Between 2017 and 2020, about 42 percent of the U.S. adult population were living with obesity. This chronic condition is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Researchers track obesity rates across different states to understand public health trends and identify areas where additional support may be needed.

Knowing where obesity is most common can help researchers identify trends. They may be able to help people manage obesity and its impact on physical health, mental wellness, and life expectancy.

Read on to discover which states have the highest and lowest adult obesity rates.

1. West Virginia

West Virginia has the highest obesity rate in the U.S., according to 2023 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About 41.2 percent of adults in West Virginia live with the condition.

One contributing factor may be low levels of physical activity. Only 31.2 percent of West Virginia’s population report engaging in regular physical activity. Managing obesity typically requires a combination of lifestyle factors, including nutrition, movement, and behavioral changes. Lack of physical activity can increase the risk of obesity and related health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.

West Virginia has taken steps to address obesity. For instance, West Virginia HealthRight’s Sustainable Change and Lifestyle Enhancement (SCALE) program offers free weight-loss support for residents with lower incomes. Programs like SCALE offer classes on exercise and nutritional education, helping participants develop long-lasting lifestyle changes.

2. Mississippi

In 2023, approximately 40.1 percent of Mississippi adults were living with obesity. Several factors may be behind the state’s high obesity rates.

One of these factors involves the many food deserts in the state. These are locations where access to affordable, nutritious food is limited.

Mississippi also has the highest rate of food insecurity in America. Food insecurity means people struggle to consistently access enough food to maintain a healthy diet. Research shows that food insecurity is a risk factor for obesity, as people may rely on lower-cost, calorie-dense foods that are often less nutritious.

One of the most common suggestions for people managing obesity is to follow a consistent eating pattern. However, food insecurity can make this difficult, as individuals may not have reliable access to healthy options.

Organizations like The Mississippi Obesity Action Plan are working to educate local communities on healthy lifestyle choices. These groups also advocate for long-term changes in policy around nutrition.

3. Arkansas

About 40 percent of Arkansas adults were living with obesity in 2023. Similar to Mississippi, Arkansas has a high number of food deserts. Plus, nearly 19 percent of people in Arkansas have trouble accessing healthy food.

In 2022, the Arkansas Governor’s Food Desert Working Group began a program to work toward eliminating food deserts. The group developed a detailed plan to combat food scarcity in Arkansas to help find solutions. For instance, one suggestion was to offer tax incentives to encourage grocers to open stores in underserved areas.

In addition, the Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention is creating programs to boost physical activity and improve healthy eating in the state.

4. Louisiana

Approximately 39.9 percent of Louisiana adults were living with obesity in 2023. Food insecurity is also high in Louisiana, affecting 683,000 residents in the state. Limited access to nutritious food may contribute to the state’s high obesity rates.

Insufficient access to healthcare could also play a role. Organizations such as the Louisiana Chronic Disease Collective are focused on reducing obesity in Louisiana. Among the group’s initiatives are improving access to education, pushing for new policy initiatives, and boosting residents’ access to healthcare providers.

5. Alabama

About 39.2 percent of Alabama adults were living with obesity in 2023. Like many of the other states, Alabama has a high prevalence of food deserts, which means they have limited access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods. Food scarcity is also an issue, affecting about 23 percent of children and 17 percent of adults in the state.

Several initiatives in Alabama are targeted toward helping reduce obesity rates. The Alabama Wellness Alliance has launched a plan to improve physical activity and wellness. The program will also educate residents on healthy eating. State policymakers have also rolled out programs to reduce food deserts and expand access to nutritious food.

Which States Have the Lowest Obesity Rates?

The CDC also identified areas in the U.S. with the lowest adult obesity rates, including Washington, D.C. and several states. Based on the 2023 data, these regions had the lowest percentage of residents who meet the BMI threshold for obesity:

• Washington, D.C. — 23.5 percent
• Colorado — 24.9 percent
• Hawaii — 26.1 percent
• Massachusetts — 27.4 percent
• California — 27.7 percent

What’s Behind the Numbers?

The states with lower and higher levels of obesity may be influenced by demographic factors. This describes the features of people living in those states, such as their income level, age, race, ethnicity, and education.

For instance, people from neighborhoods with a lower socioeconomic status are more likely to live with obesity than those from higher socioeconomic status areas. Louisiana, Mississippi, West Virginia, and Arkansas are among the lowest-income states in the U.S. They’re also on the list of states with the highest obesity rates.

Education level is another factor. Data shows that 36.5 percent of adults with a high school diploma or equivalent are living with obesity. In contrast, only 27.1 percent of college graduates met the obesity BMI threshold. Education levels are lower in the states with the highest obesity rates.

Obesity is a complex condition with many contributing factors. If you have questions about your BMI or weight, consider talking to your doctor about possible underlying factors and personalized health strategies.

What Are the Classes of Obesity?

If you’ve been diagnosed with obesity, your doctor may assign a class to your diagnosis. These classes are based on body mass index, a measurement that compares your weight to your height. BMI is calculated by dividing a person’s weight (in kilograms) by their height (in meters squared). While BMI is a widely used screening tool, it does not account for differences in muscle mass, fat distribution, or other health factors.

What Is Class 1 Obesity?

Class 1 obesity describes a person with a BMI between 30 and 34.9. So if your doctor determines your BMI is 32, for instance, you’re in class 1.

What Is Class 2 Obesity?

If your BMI is 35 or higher, but less than 40, you’d be classified as class 2 obesity. For example, someone with a BMI of 37 would be classified as class 2.

What Is Class 3 Obesity?

Anyone with a BMI of 40 or higher is considered class 3. For example, someone with a BMI of 42.5 would be classified as class 3.

Speak to Your Doctor

Remember that BMI is just one measure of health and doesn’t account for factors like muscle mass, body composition, or overall well-being. Your doctor can assess your health by considering other indicators, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and lifestyle habits.

If you’re concerned about your weight or overall health, talk to a healthcare provider. They can help you understand your individual risk factors and develop a personalized plan to support your health goals.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On MyObesityTeam, the social network for people with obesity and their loved ones, more than 56,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with obesity.

Is your state on the list? Did any of these statistics surprise you? Share your thoughts in the comments below, start a conversation by posting on your Activities page, or connect with like-minded members in Groups.