Obesity Rates in US 2025
The United States continues to face a significant public health crisis with obesity rates reaching epidemic proportions across all states and territories. According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), obesity affects over 4 in 10 American adults, with 23 states reporting adult obesity rates at or above 35% in 2023. This represents a dramatic increase from 2012, when no state had an adult obesity rate at or above 35%, highlighting the accelerating nature of this health emergency.
The geographic distribution of obesity reveals stark regional disparities, with the Midwest (36.0%) and South (34.7%) leading the nation in obesity prevalence, followed by the West (29.1%) and Northeast (28.6%). These statistics underscore the complex interplay of socioeconomic factors, environmental conditions, and policy decisions that contribute to obesity rates across different regions. Understanding these patterns is crucial for developing targeted interventions and policies to address this growing health crisis that affects millions of Americans and costs the healthcare system billions of dollars annually.
Facts About Obesity in the United States 2025
| Obesity Fact | Statistics |
|---|---|
| National Adult Obesity Rate | Over 40% of US adults |
| States with 35%+ Obesity Rate | 23 states in 2023 |
| Highest Regional Obesity Rate | Midwest at 36.0% |
| Lowest Regional Obesity Rate | Northeast at 28.6% |
| States with 40%+ Obesity Rate | 3 states (Arkansas, Mississippi, West Virginia) |
| Minimum State Obesity Rate | All states above 20% |
| Youth Obesity Rate | Nearly 20% of children ages 2-19 |
| Obesity Rate Increase Since 1970s | More than tripled for youth |
| States with Significant Increases (2022-2023) | 3 states (Alaska, Arkansas, Oregon) |
| States with Significant Increases (2018-2023) | 28 states |
The data reveals alarming trends in obesity prevalence across the United States, with every single state and territory reporting obesity rates higher than 20%. This universal threshold indicates that obesity has become a nationwide epidemic affecting communities regardless of geographic location. The fact that three states have crossed the 40% threshold for adult obesity represents a critical milestone in the public health crisis, with Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia leading this concerning trend.
The demographic breakdown shows significant disparities, with Non-Hispanic Black adults having the highest obesity rates across states, followed by Hispanic adults and Non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Native adults. Education levels also play a crucial role, with 36.5% of adults without a high school diploma experiencing obesity compared to 27.1% of college graduates. Age patterns reveal that adults aged 45-54 years have the highest obesity prevalence at 39.2%, while young adults aged 18-24 have the lowest at 19.5%. These statistics highlight the complex social determinants of health that contribute to obesity disparities across different population groups.
Obesity Rates by State 2025
| Rank | State | Obesity Rate | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | West Virginia | 41.2% | 40%+ (Severe) |
| 2 | Mississippi | 40.1% | 40%+ (Severe) |
| 3 | Arkansas | 40.0% | 40%+ (Severe) |
| 4 | Louisiana | 39.9% | 35-39% (High) |
| 5 | Alabama | 39.2% | 35-39% (High) |
| 6 | Oklahoma | 38.8% | 35-39% (High) |
| 7 | Tennessee | 38.7% | 35-39% (High) |
| 8 | South Carolina | 38.4% | 35-39% (High) |
| 9 | Delaware | 38.3% | 35-39% (High) |
| 10 | Kentucky | 38.2% | 35-39% (High) |
| 11 | Indiana | 37.8% | 35-39% (High) |
| 12 | Kansas | 37.2% | 35-39% (High) |
| 13 | Ohio | 37.1% | 35-39% (High) |
| 14 | North Carolina | 36.9% | 35-39% (High) |
| 15 | Iowa | 36.8% | 35-39% (High) |
| 16 | Michigan | 36.6% | 35-39% (High) |
| 17 | Missouri | 36.5% | 35-39% (High) |
| 18 | Georgia | 36.3% | 35-39% (High) |
| 19 | Texas | 36.2% | 35-39% (High) |
| 20 | North Dakota | 36.1% | 35-39% (High) |
| 21 | Wisconsin | 36.0% | 35-39% (High) |
| 22 | Pennsylvania | 35.9% | 35-39% (High) |
| 23 | Nebraska | 35.1% | 35-39% (High) |
