Physical Inactivity Rates Vary Widely Across US States in 2024

New data from the United Health Foundation’s 2024 report, using figures from the US Department of Health and Human Services, highlights differences in physical inactivity rates among US states and territories.

According to the report, more than one in five adults nationwide said they did not engage in any physical activity outside of work during 2024. The findings show that inactivity rates differ considerably depending on the state or district.

Mississippi reported the highest percentage of adults not participating in physical activity outside of work, with 30.6%. West Virginia and Arkansas also had high rates, with 28.7% and 28.5% respectively. These figures place them among the least active states in the country based on the 2024 data.

At the other end of the spectrum, Washington, D.C. reported the lowest inactivity rate at 13.9%. Among the states, Colorado had the lowest share of adults reporting no physical activity outside of work at 15.6%. Vermont and Utah were also among the most active, with rates of 16% and 17% respectively.

What the numbers show

• 21.8% of US adults reported no leisure-time physical activity in 2024
• Mississippi’s inactivity rate was 30.6%, the highest among states
• Washington, D.C. recorded the lowest inactivity rate at 13.9%
• Colorado’s inactivity rate was 15.6%, lowest among states
• Vermont and Utah reported inactivity rates of 16% and 17%

The report draws on data collected by the US Department of Health and Human Services and is presented in the United Health Foundation’s “America’s Health Rankings.” The findings provide a state-by-state comparison of adults’ physical activity outside of work.

States with higher inactivity rates are primarily located in the southern region of the United States. The data also show that some states in the West and Northeast have lower rates of inactivity among adults.

Washington, D.C. and Colorado stand out for their lower rates of inactivity, while Mississippi, West Virginia, and Arkansas are noted for higher percentages of adults not engaging in physical activity outside work. Vermont and Utah also rank among the most active states according to the 2024 report.

The 2024 figures offer a snapshot of physical activity patterns across the country, based on self-reported data from adults. The report highlights ongoing differences in physical inactivity rates at the state level.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.