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Boulder, Fort Collins Score High in Survey of Wellbeing

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Boulder and Fort Collins have topped another list this year -- this one focusing on the topic of overall wellbeing. 

The Gallup-Healthways Wellbeing Index measures a community’s health not only as the absence of disease, but as a state of physical, mental and social well-being.  Out of 188 metropolitan areas surveyed, Boulder was ranked number one, with an overall score of 73.7.  And the Fort Collins-Loveland community earned the third-highest score of 72.1.

 “When you look at all the amenities this community has – the parks, the natural areas, the recreation facilities, the amazing healthcare, the educational institutions here in Fort Collins - it all adds up to overall well-being,” says Kim Newcomer, Communications Director with the City of Fort Collins.  “I think that’s something this community can be really proud of.”

Denver came in at number 36, with Colorado Springs and Greeley farther down the list at number 75 and 164 respectively.  Overall, the state of Colorado is ranked fifth in the nation for well-being – up from ninth last year.  Surveys are conducted by Gallup, and provide individual and composite scores in six main areas, including physical and emotional health, the work environment, and healthy behaviors including frequent exercise.

As the host of KUNC’s new program and podcast In the NoCo, I work closely with our producers and reporters to bring context and diverse perspectives to the important issues of the day. Northern Colorado is such a diverse and growing region, brimming with history, culture, music, education, civic engagement, and amazing outdoor recreation. I love finding the stories and voices that reflect what makes NoCo such an extraordinary place to live.