Obesity is a major issue in America, with almost 42% of U.S. adults classified as obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Factors such as limited access to healthy foods and education, as well as the convenience of fast food options, contribute to this problem. The National League of Cities recently reported that obesity-related healthcare costs in America have reached $190.2 billion.
A recent study by WalletHub compared 100 of the most populated metropolitan areas using 19 key indicators related to weight problems to identify the most overweight and obese cities in 2025. Experts suggest that increasing fresh food consumption could help address diet-related illnesses.
Cities were ranked based on three dimensions: obesity and overweight, health consequences, and food and fitness. Chip Lupo, a WalletHub analyst from South Carolina, emphasized the increasing prevalence of obesity in the U.S. and its significant financial impact.
According to the study, cities with high rates of obesity often lack easy access to healthy food and recreational opportunities. Investing in these areas could help improve residents’ diets and exercise habits and reduce overall financial burdens.
Obesity is defined by the CDC as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, with severe obesity categorized as a BMI of 40 or higher. Cities such as McAllen, Texas, and Little Rock, Arkansas, were identified as some of the most overweight in the country based on the study’s findings.
For instance, McAllen, Texas, was ranked as the most overweight city due to factors like low access to parks and high rates of obesity and physical inactivity. Similarly, Little Rock, Arkansas, was projected to have one of the highest obesity rates by 2030, with high numbers of obese children and adults facing weight-related health conditions.
Both cities are expected to face ongoing challenges with obesity in the future, emphasizing the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles and access to nutritious foods for residents.
According to WalletHub, Jackson, Mississippi, ranks No. 3 overall but takes the top spot for obesity and overweight rates. The city also has the second-highest number of physically inactive adults, a significant factor contributing to the high levels of overweight and obese residents. Approximately 37% of adults in Jackson are classified as obese, with elevated rates among children and teenagers as well. In terms of medical conditions, Jackson has the second-highest prevalence of stroke and the sixth-highest incidence of high blood pressure among its residents.
One key issue highlighted by WalletHub is the limited access to healthy food options for many Jackson residents. Obesity, as defined by the CDC, is having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, while severe obesity is indicated by a BMI of 40 or higher. Dr. Cristina Palacios, a professor at Florida International University, stresses the importance of adopting a healthy diet to manage weight effectively.
Dr. Palacios recommends making gradual improvements to dietary habits rather than attempting a complete overhaul at once. For instance, she suggests switching to water instead of sugary beverages like juice or soda as a first step. This adjustment may take time as individuals adjust to the change, but it can be a powerful initial move since liquid calories are often overlooked by the brain, leading to excess calorie consumption throughout the day.
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