In a recent study by WalletHub, Seattle has been named the best city in the U.S. for residents looking to stick to their New Year’s resolutions in 2026. Following closely behind are Scottsdale, Arizona, and Irvine, California, thanks to their strong health, financial, and lifestyle indicators. The findings emphasize how local environments can significantly impact individuals’ success in achieving personal goals.
According to WalletHub, making resolutions is straightforward, but following through can be a challenge. While personal discipline is essential, the study suggests that the city you live in may play an even more crucial role in your success. To determine the most conducive locations for keeping resolutions, WalletHub analyzed 182 cities across 57 indicators related to self-improvement, such as access to exercise facilities, income growth, and local employment opportunities.
The methodology involved evaluating cities based on five broad categories: health, financial stability, school and work conditions, bad habits, and relationships. Each category was assessed using 57 weighted metrics, scored on a 100-point scale. The final rankings were determined by calculating a weighted average of these metrics, focusing solely on city boundaries without considering surrounding metropolitan areas.
“Many people have experienced the frustration of failing to keep a New Year’s resolution, whether it’s losing weight, saving money, or pursuing a new hobby,” said WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo. He noted that various factors, such as inflation and the pressures of daily life, can complicate these goals. However, residing in a supportive city can significantly enhance the likelihood of success. Cities with ample access to healthy food and exercise options enable residents to improve their health, while those with robust economies facilitate career advancements and income growth.
Seattle’s top ranking can be attributed to several favorable health and financial indicators. The city boasts the lowest percentage of physically inactive adults and one of the nation’s lowest obesity rates, coupled with high access to nutritious food and exercise facilities. Additionally, Seattle demonstrates strong financial health, with low consumer debt levels, the second-lowest delinquency rate on debt payments, and some of the highest median credit scores in the country. It also has a notably low percentage of adults who smoke regularly.
