As each year comes to an end, many start thinking about New Year’s resolutions. Financial resolutions are especially important heading into 2024 after consumers have spent months battling high inflation and record interest rates. While it can be challenging to stick to goals, living in the right city may help achieve them.
According to a new report by the personal-finance website WalletHub, which compared 182 cities across 57 total metrics, Seattle, Washington is the top city for keeping your New Year’s resolutions in 2024. The next best cities are San Francisco, CA, and Scottsdale, AZ, while Newark, NJ is the worst city for keeping your resolutions.
Best vs. Worst
San Francisco, California, has the lowest share of obese adults, which is 2.5 times lower than in Akron, Ohio, the city with the highest.
Bismarck, North Dakota, has the lowest unemployment rate, which is 7.8 times lower than in Detroit, Michigan, the city with the highest.
Fremont, California, has the lowest share of delinquent debtors, which is 6.2 times lower than in Jackson, Mississippi, the city with the highest.
Jackson, Mississippi, has the lowest prevalence of adult binge drinking, which is 2.1 times lower than in Missoula, Montana, the city with the highest.
Fremont, California, has the lowest share of adult smokers, which is four times lower than in Detroit, Michigan, the city with the highest.
To view the full report, visit:
https://wallethub.com/edu/best-cities-for-new-years-resolutions/28749
“Seattle is the best city for keeping New Year’s resolutions this year, especially when it comes to physical and financial well-being. Seattleites are more likely than most to engage in physical activities, and a low percentage of people default on their debts,” said Cassandra Happe, WalletHub analyst. “San Francisco came in second place, with Golden City residents boasting the lowest median debt and the third-highest median credit score. Additionally, San Francisco has the lowest percentage of obese adults, which shows residents’ commitment to health resolutions. Scottsdale, Arizona, came in third place, with the highest number of fitness establishments per population and low monthly fitness club fees.”
At number four was Irvine, CA followed by San Diego, CA; Orlando, FL; Fremont, CA; Salt Lake City, UT; Austin, TX; and, number 10 on the best cities list was San Jose, CA. At the bottom of the list, rated as the 10 worst cities for keeping resolutions, were: San Bernardino CA at number 173, followed by Fayetteville, NC; Memphis, TN; Dover, DE; Huntington, WV; August, GA; Jackson, MS; Gulfport, MS; Shreveport, LA; and, at number 182, Newark, NJ.
Tips for keeping your New Year’s resolutions
Set Realistic Goals: Make sure your resolutions are achievable and specific. Setting a clear goal will make it easier to plan for success. Tell a friend or family member about your resolutions or find an accountability partner to help keep you on track. Sharing your goals with others can provide motivation and support.
Break It Down and Create a Plan: Divide your resolution into smaller, manageable steps or milestones for achievement. This can make the overall goal less daunting and help you track your progress. Develop a clear and actionable plan for achieving each milestone, as well as your overall goal. Write down the steps you need to take and set deadlines for each of them.
Stay Positive and Adaptable: Life can be unpredictable, and circumstances may change. A positive attitude is essential for maintaining your motivation. Focus on the progress you’ve made rather than dwelling on any setbacks, and don’t forget to celebrate your victories, no matter how small they seem. Also, be willing to adjust your resolutions or your plan as needed to stay on track.
Be Consistent and Patient: Consistency is key to achieving your resolutions. Make your new habits a part of your daily routine, and don’t forget that change takes time. Setbacks are a normal part of the process, too, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results.
