Originally published by WalletHub.
We all define “fun” a bit differently, and where to choose to live should cater to our personal ideas of entertainment. That’s not always the case, though, which may drive people to move somewhere new.
There are certain states where fun is not just an option but also a way of life. These states offer such a variety of activities that everyone will be able to find something that excites them, from people who crave the outdoors and athletics to those who would rather sit down for a film.
With pure enjoyment in mind, WalletHub compared the 50 states across 26 key indicators of a jolly good time that won’t break the bank. They range from movie costs to accessibility of national parks to nightlife options per capita. For a more local breakdown, check out WalletHub’s ranking of the Most Fun Cities in America.
Fun in Maryland (1=Most Fun; 25=Avg.):
- Overall Rank: 19th
- 26th – Restaurants per Capita
- 13th – Amusement Parks per Capita
- 24th – Performing-Arts Theaters per Capita
- 20th – Fitness Centers per Capita
- 15th – Access to National Parks
- 17th – Variety of Arts, Entertainment & Recreation Establishments
Florida
Florida is the most fun state in 2024, leading the country when it comes to the number of restaurants, amusement parks, arcades and music festivals per capita. But even if those particular activities aren’t of interest to you, Florida has the third-most attractions per capita, and the sixth-best variety of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments.
In addition, Florida is a great state for people who like to be outside. Although it does have very hot summers, the state has the 12th-best weather overall. It also has the most marinas per capita and the second-most miles of shoreline.
Finally, the Florida government spends a lot on parks and recreation, the eighth-most per capita. The average Floridian also spends over $2,000 per year on recreation expenses, the 14th-most in the country.
California
California is the second-most fun state in 2024, with an especially large number of restaurants, amusement parks, movie theaters, and fitness centers per capita. It also boasts the second-most attractions per capita overall.
For those who enjoy nightlife, the Golden State has a very high number of performing-arts establishments and music festivals per capita, along with the ninth-best access to bars. And even though California is one of the most expensive states for beer, it’s the sixth-least expensive for wine – likely due to the abundance produced locally.
When it comes to the outdoors, California has the most scenic byways per capita and the sixth-longest ones in the country. It also has the best beach access in the country and the fourth-best weather (at least, when it’s not too hot to go out).
Nevada
Nevada is the third-most fun state in the country, due in large part to its nightlife. It has the most nightlife activities per capita, including a very high number of music festivals and casinos per capita. For those who like to drink, bars are allowed to stay open 24/7 in Nevada, and the state has the 11th-lowest average beer price and 13th-lowest average wine price.
But having fun in Nevada isn’t all about partying. The Silver State also spends more money per capita on parks and recreation than any other state except three states, and it has the ninth-most acres of national parks. It has the second-best weather in the U.S., too.
Finally, Nevada has the fourth-most attractions per capita, and the 10th-best variety of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments.
