HONOLULU (KHON2) — Hawaiʻi is once again proving that island living can mean healthy living.
According to a new 2025 report from WalletHub, the state ranks in the top five least obese in the nation. Only California, Massachusetts, Utah and Colorado scored higher overall.
Here’s what we found in the report.
Healthy habits across the islands
The study compared all 50 states and the District of Columbia across 31 key metrics. These included obesity rates, physical activity and food access.
Hawaiʻi ranked No. 47 for the percentage of obese adults and No. 50 for overweight keiki. These numbers show that Hawaiʻi residents are staying healthier than most of the country.
The report also found that four in 10 adults across the United States are obese, and one in 10 are severely obese. But Hawaiʻi stands out as a place where residents are more active and make better food choices.
The study also noted that the state ranks 25th in food and fitness which shows a balance between nutrition and physical activity.
A national challenge
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that obesity costs the U.S. about $173 billion in health care each year.
The weight-loss and diet industry has grown to more than $90 billion. Still, according to the study’s Physical Activity Council findings, 61.8 million Americans aged six and older were completely inactive in 2024.
“While losing weight largely hinges on whether an individual chooses to eat healthy foods, limit their calorie intake and exercise consistently, certain states make shedding the pounds easier than others,” said Chip Lupo, an analyst for the study. “For example, some states are much better at regulating school lunches to make sure they are healthy, and have more opportunities for adults to buy fresh, nutritious ingredients. In addition, while anyone can exercise at home, some states provide far more locations for people to go to work out or play sports.”
Why Hawaiʻi stands out
Hawaiʻi’s lower obesity rate reflects a culture that values balance and movement. Access to fresh produce, outdoor activity and community wellness programs may contribute to the healthier outcomes across the islands.
Though the study didn’t name specific causes, it shows that Hawaiʻi continues to model positive health trends for the rest of the country.
Hawaiʻi’s position amongst the top five least obese states highlights how environment and community support can help residents make better choices for their well-being.
You can click here to access the full report.
With most states struggling to reduce obesity, Hawaiʻi’s results serve as a reminder that lifestyle and local food culture can make a measurable difference.