Which US states commit the most hours to work?

The American work ethic remains a defining characteristic of the nation’s culture, but recent data suggests that not all states embody this trait equally. A staggering 94% of U.S. service professionals report working more than 50 hours per week, far exceeding the standard 40-hour workweek.

A new study by WalletHub has shed light on which states awork the longest, while also raising questions about work-life balance across the country.

North Dakota emerged as the hardest-working state in America, boasting an impressive employment rate of over 98% for individuals aged 16 to 64. The state’s workforce clocks an average of 39.7 hours per week, ranking third nationally in this category. However, this commitment comes at a cost, with North Dakota recording the second-lowest amount of daily leisure time among all states.

Alaska secured the second position, with residents working an average of 41.6 hours per week – the highest in the nation. The state also ranked ninth in terms of workers holding multiple jobs, indicating a strong work ethic but potentially highlighting economic pressures.

Nebraska rounded out the top three, with 7.4% of its workforce juggling multiple jobs. The state also jas the fifth-highest volunteer hours per capita.

The study revealed some striking disparities across states:

Work-life balance concerns

Despite the strong work ethic displayed by many states, the study raises concerns about work-life balance. Only 48% of Americans reported using all of their paid time off last year.

Younger generations appear to be particularly affected by this imbalance with a striking 83% of millennials and Gen Z individuals in America reported feeling they did not have it. A Deloitte study also showed that balancing workj and life is the top concern of Gen Zers.