Study Shows Minnesotans Have A Natural Knack For Connection

Through the years I have always heard that Minnesota is a tough state for outsiders to break into, specifically when it comes to social situations and making friends.

However, a recent SmileHub study found that Minnesota is not only a great state for social connection, but it is actually the best in the entire country for making connections in the community.

The value of tight-knit communities where residents genuinely care for one another cannot be overstated. Strong social connections offer many benefits, after all, such as lower stress, anxiety, and depression levels. However, according to a Gallup survey, only 58% of U.S. adults feel extremely or very proud to be American, a new low since measurements began in 2001.

WE'RE NUMBER ONE 

Minnesota shone particularly brightly with the third-highest volunteer rate in the country. The Land of 10,000 Lakes also ranked highly in community and social service workers per capita (4th); civic and social organizations per capita (5th); community support charities per capita (6th) and economic security (8th).

Rounding out the top five were Utah (who also finished first in the community well being rank), Massachusetts, North Dakota and New Hampshire.

The bottom five states for community connection were Alabama (46th), Arkansas, Nevada, New Mexico and Louisiana.