One Kentucky City Among the Laziest in America Based on New Study

In March 2025, coinciding with National Nutrition Month, WalletHub published its annual report on the Most Overweight and Obese Cities in the U.S. The study evaluated 100 of the most populated U.S. metro areas across 19 key indicators of weight-related issues, including obesity rates, health consequences, and food and fitness environments. The Kentucky city that topped the list may come as a surprise!

Based on various studies, Kentucky is notoriously known as the unhealthiest state in the country. We have a lot of work ahead of us to improve those findings, and it's crucial for our health and future. I’ll be the first to admit that I have work to do. Every day, I look in the mirror and see the results of my choices. It’s time to put down the chicken wings, fries, burgers, steak, and snacks. I’m guilty of eating like a ten-year-old, and I wish I had more of a taste for vegetables and healthier options. It’s tough, but I know it’s something I need to change for the sake of my well-being and those I care about. What about you?

LEXINGTON RANKED AS UNHEALTHY

As a college town, I was surprised Lexington ranked poorly in the study based on physical activity, especially with many outdoor spaces, trails, and gyms. That wasn't the case as Lexington ranked 4th in % of Physically Inactive Adults. They also ranked 38th as the Fattest Cities in the U.S. in the country, according to the data compiled by Wallethub.

"The biggest mistake I see people make is that they let marketing campaigns tell them what is healthy. Many ultra-processed foods are being sold as health foods. Food manufacturers also mislead consumers by having nutrients added to a food item to make it look healthier. These are always more expensive and are usually less healthy. Instead, people should focus on buying real food that is not processed and which contains nutrients naturally. This helps consumers avoid many of the additives that abnormally attract us to junk food.", Katie Holton - Provost Associate Professor, Health Studies, College of Arts & Sciences – American University

STUDY METHODOLOGY

To determine the fattest cities in America, WalletHub compared 100 of the most populated U.S. metro areas across three key dimensions: 1) Obesity & Overweight, 2) Health Consequences, and 3) Food & Fitness. These categories take into account factors such as obesity rates, the prevalence of weight-related health issues, access to healthy food options, and opportunities for physical activity.

Get our free mobile app

MOST OVERWEIGHT & OBESE CITIES

1. McAllen, TX
2. Little Rock,
3. Jackson, MS
4. Mobile, AL
5. Knoxville, TN
6. Shreveport, LA
7. Augusta, GA
8. Lafayette, LA
9. Fayetteville, AR
10. Birmingham, AL

STATE-BY-STATE BREAKDOWN