| 24 | Florida | 34.7% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 25 | Illinois | 34.1% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 26 | South Dakota | 33.9% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 27 | Maryland | 33.6% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 28 | Alaska | 33.5% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 29 | New Mexico | 33.2% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 30 | Virginia | 33.1% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 31 | Wyoming | 32.9% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 32 | Minnesota | 32.4% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 33 | Arizona | 32.3% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 34 | Maine | 32.1% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 35 | Idaho | 31.9% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 36 | Oregon | 31.6% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 37 | New Hampshire | 31.2% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 38 | Rhode Island | 30.9% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 39 | Montana | 30.6% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 40 | Nevada | 30.4% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 41 | Utah | 30.3% | 30-34% (Moderate) |
| 42 | Vermont | 29.1% | 25-29% (Lower) |
| 43 | New York | 28.9% | 25-29% (Lower) |
| 44 | Connecticut | 28.6% | 25-29% (Lower) |
| 45 | Washington | 28.4% | 25-29% (Lower) |
| 46 | New Jersey | 28.2% | 25-29% (Lower) |
| 47 | California | 27.7% | 25-29% (Lower) |
| 48 | Massachusetts | 27.4% | 25-29% (Lower) |
| 49 | Hawaii | 26.1% | 25-29% (Lower) |
| 50 | Colorado | 24.9% | 20-24% (Lowest) |
| 51 | District of Columbia | 23.5% | 20-24% (Lowest) |
This comprehensive ranking of all US states and territories by obesity rates reveals the full scope of the obesity epidemic across America. The data shows that only two jurisdictions fall below 25% obesity rates – Colorado (24.9%) and District of Columbia (23.5%) – while three states have crossed the critical 40% threshold. The geographic clustering is evident, with Southern states dominating the highest obesity categories and Northeastern and Western states generally performing better.
The categorization system helps identify intervention priorities, with 23 states falling into the “High” and “Severe” categories (35%+ obesity rates), representing nearly half of all US states. The 17 states in the “Moderate” category (30-34% obesity rates) suggest a middle tier where targeted interventions could prevent progression to higher obesity levels. The 8 states and DC in the “Lower” categories demonstrate that effective obesity prevention is possible but remains limited to a minority of jurisdictions across the country.
Most Obese States 2025
| Rank | State | Obesity Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | West Virginia | 41.2% |
| 2 | Mississippi | 40.1% |
| 3 | Arkansas | 40.0% |
| 4 | Louisiana | 39.9% |
| 5 | Alabama | 39.2% |
| 6 | Oklahoma | 38.8% |
| 7 | Tennessee | 38.7% |
| 8 | South Carolina | 38.4% |
| 9 | Delaware | 38.3% |
| 10 | Kentucky | 38.2% |
The top 10 most obese states reveal a concerning concentration of high obesity rates primarily in the Southern and some Midwestern regions of the United States. West Virginia leads the nation with a staggering 41.2% adult obesity rate, followed closely by Mississippi at 40.1% and Arkansas at 40.0%. These three states represent the only jurisdictions in the country where more than 4 in 10 adults are classified as obese, marking a critical public health emergency that demands immediate attention and comprehensive intervention strategies.
The geographic clustering of high-obesity states in the South reflects complex socioeconomic factors including limited access to healthy food options, higher rates of poverty, food deserts, and cultural dietary patterns that contribute to obesity prevalence. States like Louisiana (39.9%), Alabama (39.2%), and Tennessee (38.7%) demonstrate how regional factors can create environments that promote obesity. The presence of Delaware (38.3%) in this list shows that high obesity rates are not exclusively a Southern phenomenon, indicating that multiple factors beyond geographic region contribute to these concerning statistics across different parts of the country.
