WalletHub study ranks hardest-working U.S. states

A new study by WalletHub has ranked the hardest-working states in the United States based on ten different measures, including employment rates, average workweek hours, and commute times.

South Dakota was named the hardest-working state, boasting the highest employment rate in the country at nearly 98% and a high percentage of workers holding multiple jobs. Other top-ranking states include North Dakota, Alaska, Hawaii, and Wyoming.

Alabama ranked 16th overall, supported by the nation's fifth-highest employment rate, though it ranked 49th in indirect work factors such as leisure time and volunteer hours. In contrast, Washington ranked 38th, falling below the national average. Michigan was identified as the least hard-working state for the second consecutive year, followed by Oregon and New Jersey.