Stress is a normal part of life, but depending on where you live (and visit), you may feel it more in some places than others. Factors such as high crime rates, weak economies, less effective public health, and congested transportation systems all play a part in stressing out residents. Here are the most and least stressed cities in America in 2026, based on a new report from the personal finance site WalletHub.

Most-Stressed Cities

3. Cleveland, Ohio

The WalletHub report broke down each city’s stress levels in four specific categories: work stress, financial stress, family stress, and health and safety stress. Cleveland — America’s third-most stressed city overall — led the nation in financial strain. According to census data, the city has a median household income of $40,801, with 30.6% of residents living in poverty. High foreclosure rates, overdue bills, and financial insecurity are some of the most frequent concerns. 

Cleveland’s population has also shrunk from around 397,000 people in 2010 to about 364,000 today. That decline is closely tied to the city’s long history as a manufacturing and industrial center. Set along Lake Erie, Cleveland was once a major hub for steel, shipping, and manufacturing. While economic hardship and high crime remain ongoing challenges for many residents, Cleveland has a lot to offer — from the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to its sports teams.

2. Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore ranks as the second-most stressed city in the U.S., according to WalletHub’s findings. Work and money are two of the biggest sources of stress, with Baltimore ranking No. 1 for work stress and No. 2 for financial stress. Housing costs compound the strain, with rent for a two-bedroom apartment taking up nearly 40% of the median household income in 2024. 

Despite its challenges, Baltimore remains a fascinating destination for U.S. history lovers. The city played a key role in the War of 1812, and the sight of the American flag flying over Fort McHenry inspired Francis Scott Key to write what became “The Star-Spangled Banner.” With about 570,000 residents, Baltimore is also known for its scenic waterfront and charming historic neighborhoods.

1. Detroit, Michigan

Detroit was named the most stressed city in the U.S. by the WalletHub study, which noted that Detroit had the highest unemployment rate in the nation at 10.4%, the highest poverty rate at 32.7%, and the lowest median household income (after adjusting for cost of living) at $39,938. Family pressures are also significant, with Detroit having the second-highest separation and divorce rate and the second-highest number of single-parent households. 

Once the center of America’s auto industry, the Motor City has faced decades of population loss and economic decline as manufacturing jobs have disappeared. But Detroit remains closely tied to its automotive and Motown roots today, and is slowly reinventing itself with new green spaces, cultural institutions, and revitalized developments.

Least-Stressed Cities

3. Bismarck, North Dakota

Bismarck is the third-least stressed city in the U.S., with low levels of financial and family stress helping set it apart. The median household income is $78,387, only 9.3% of residents live in poverty, and the average commute is about 15 minutes. 

Set along the Missouri River, this city of roughly 77,000 people offers parks, trails, and outdoor recreation without the crowds or long commutes found in many larger cities. Its relatively manageable cost of living, stable economy, and easy access to nature give the North Dakota capital a laid-back quality that helps explain why it ranks among the least stressed cities in the country.

2. South Burlington, Vermont

If you’re looking for one of the most easygoing places in America, South Burlington makes a pretty strong case. The city is ranked No. 1 for lowest levels of financial and family stress. Residents of this city also log the highest average number of hours of sleep per night. 

South Burlington has about 21,400 residents, a median household income of $106,667, and only 7.2% of residents living in poverty. The city offers easy access to Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains while maintaining a quieter, suburban feel. It may not have the buzz of a major city, but that seems to be part of the reason it’s relatively stress-free.

1. Fremont, California

Located in the Bay Area, Fremont ranks as the least stressed city in the U.S., with exceptional scores across work, finances, family, and health and safety. The numbers help explain why: The city has a median household income of $181,506, with just 5.2% of its 226,000 residents living in poverty. Nearly 64% of residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher, and almost half were born outside the U.S., giving the city a notably international feel. 

Fremont also has plenty of parks and open space, including the Mission Peak Preserve and the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Despite being in one of the country’s most expensive regions, Fremont’s combination of high incomes, low poverty, strong schools, and low crime helps keep everyday stress levels comparatively low.

View the rest of the rankings in the full report here.