Least Obese States in the US 2025
| Rank | State/Territory | Obesity Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 23.5% |
| 2 | Colorado | 24.9% |
| 3 | Hawaii | 26.1% |
| 4 | Massachusetts | 27.4% |
| 5 | California | 27.7% |
| 6 | New Jersey | 28.2% |
| 7 | Washington | 28.4% |
| 8 | Connecticut | 28.6% |
| 9 | New York | 28.9% |
| 10 | Vermont | 29.1% |
The top 10 least obese states demonstrate significantly lower obesity rates compared to the national average, with District of Columbia leading at 23.5% and Colorado at 24.9%. These jurisdictions represent the only areas in the United States where adult obesity rates remain below 25%, indicating more favorable conditions for maintaining healthy weight. The list is dominated by Western and Northeastern states, along with Hawaii, suggesting that geographic, cultural, and policy factors in these regions may be more conducive to preventing obesity.
Colorado and Hawaii stand out as the only two states with obesity rates below 27%, representing the most successful examples of obesity prevention in the country. The concentration of Northeastern states like Massachusetts (27.4%), New Jersey (28.2%), and Connecticut (28.6%) in this list reflects higher educational attainment, better healthcare access, and more comprehensive public health policies in these regions. California’s inclusion at 27.7% is particularly significant given its large population size, demonstrating that effective obesity prevention can be achieved even in highly diverse, populous states. The fact that even these “best-performing” states still have more than 1 in 4 adults with obesity underscores the nationwide scope of this public health challenge.
Regional Obesity Patterns in the US 2025
| Region | Average Obesity Rate | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Midwest | 36.0% | Highest regional rate |
| South | 34.7% | Second highest, most states above 35% |
| West | 29.1% | Third highest, includes lowest state rates |
| Northeast | 28.6% | Lowest regional rate |
The regional analysis of obesity patterns reveals significant geographic disparities in obesity prevalence across the United States. The Midwest leads with the highest regional obesity rate at 36.0%, followed closely by the South at 34.7%. These two regions account for the majority of states with obesity rates exceeding 35%, indicating systemic factors that contribute to higher obesity prevalence in these areas. The geographic concentration suggests that regional food systems, economic conditions, cultural factors, and policy environments play crucial roles in shaping obesity outcomes.
The West (29.1%) and Northeast (28.6%) demonstrate lower regional obesity rates, with the Northeast showing the most favorable outcomes across the country. This regional pattern aligns with broader socioeconomic indicators, including higher educational attainment, better healthcare infrastructure, and more comprehensive public health policies in Northeastern states. The Western region’s mixed results reflect the diversity within this geographic area, encompassing both states with very low obesity rates like Colorado and Hawaii, as well as states with higher rates. These regional differences highlight the importance of tailored approaches to obesity prevention that account for local conditions, resources, and cultural contexts.
Demographic Disparities in Obesity Rates in the US 2025
| Demographic Group | Obesity Prevalence | States with 35%+ Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Hispanic Black Adults | Highest rates | 38 out of 46 states |
| Hispanic Adults | High rates | 34 out of 47 states |
| Non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaska Native | High rates | 30 out of 45 states |
| Non-Hispanic White Adults | Moderate rates | 16 out of 47 states |
| Non-Hispanic Asian Adults | Lowest rates | 0 out of 38 states |
The demographic breakdown of obesity rates reveals profound disparities across racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Non-Hispanic Black adults experience the highest obesity rates, with 38 out of 46 states reporting obesity prevalence at or above 35% for this population. This alarming statistic reflects systemic inequities in healthcare access, food security, neighborhood environments, and economic opportunities that disproportionately affect Black communities. The widespread nature of these high rates across nearly all states indicates that these disparities are not localized but represent a national pattern of health inequity.
Hispanic adults and Non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaska Native adults also face disproportionately high obesity rates, with 34 out of 47 states and 30 out of 45 states respectively showing obesity prevalence above 35%. In stark contrast, Non-Hispanic Asian adults show the lowest obesity rates, with no states reporting obesity prevalence above 35% for this population. These disparities highlight the critical need for culturally competent interventions, targeted policy approaches, and community-based programs that address the unique challenges faced by different demographic groups. The data underscores how social determinants of health create unequal conditions that contribute to obesity disparities across racial and ethnic communities.
