healthcare affordability and mental health access dominating national conversations, these findings offer a snapshot of what Americans want addressed first in their communities.
No comments:
Post a Comment