Turns Out Montana Residents Aren't Actually So Happy

Montana has been a bit romanticized in the last few years, as TV shows and movies have made it out to be what residents always thought it was - an untouched and unspoiled place that was a reminder of the way things once were.

I mean it's why our state has the nickname "The Last Best Place," but if it truly is that, why are Montana residents so unhappy?

Get our free mobile app

I don't believe Montana residents are unhappy because the state has experienced some changes in the last few years.

People moving to our state from all over America has been happening for decades. COVID might have juiced the numbers a bit, but we've always been a place people wanted to move to.

No, I think the reason Montana ranks so low on the WalletHub Happiest States In America rankings is for another reason all together.

RELATED: Love Sunny Weather Then These 10 Montana Cities Are The Best

Canva

Montana Lack Of Sun This Time Of Year Is Devastating

The winter months can be long and depressing in Montana.

Even more so if you aren't someone who enjoys winter activities like skiing, snowmobiling or ice fishing.

Plus, it's been proven that in states like ours, people suffer from something called "Seasonal Affective Disorder," or SAD, which can be due to the lack of sun we get.

What is SAD?

According to John Hopkins Medicine:

Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is type of depression. It happens during certain seasons of the year—most often fall or winter. It is thought that shorter days and less daylight may trigger a chemical change in the brain leading to symptoms of depression.

I could be wrong, but see for yourself, as we take a look and see where Montana falls in WalletHub's Happiest States In America ranking. 👇

Is Your State Bummed Out? Ranking the Happiest States in America

How happy are you? Does your state share your mood? WalletHub crunched data from around the US to determine where Americans exhibit the best combination of these factors. They examined the 50 states across 30 key metrics, ranging from the depression rate and the share of adults feeling productive to income growth and the unemployment rate.

For a full breakdown of the methodology, scroll to the bottom of the gallery.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

KEEP READING: Here's 8 States That Have Longer And Harsher Winters Than Montana

Winter can be brutal here in Montana with lots of wind, snow, and temperatures well below zero. In fact, that alone should be a word of warning for those thinking of moving here from warmer climates.

A lot goes into being prepared to live in a state with rough winters and if you've never done it before, you certainly need to make sure that you are prepared. You need to make sure you have the right tires, vehicle, and winter clothing. Plus, I would highly suggest you learn how to drive in winter conditions before moving to a state that celebrates winter 6 months out of the year.

And while winters can be very rough here in Montana, we don't even crack the Top 5 for States With The Most Brutal Winters.

Gallery Credit: Derek Wolf