New York Ranked Among Most Exhausted States

New Yorkers report high levels of burnout, sleep issues, and nutrition-related fatigue

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A new study found that New York ranked third among the most exhausted states in the country, with residents reporting high levels of burnout, sleep problems, and inconsistent eating habits that are taking a toll on their energy levels.

Why it matters

The findings highlight the growing mental health and wellness challenges facing New Yorkers, as work demands, busy schedules, and everyday stress appear to be major contributors to the state's high levels of fatigue and exhaustion.

The details

The study analyzed Google search data from January 2026, tracking terms related to trouble sleeping, feeling burned out, lack of focus, poor diet, and extreme tiredness. New York ranked third nationwide on the researchers' "Exhaustion Index", behind only Utah and California. The state scored particularly high for burnout and concentration-related searches, as well as sleep issues like insomnia and difficulty recovering overnight. New Yorkers also reported more nutrition-related fatigue, including energy crashes and inconsistent eating habits. Surprisingly, physical exhaustion was less of a factor, suggesting the state's fatigue issues are more tied to mental stress and lifestyle pressures than physical activity.

  • The study looked at Google search data from January 2026.

The players

New York

The state of New York, which ranked third among the most exhausted states in the country according to the study.

Utah

The state that ranked first on the "Exhaustion Index" according to the study.

California

The state that ranked second on the "Exhaustion Index" according to the study.

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What’s next

Researchers suggest that New Yorkers who are feeling tired or stressed should check in on their sleep, nutrition, and stress levels, as small changes can make a bigger difference than expected. If exhaustion persists, they recommend talking to a professional.

The takeaway

The findings underscore the growing mental health and wellness challenges facing New Yorkers, as work demands, busy schedules, and everyday stress appear to be major contributors to the state's high levels of fatigue and exhaustion, highlighting the need for greater support and resources to help residents address these issues.