Education and Age Factors in Obesity Rates in the US 2025
| Education Level | Obesity Rate | Age Group | Obesity Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than High School | 36.5% | 18-24 years | 19.5% |
| High School Graduate | 34.7% | 25-34 years | 31.2% |
| Some College | 35.7% | 35-44 years | 37.8% |
| College Graduate | 27.1% | 45-54 years | 39.2% |
| 55-64 years | 38.4% | ||
| 65+ years | 33.9% |
The relationship between education and obesity demonstrates a clear inverse correlation, with college graduates showing significantly lower obesity rates at 27.1% compared to adults without a high school diploma at 36.5%. This 9.4 percentage point difference illustrates how educational attainment serves as a protective factor against obesity, likely through increased health literacy, better employment opportunities, higher incomes, and greater access to healthcare and healthy food options. Interestingly, adults with some college education show slightly higher rates (35.7%) than high school graduates (34.7%), suggesting that completing a full college degree may be necessary to realize the protective benefits of higher education.
The age-related patterns in obesity prevalence reveal that young adults aged 18-24 have the lowest obesity rates at 19.5%, while middle-aged adults aged 45-54 experience the highest rates at 39.2%. This pattern suggests that obesity typically develops over time, with rates increasing through middle age before declining slightly in older adults. The doubling of obesity rates between the youngest and highest-risk age groups indicates critical periods for intervention, particularly during the transition from young adulthood to middle age. The slight decrease in obesity rates among adults 65 and older (33.9%) may reflect survival bias, changes in body composition with aging, or different measurement challenges in older populations.
Recent Trends in Obesity Rates in the US 2025
| Time Period | Trend | Number of States |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 to 2023 | Significant Increases | 3 states (Alaska, Arkansas, Oregon) |
| 2022 to 2023 | Significant Decreases | 0 states |
| 2018 to 2023 | Significant Increases | 28 states |
| 2012 to 2023 | States with 35%+ Rate | Increased from 0 to 23 states |
The recent trends in obesity rates paint a concerning picture of continued deterioration in America’s weight-related health outcomes. Between 2022 and 2023, three states experienced statistically significant increases in their adult obesity rates (Alaska, Arkansas, and Oregon), while no states recorded a statistically significant decline. This pattern indicates that the obesity epidemic continues to worsen rather than stabilize, with Arkansas reaching the alarming 40% threshold during this period. The absence of any states showing improvement suggests that current prevention and intervention strategies are insufficient to reverse the obesity trend.
The longer-term perspective from 2018 to 2023 reveals an even more troubling pattern, with 28 states experiencing statistically significant increases in adult obesity rates over this five-year period. Perhaps most striking is the dramatic shift since 2012, when no state had an adult obesity rate at or above 35%, compared to 23 states reaching this threshold by 2023. This represents a fundamental transformation in the American obesity landscape, with nearly half of all states now having more than 1 in 3 adults with obesity. The consistent upward trajectory across multiple time periods indicates that obesity remains a growing public health crisis requiring urgent, comprehensive, and innovative approaches to prevention and treatment.
Conclusion
The obesity epidemic in the United States represents one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time, with every state and territory reporting adult obesity rates above 20% and 23 states reaching the critical 35% threshold in 2023. The data reveals stark geographic disparities, with Southern and Midwestern states disproportionately affected, while significant demographic inequities persist across racial, ethnic, educational, and age groups. The continued upward trend, with 28 states experiencing increases between 2018 and 2023, underscores the urgent need for comprehensive policy interventions addressing the social determinants of health that contribute to obesity disparities.
Moving forward, addressing this crisis requires multi-level approaches that combine individual behavior change support with systemic policy reforms targeting food environments, healthcare access, education, and community infrastructure. The successful examples of states like Colorado, Hawaii, and Massachusetts demonstrate that lower obesity rates are achievable through comprehensive public health strategies. However, the nationwide scope of this epidemic demands federal leadership, increased funding for prevention programs, and innovative interventions that address the complex interplay of factors contributing to obesity in American communities. Only through sustained, coordinated efforts can the United States hope to reverse these troubling trends and create healthier environments for all Americans.
Disclaimer: The data research report we present here is based on information found from various sources. We are not liable for any financial loss, errors, or damages of any kind that may result from the use of the information herein. We acknowledge that though we try to report accurately, we cannot verify the absolute facts of everything that has been represented.
