5 Most Sleep Deprived Cities in the USA
Sleep deprivation is a growing concern in many American cities. According to recent data from Mattress Firm and SleepScore Labs (2026), several metropolitan areas stand out for their residents’ lack of quality rest. Below, we break down the top five most sleep deprived cities in the United States and the factors contributing to their sleeplessness.
1. New York City
Known as "the city that never sleeps," New York City lives up to its reputation. Despite most residents reporting 7-8 hours of sleep per night, their overall sleep quality is below the national average.
- High stress levels and long work hours
- Low levels of physical activity (ranking second lowest among major U.S. cities)
- Growing interest in group fitness and yoga, which may help improve sleep
New Yorkers also face health challenges linked to poor sleep, such as increased stress and higher rates of chronic conditions.
2. Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City, a hub for energy and aviation industries, also struggles with sleep deprivation. Contributing factors include:
- Irregular work hours due to energy sector jobs
- Below-average sleep scores among residents
- Access to health insurance and nutritious diets is higher than in some other cities on this list
- More residents participating in group fitness and strength training, which can improve sleep quality
Despite these efforts, sleep deprivation remains a significant issue.
3. Baltimore
Baltimore ranks high among cities where residents struggle to get enough rest:
- Nearly 40% of residents get less than the recommended amount of sleep
- Poor physical health and elevated stress levels are common
Other cities facing similar sleep challenges include:
- Nashville, TN – Residents report high stress and debt, disrupting sleep patterns
- Columbus, OH – Ranks high for sleep deprivation and mental health concerns
- Sacramento, CA – Many residents don’t get 7-8 hours of sleep, but regular group fitness and yoga classes help some improve rest
4. Norfolk
Norfolk, Virginia, home to Naval Station Norfolk and major maritime museums, also appears on the list due to:
- High rates of stress, obesity, and poor mental health
- One of the highest incidences of arthritis, which can disrupt sleep due to pain
- Better-than-average access to physicians and regular check-ups, which can help identify sleep disorders like snoring and sleep apnea
This underscores the link between physical, mental, and sleep health.
5. New Orleans
New Orleans residents are among the most sleep deprived in the country. Key statistics include:
- Only 40.8% of residents get the recommended seven hours of sleep per night
- High rates of smoking, obesity, and binge drinking
- Low levels of physical activity, with over a third of residents not engaging in any exercise
Compared to cities like Portland and Albuquerque, where over 41% of residents report uninterrupted sleep and strong participation in weekly fitness activities, New Orleans lags behind in sleep health.
Other Noteworthy Cities
- Corpus Christi, TX – Faces health challenges such as obesity, diabetes, and low access to dental care, which can signal sleep disorders like apnea.
- Philadelphia, PA – Highest snoring rates, frequent doctor visits, and high stress levels contribute to poor sleep.
- Anchorage, AK and Long Beach, CA – Over 41% of residents report getting a full night's rest.
- Portland, OR and Albuquerque, NM – Top rankings for sleep quality, with 72% sleep quality ratings and strong group fitness participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city in the USA is the most sleep deprived?
According to 2026 data from Mattress Firm and SleepScore Labs, New York City ranks as the most sleep deprived city in the United States, with residents reporting low sleep quality despite average sleep duration.
What are the main causes of sleep deprivation in major U.S. cities?
Common causes include high stress levels, irregular work hours, physical inactivity, chronic health conditions (such as obesity and arthritis), and lifestyle factors like smoking and poor diet.
How can residents in sleep deprived cities improve their sleep?
Improving sleep hygiene, participating in group fitness or yoga classes, reducing stress, and seeking regular medical and dental check-ups to identify potential sleep disorders can help improve sleep quality.
Are there cities in the U.S. with good sleep quality?
Yes, cities like Portland, OR and Albuquerque, NM report higher sleep quality ratings, with over 70% of residents experiencing restful sleep, often linked to higher rates of physical activity and healthier lifestyles.
