America's Weightiest Cities Revealed: Southern Struggles with Obesity
Sarah Johnson
March 22, 2025
Brief
A new study reveals McAllen, Texas, Little Rock, and Jackson as America’s most obese cities, highlighting rising health and economic consequences, especially in Southern U.S. communities.
The obesity epidemic in America continues to grow, with nearly 42% of adults classified as obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This staggering statistic carries a hefty price tag—$190.2 billion in obesity-related healthcare costs, as reported by the National League of Cities.
A recent WalletHub study compared 100 of the most populated U.S. metropolitan areas using 19 key indicators of weight-related challenges. The findings revealed the cities most plagued by obesity and related health issues in 2025. Spoiler alert: Southern cities topped the list.
McAllen, Texas took the dubious honor of being the most overweight city in America. Residents in Hidalgo County face serious challenges, with 45% of adults classified as obese and high rates of physical inactivity. McAllen also ranked third for obesity and overweight metrics, fifth for health consequences, and third for food and fitness challenges. Alarmingly, the city has the second-highest share of obese teenagers and the fifth-highest number of obese children. Chronic health conditions like diabetes and heart disease are widespread, with McAllen ranking eighth and fourth, respectively, in these categories.
In second place is Little Rock, Arkansas, where nearly 23% of children aged 10 to 17 are obese. The city ranks fourth for health consequences and fifth for obesity and overweight metrics. Limited access to healthy foods and a lack of health educators compound the issue. WalletHub predicts the obesity problem in Little Rock will worsen, with the city projected to have the second-highest obesity rates in 2030.
Rounding out the top three is Jackson, Mississippi. Though third overall, the city ranks first in the obesity and overweight category. About 37% of adults in Jackson are obese, with similarly high rates among children and teens. Lack of access to healthy food and physical inactivity are identified as major contributors. The city also has the second-highest percentage of residents who have had a stroke and the sixth-highest rate of high blood pressure.
Experts like Dr. Cristina Palacios from Florida International University emphasize the importance of gradual dietary changes to combat obesity. "Start small," she advises. "For example, replace sugary drinks with water during meals. This simple shift can significantly reduce calorie intake over time."
As the numbers show, the obesity issue in America is not just a personal health concern—it’s a community problem with far-reaching social and economic consequences. Addressing it will require a combination of improved access to healthy foods, better education, and investments in recreational opportunities. In the meantime, southern cities like McAllen, Little Rock, and Jackson are shouldering much of the burden.
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Editor's Comments
It’s hard to ignore the irony of fast-food havens struggling with weight issues. These rankings aren't just numbers—they're a wake-up call. McAllen topping the list feels particularly symbolic since it's right in the heart of Texas, where big portions and hearty meals are almost cultural staples. The fact that many residents lack access to healthy food is a cruel twist. Little Rock’s projected obesity rate for 2030 is also a jaw-dropper. What’s the plan, people? Let’s hope these cities can turn this around before these grim stats become a permanent reality.
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