California crowned most fun state in WalletHub's 2025 rankings. Here's why
WalletHub's annual report evaluated all 50 states across two major categories: 'Entertainment & Recreation' and 'Nightlife.' California ranked No. 1 overall, thanks to its abundance of attractions, restaurants, music festivals, and nightlife options. The state also scored highest in entertainment and recreation, underscoring its diverse offerings from beaches to theme parks to national parks.
Here's what to know about WalletHub's national fun rankings survey and California's top ranking.
Why is California the most fun state?
California boasts more movie theaters, restaurants, and amusement parks per capita than any other state, the WalletHub study found. Its climate allows for year-round outdoor fun, and its cultural diversity fuels various festivals, cuisines, and nightlife experiences.
From surfing in Santa Cruz to wine tasting in Napa Valley, hiking in Yosemite to dancing in Los Angeles clubs, California offers something for everyone. It's this unmatched variety and accessibility that keep the state at the top of the fun list year after year.
And for those who like a good Pinot or Chablis when having fun, the study had some good news for wine lovers.
"And even though California is one of the most expensive states for beer, it's the least expensive for wine — likely due to the abundance produced locally," the study found.
Florida and Texas trail behind California in the fun race
While Florida and Texas are often seen as rivals to California in terms of leisure and lifestyle, they fell short in this year's rankings. Florida came in at No. 2, buoyed by its nightlife scene and family-friendly attractions like Disney World and Miami's club culture. However, it couldn't match California's breadth of options or its top-tier recreation score.
Related: These three underrated California coastal towns have the most stunning views
Texas landed at a distant No. 8, with notable strengths in live music and cultural events, particularly in cities such as Austin and Houston. But the Lone Star State lagged in overall entertainment infrastructure and access to outdoor activities compared to California's coast-to-coast appeal.
Source: WalletHub
What are the top 10 most fun states in the nation?
Based on WalletHub's 2025 rankings, here are the top 10 most fun states in America, evaluated across entertainment, recreation, and nightlife metrics
California —Dominates with the most restaurants, amusement parks, movie theaters, and fitness centers per capita. It also ranks No. 1 for beach access and offers top-tier nightlife and scenic byways.
Florida — Known for its many restaurants, musicals, and amusement parks. It also ranks fourth in attractions per capita and seventh in arts and entertainment variety.
Nevada — Famous for Las Vegas, it excels in nightlife and entertainment density.
New York — Offers unmatched cultural experiences, Broadway, and urban recreation.
Illinois — Chicago boosts its ranking with vibrant nightlife and festivals.
Texas — Strong in live music and cultural events, especially in Austin and Houston.
Colorado — Known for outdoor recreation, skiing, and scenic beauty.
Washington — Offers a mix of nature and urban fun, with Seattle's music and food scene.
Pennsylvania — Historic attractions and a growing arts scene contribute to its ranking.
Oregon — Combines outdoor adventure with quirky urban entertainment.
Related: Tourist trap or must-stop? The best attractions in the U.S. include 3 California places
Looking for fun in these states? You might be better off doing an out-of-state road trip
Based on WalletHub's 2025 rankings, here are the bottom 10 least fun states in America, determined by their scores in entertainment, recreation, and nightlife
West Virginia — Ranked dead last due to low scores in both nightlife and entertainment/recreation categories.
Mississippi — Limited access to attractions and nightlife options.
Delaware — Small size and fewer entertainment venues contribute to its low ranking.
Rhode Island — Despite coastal charm, it lacks variety in nightlife and recreation.
Arkansas — Struggles with entertainment infrastructure and nightlife density.
Alabama — Ranked low for attractions and performing arts venues.
Connecticut — Comes in at 43rd, with weak nightlife and entertainment offerings compared to neighboring states.
New Hampshire — Scenic but limited in urban entertainment and nightlife.
Kentucky — Falls short in recreation access and nightlife variety.
Iowa — Ranked low for both entertainment and nightlife metrics.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: California tops WalletHub's 2025 list of most fun states
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