News Summary
WalletHub has identified Anchorage, Alaska, as the hardest-working city in America based on extensive analysis. The ranking considers metrics such as employment rates, average work hours, and community engagement. Anchorage boasts an impressive employment rate of nearly 97%, with residents working over 40 hours a week on average and a significant portion holding multiple jobs. This study illustrates the strong work ethic prevalent in urban populations across the nation, reflecting the cultural value of hard work tied to the American dream.
Anchorage Named Hardest-Working City in America
WalletHub has released its ranking of the hardest-working cities in America for 2025, with Anchorage, Alaska taking the top spot. This study analyzed 116 of the largest U.S. cities based on a variety of metrics related to both direct and indirect work factors. The findings shed light on how urban populations engage with their jobs and communities, showcasing the commitment to hard work across the nation.
The average American worker contributes approximately 1,799 hours each year, a figure that surpasses work hours in various developed countries. Compared to Japan, Americans work an average of 188 hours more; 275 hours more than those in the United Kingdom; and 456 hours more than German workers. This context illustrates a notable work ethic prevalent among U.S. workers.
Ranking Methodology
To arrive at the rankings, WalletHub evaluated multiple metrics that included average workweek hours, employment rates, the amount of unused vacation time, and active household work participation. The direct work factors encompassed aspects like the employment rate and workforce participation levels. Moreover, the study looked at indirect work factors such as average commute times, the proportion of individuals holding multiple jobs, and volunteer work contributions.
Highlights from Anchorage
Anchorage outperformed its competitors with an employment rate of nearly 97%. Residents in this city work over 40 hours per week on average, placing Anchorage among five states that consistently reach this standard. Additionally, 7.6% of Anchorage’s workforce takes on multiple jobs, reflecting a dedication to professional opportunities. Furthermore, Anchorage ranks as the eighth lowest in terms of leisure time, further emphasizing the strong work ethic of its residents.
Other Rankings
Following Anchorage, Washington, D.C. earned the second position on the list. In D.C., an impressive 64% of workers leave vacation time unused, contributing to a culture of hard work. Residents also work the fourth most hours per week and experience commutes averaging over 30 minutes. Notably, nearly 31% of D.C. residents volunteer in various organizations, indicating an engagement with community efforts beyond their careers.
Irving, Texas, secured the third spot with the lowest proportion of households without working adults, approximately 12%. The city ranks sixth in average work hours per week and boasts the third-highest rate of engaged workers, showcasing a robust work environment. This pattern of high engagement and productivity reflects a broad commitment across the highest-ranking cities.
Top Ten Hardest-Working Cities
- Anchorage, Alaska
- Washington, D.C.
- Irving, Texas
- Dallas, Texas
- Cheyenne, Wyoming
- Austin, Texas
- Denver, Colorado
- Virginia Beach, Virginia
- San Francisco, California
- Arlington, Texas
In a broader context, WalletHub’s study reflects a cultural value among Americans tied to the pursuit of the American dream. The higher engagement levels outline not just a commitment to personal success, but also a significant impact family and community dynamics, emphasizing hard work as a vital societal component.
State Performances
In Florida, the best-performing city was Tampa, ranking 30th overall, while Hialeah was the lowest-ranked city in the state at 73rd. Last overall was Burlington, Vermont, which placed at 116th.
The findings from this study point towards an ongoing national conversation about work-life balance, the value of hard work, and the importance of maintaining mental and physical health in the pursuit of professional obligations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Newsweek: Top 10 Hardest Working Cities
- Wikipedia: Work Ethic
- Fox News: Hardest Working US Cities
- Google Search: Hardest Working Cities
- 97.3 The Bull: Hardest Working Cities in America
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Work
- Secret DC: Hardest Working City 2025
- Google News: American Workplace
- PennLive: Hardest Working Cities in PA
- Google Scholar: Hardest Working Cities in America
- Click Orlando: Hardest Working City in Florida
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
