Why the Bluegrass State Ranks Among America’s Most Obese

With November marking National Diabetes Awareness Month, it’s a good time to take a closer look at how our health habits are affecting not just our well-being but also our wallets. The personal-finance site WalletHub just released its annual report on the Most Overweight and Obese States in America for 2025, and, unfortunately, Kentucky found itself near the top of the list.

A Growing Problem

Being overweight has become almost the norm in America. The latest CDC data shows that about four in ten adults are obese, and one in ten falls into the severely obese category. While rates are lower among children and teens, they’ve climbed sharply over the past few decades. It’s no wonder the weight-loss industry is booming and is now worth an estimated $90 billion, and obesity continues to cost the U.S. healthcare system roughly $173 billion each year.

The Heaviest States

At the top of the list, West Virginia once again claims the unwanted title of the nation’s most overweight and obese state, followed closely by Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana. These Southern states continue to struggle with high obesity rates and related health consequences such as diabetes and heart disease, conditions that can take a toll on both quality of life and healthcare costs.

On the other hand, the healthiest states are concentrated in the West, where residents appear to have achieved a better balance between food and fitness. Colorado and Utah lead the way as the least overweight and obese states, with places like Hawaii, California, and Massachusetts also earning top marks for healthier lifestyles and access to recreation.

Kentucky’s Weighty Challenge

But the numbers hit even closer to home when you look at Kentucky, which ranked 7th overall on WalletHub’s 2025 list, landing the Bluegrass State among the heaviest in the nation. The data shows that nearly one in three adults in Kentucky is obese, placing the state 8th for adult obesity and 6th for Type 2 diabetes. It’s not just adults feeling the effects, either. Kentucky also ranks 13th for childhood obesity and 18th for overweight children, showing that these challenges start early and can last a lifetime.

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Physical inactivity is a factor, with the state ranking 13th for adults who report getting little to no exercise and poor diet habits. Kentuckians are the 13th most likely to eat fewer than one serving of fruits or vegetables per day. These lifestyle patterns contribute to high rates of hypertension (7th nationally) and cholesterol issues (24th), proving unhealthy routines are taking a real toll.

While Kentucky’s ranking isn’t new, it’s a wake-up call. From expanding access to nutritious food and safe places to exercise, to promoting diabetes prevention and education, there’s plenty of room for progress, and this November might be the perfect time to start the conversation! We can all make a difference.

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Gallery Credit: Madison Troyer