And it's not just because the “West’s Most Western Town” is plenty rich.
Earlier this week, the personal finance website released its annual ranking of the happiest U.S. cities based on metrics such as the income and overall well-being of residents.
Scottsdale placed in the top 10 alongside cities like Fremont, Calif., Overland Park, Kan., Lincoln, Neb., and San Francisco. Locally, Chandler and Gilbert were among the top 50, while other Arizona cities ranked farther down the list.
Why Scottsdale is one of the happiest U.S. cities
In WalletHub’s study, its number crunchers analyzed 182 of the largest U.S. cities using 29 happiness indicators, including income growth, depression rates and average daily leisure time. Cities were then scored on a 100-point scale that was calculated using data from three overall categories — emotional and physical well-being, employment and income — which was used to create the ranking.
Scottsdale earned its top-10 ranking with strong performances in said categories. The East Valley city placed 10th in income and 22nd in emotional and physical well-being.
It turns out money can buy happiness, after all.
Where other Arizona cities ranked
Eight other Arizona cities made WalletHub’s list, though some ultimately fared better than others. Gilbert placed 26th and also boasted the fifth-lowest separation and divorce rate, while Chandler ranked 40th overall.Outside the top 50, Peoria came in 64th, followed by Tempe at 71st and Mesa at 83rd.
Some of Arizona’s largest cities were among its least happy, proving bigger isn't necessarily better. Phoenix ranked 106th, Glendale at 120th, and Tucson landed at a dismal 161st. We're guessing residents of the Old Pueblo weren't too happy with their ranking.
