Is your city on the list? The top 100 most overweight cities in America for 2025
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As the years go by, staying healthy has become more important than ever.
With fast food on every corner, busy schedules limiting physical activity, and other lifestyle factors at play, weight-related health concerns continue to rise across the country.
A new study has taken a closer look at this growing issue, ranking the 100 most overweight cities in America for 2025.
Many are now wondering—did my hometown make the list?
The study, conducted by financial analysis firm WalletHub, highlights concerning trends in weight and overall health across the nation.
At the top of the list is McAllen, Texas, where nearly half of the adult population is classified as overweight.
This is just one example of a broader trend affecting communities nationwide.
Most of the top 20 cities on the list are in the South, a region that has long faced challenges with weight-related health concerns, including diabetes and heart disease.
The study examined 100 of the most populated US cities using three key factors: overweight and obesity prevalence, health consequences, and access to food and fitness.
Researchers assigned scores based on these factors, with higher scores indicating a greater struggle with weight-related issues.
McAllen ranked highest with a score of 85, followed by Little Rock, Arkansas, and Jackson, Mississippi.
The prevalence of obesity in certain regions stems from multiple factors.
Researchers point to limited access to fresh, healthy foods and fewer opportunities for physical activity as major contributors.
Many cities on the list also have higher rates of physical inactivity, with fewer parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities available.
Beyond health concerns, the financial impact is also significant.
Chip Lupo, an analyst at WalletHub, emphasizes that weight-related health issues not only affect individuals but also place a growing burden on the healthcare system.
On the other end of the spectrum, Honolulu, Hawaii, was ranked the least overweight city, with a score of 59.
Researchers suggest that Honolulu’s success is due in part to its residents’ access to nutritious foods and their active outdoor lifestyles.
This serves as an encouraging example of how communities can foster healthier living.
These findings serve as a reminder that small changes can make a big difference.
Cities can invest in health education, increase access to fresh foods, and create more opportunities for physical activity.
For individuals, making conscious lifestyle choices—such as incorporating more movement into daily routines and prioritizing balanced nutrition—can lead to lasting benefits.
Obesity is a complex issue influenced by many factors, but small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Whether it’s advocating for healthier food options in your community or finding ways to stay active, every step counts.
Read next: Quick trick to remember: A doctor unveils an easy test to detect dehydration instantly!
Have you noticed changes in your city’s approach to health and wellness? What do you think could help encourage a healthier lifestyle in your community? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
With fast food on every corner, busy schedules limiting physical activity, and other lifestyle factors at play, weight-related health concerns continue to rise across the country.
A new study has taken a closer look at this growing issue, ranking the 100 most overweight cities in America for 2025.
Many are now wondering—did my hometown make the list?
How does your city rank? A new study reveals the most and least obese cities in America. Image Source: YouTube / TODAY.
The study, conducted by financial analysis firm WalletHub, highlights concerning trends in weight and overall health across the nation.
At the top of the list is McAllen, Texas, where nearly half of the adult population is classified as overweight.
This is just one example of a broader trend affecting communities nationwide.
Most of the top 20 cities on the list are in the South, a region that has long faced challenges with weight-related health concerns, including diabetes and heart disease.
The study examined 100 of the most populated US cities using three key factors: overweight and obesity prevalence, health consequences, and access to food and fitness.
Researchers assigned scores based on these factors, with higher scores indicating a greater struggle with weight-related issues.
McAllen ranked highest with a score of 85, followed by Little Rock, Arkansas, and Jackson, Mississippi.
Also read: Are you at risk? How obesity measurements could be misleading your health!
Understanding the regional struggle
The prevalence of obesity in certain regions stems from multiple factors.
Researchers point to limited access to fresh, healthy foods and fewer opportunities for physical activity as major contributors.
Many cities on the list also have higher rates of physical inactivity, with fewer parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities available.
Beyond health concerns, the financial impact is also significant.
Chip Lupo, an analyst at WalletHub, emphasizes that weight-related health issues not only affect individuals but also place a growing burden on the healthcare system.
Also read: Another danger of ultra-processed food: The bone disease link
Cities leading the way in healthier living
On the other end of the spectrum, Honolulu, Hawaii, was ranked the least overweight city, with a score of 59.
Researchers suggest that Honolulu’s success is due in part to its residents’ access to nutritious foods and their active outdoor lifestyles.
This serves as an encouraging example of how communities can foster healthier living.
These findings serve as a reminder that small changes can make a big difference.
Cities can invest in health education, increase access to fresh foods, and create more opportunities for physical activity.
For individuals, making conscious lifestyle choices—such as incorporating more movement into daily routines and prioritizing balanced nutrition—can lead to lasting benefits.
Obesity is a complex issue influenced by many factors, but small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Whether it’s advocating for healthier food options in your community or finding ways to stay active, every step counts.
Read next: Quick trick to remember: A doctor unveils an easy test to detect dehydration instantly!
Have you noticed changes in your city’s approach to health and wellness? What do you think could help encourage a healthier lifestyle in your community? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
