WalletHub Ranks Michigan's Obesity Rate

Michigan ranks 17th among the most overweight states in the nation, according to a new analysis released by WalletHub. The financial firm evaluated all 50 states and the District of Columbia to determine where adults struggle most with obesity.

The study found that more than 70 percent of U.S. adults ages 20 and older are classified as overweight or obese. While rates remain lower for children and adolescents, the report notes that these figures have increased sharply over the last few decades. WalletHub compiled the rankings using 31 metrics related to obesity, health outcomes, and access to food and fitness facilities.

In the Midwest region, Ohio recorded the highest obesity rate, placing 15th in the national ranking. North Dakota followed at 16th, with Michigan in 17th place. Indiana finished 18th. Minnesota stood out as the least overweight state in the region, securing a 47th position nationally. The state achieved this rank by ranking low in categories such as the percentage of obese children, the number of physically inactive adults, and the prevalence of high cholesterol among adults.

Other Midwest states in the ranking included Wisconsin at 26th, Iowa at 30th, Illinois at 32nd, and South Dakota at 33rd. The analysis also identified a specific comfort food associated with each state. For Michigan, the firm selected pastries, noting they contain 768 calories per serving. In contrast, Wisconsin’s fried cheese curds were listed at 1,190 calories per serving, while South Dakota’s chislic registered at 206 calories.

West Virginia topped the national list as the most obese state. The top five spots were filled by southern states, with Mississippi in second, Arkansas in third, Louisiana in fourth, and Alabama in fifth. Tennessee, Kentucky, Maine, Delaware, and Texas completed the top ten. Colorado ranked as the least overweight state in the country, followed by Utah, Massachusetts, and Hawaii.