Hardest-Working US Cities Revealed: See Where Yours Ranks

A fresh study has pinpointed the "hardest-working" cities in America, and the results might just confirm—or challenge—your assumptions about work ethic across the country.

WalletHub’s 2025 report evaluated 116 major cities using 11 key metrics, including employment rates, average weekly work hours, and the percentage of workers juggling multiple jobs. For context, the average U.S. worker clocks in 1,799 hours annually, according to the study.

Taking the crown as the hardest-working city is Anchorage, Alaska. It boasts a stellar employment rate nearing 97% and ranks third nationwide for the percentage of workers holding multiple jobs (7.6%). Unsurprisingly, Alaska itself is among the top five states where people average more than 40 hours per week. Anchorage residents are clearly not slowing down for snowstorms.

Hot on its heels, Washington, D.C., comes in second. Nearly 64% of the capital's workforce doesn’t take vacation time (seriously, D.C., take a break!), and the average commute stretches beyond 30 minutes, tacking extra hours onto already busy workdays. Adding to its industrious nature, 31% of D.C. residents participate in volunteer activities. Apparently, the city doesn’t just work hard—it works for free, too.

In third place, Irving, Texas, shines for having the lowest percentage of households where no adults work—just 12%. However, this drive comes at a cost, as Irving residents report having significantly less leisure time than most Americans. As WalletHub noted, “While Irving workers should be applauded for their dedication, it’s also important to avoid overwork and take some time to relax.” Easier said than done, right?

Rounding out the top five are Dallas, Texas, and Cheyenne, Wyoming. Other notable mentions include Austin, Texas (6th), Denver, Colorado (7th), and San Francisco, California (9th), exemplifying a mix of southern grit and western hustle.

On the flip side, Burlington, Vermont, claimed the unfortunate title of least hardworking city, landing in 116th place. Joining it at the bottom are Bridgeport, Connecticut; Newark, New Jersey; Buffalo, New York; and Detroit, Michigan. Looks like these cities might be mastering the art of work-life balance—or just the “life” part.

As WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo noted, "Hard work is the backbone of America’s economy, but overworking can also have serious physical and mental health consequences." His advice? Work hard, but don’t forget to work smart—and maybe take that vacation you’ve been putting off.