New Research Reveals Three Worst U.S. States for Sleep

During the past 12 months in the United States, there were more than 325,500 Google searches for the phrase “I can’t sleep.” However, residents in some states seem to fare worse than others for sleep-related issues. Kent, England-based online mattress retailer MattressNextDay recently released a report revealing the top three worst states in America for sleep are Alaska, California and West Virginia. According to a recent article on MattressNextDay’s website, its research analyzed factors including mental health levels, stress rates, noise pollution and access to green spaces. 

Alaska — the worst offender for a good night’s sleep — received a low score for its cold average annual temperature of just 26.6 degrees Fahrenheit and the “second-highest crime rate per 100,000 people.” In second place, California got low marks for noise pollution since most of its population lives in large cities like San Francisco, San Diego and Los Angeles. According to the same article, West Virginia has “one of the highest volumes of population with mental health disorders, which can have a big impact on the quality of sleep that you can get.”    

Rounding out the top five are New Mexico and Louisiana, dinged for a high crime rate and extreme temperatures, respectively. Alternatively, Hawaii, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine rank as the best states for a good night’s sleep. Whether your state lands on the best or worst list, Martin Seeley, CEO of MattressNext Day, has a few tips to help create the ideal sleep environment.  

Control noise 

“Noise can disrupt your sleep quality significantly,” says Martin Seeley, CEO of MattressNextDay. “So, it’s a good idea to invest in earplugs, white noise machines or soundproofing materials to minimize disturbances. By managing the noise around you, you can create a more tranquil sleep environment conducive to restorative sleep.”  

Prioritize safety 

“Feeling safe and secure is essential for quality sleep, especially in areas with higher crime levels,” Seeley adds. If possible, he recommends enhancing security measures including alarms, locks and motion-activated lighting to help assuage anxiety.  

Regulate temperature and light 

“Optimize room temperature using appropriate bedding and climate control devices to ensure comfort throughout the night,” Seeley says. “Control light exposure by using blackout curtains, dimming lights or wearing eye masks to promote the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.”  

Establish a routine 

Seeley recommends sticking to a regular sleep schedule by waking up at the same time every day, weekends included. “By establishing a routine, you help synchronize your body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed,” Seeley says. 

To view the complete rankings of the best and worst states for a good night’s sleep, visit https://www.mattressnextday.co.uk/snooze-news. 

Read more from our Consumer Corner on sleep: 4 in 5 People in Relationships Are Losing Sleep.