Forget “Granite.” New Hampshire is the “Donna Summer” State.
We’re working hard for the money.
And according to a new analysis from WalletHub, we’re working harder than any of our Northeastern neighbors.
New Hampshire has been ranked #7 on the list of America’s hardest-working states, just the latest in a series of data reviews putting the Granite State at or near the top for economic and fiscal exceptionalism.
“This ranking is something to be proud of and is a testament to the strength of our workforce,” said New Hampshire Employment Security Commissioner George N. Copadis. “We’ve added more private sector jobs post-pandemic than any other state in the Northeast, and we see fantastic participation from job seekers in our programs and services. New Hampshire Employment Security will continue to support our growing workforce and ensure hardworking Granite Staters have the opportunity to thrive.”
The study compared all 50 states across 10 key indicators of work ethic, ranging from average weekly hours and employment rates to the share of residents with multiple jobs and the amount of vacation time left unused. Americans already work more than most of their peers in developed countries—an average of 1,805 hours per year, according to the World Economic Forum—but WalletHub found that residents of some states are especially industrious.
“It’s undeniable that America has fostered a culture of hard work, with people working longer hours than residents of other developed countries and often leaving vacation time on the table,” said WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo.
The data used in this analysis is current as of July 28, and came from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Travel Association, and Gallup.
New Hampshire’s appearance in the top 10 is notable given the regional trend. While Western and Southern states often dominate rankings of work intensity, New Hampshire’s workforce bucked the regional pattern, the only state north of Virginia to crack the top 20.
That distinction mirrors the state’s broader political and economic uniqueness. In deep-blue New England, New Hampshire stands apart as the only state with a Republican-controlled legislature and one of just two with a GOP governor. Vermont’s Republican governor, Phil Scott, is an unabashed liberal who voted for Democrats Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. By contrast, Gov. Kelly Ayotte, New Hampshire’s first-term leader, is a center-right Republican who has backed several high-profile conservative causes like school choice and ending sanctuary city policies.
The state’s hard-working reputation dovetails with other top rankings New Hampshire has collected in recent months. It was rated the most economically free state in the nation and earned the top spot for taxpayer return on investment, according to a recent study. U.S. News and World Report also consistently places New Hampshire among the best states to live in America, citing its low crime rates, strong healthcare, and high-quality education system.
Michael Skelton, president and CEO of the Business and Industry Association of New Hampshire, says he isn’t surprised by the news.
“The quality of our workforce is frequently cited by firms choosing to expand and grow in New Hampshire,” Skelton told NHJournal. One factor is the composition of our workforce, which trends older, given the demographics of the state and the northeast overall. That means we have a higher percentage of workers with more experience and training than many other states.
“New Hampshire also has one of the highest labor force participation rates in the country at 65 percent (13th in the U.S. in 2024).”
For policymakers and employers, the findings underscore a theme familiar to longtime residents: New Hampshire’s workforce is not only highly engaged but also highly efficient. Whether measured by hours on the job, commitment to work, or community involvement, the Granite State continues to outperform much of the country.
And in a region where leisure and lifestyle often take priority, New Hampshire’s work ethic sets it apart—once again giving the Granite State bragging rights among its New England neighbors.
“New Hampshire’s greatest advantage is our people, which is why this ranking comes as no surprise,” said Ayotte. “Hardworking, independent Granite Staters give their all every day, not just in their jobs, but in their communities serving others.
“It’s thanks to them that we are a beacon of freedom and opportunity for New England and our nation.”
