No Breaks, No Holidays: These 3 U.S. States Have the Hardest-Working Workforce

In the United States, some states stand out for having workers who put in more hours than the rest of the country. Driven by ambition and the pursuit of higher earnings, these employees often work day and night.

According to the World Economic Forum (WEF), the average American works 1,805 hours annually, far more than workers in Germany (470 hours) or other developed nations like Colombia (447 hours). This intense work culture has resulted in fewer holidays and rising mental stress, as workers fear being labeled lazy if they take time off.

Here are the top three hardest-working states in the U.S.:

1. North Dakota
In North Dakota, working hard is not just about financial necessity—it’s a lifestyle. The state boasts a 98% employment rate, making jobs relatively easy to find. Adults aged 16–64 work an average of 39.6 hours per week, and 33.5% of workers don’t take their allotted vacation time, according to WalletHub.

2. Alaska
Alaska tops the chart in weekly work hours, with employees putting in an average of 41.6 hours per week. Life in this remote state is challenging, with industries like oil extraction and fishing demanding long hours. Many residents juggle multiple jobs, and 27.5% skip vacations entirely.

3. South Dakota
South Dakota also ranks among the hardest-working states. 6.1% of the workforce holds multiple jobs, and only a small portion of young adults (18–24) are neither studying nor employed. With an employment rate of 98%, residents demonstrate remarkable commitment to work.

These statistics highlight the dedication and work ethic of Americans in these states, showing that achieving success often comes at the cost of long hours and minimal rest.