The researcher in me, has always been intrigued by psychographic, demographic, and geographic data. A while back I posted another entry (also from Forbes) on the fastest growing cities in the world. This study is on the stress levels among America’s busiest (and principal) cities. Check out the full Forbes article here.

Short list of the top 5 most stressful cities in the US:

1. Chicago, Illinois
2. New York, New York
3. Detroit, Michigan
4. Los Angeles, California
5. San Francisco, California

With the current financial crisis hitting Wall Street, America (and the world) this data may quickly be inaccurate or show some considerable increases. However, this is a great read to begin exploring what is the best place to live and work for you. Some find that a healthy and limited dose of stress is good to keep them active and productive. Others prefer peace and tranquility during and/or after work. Some of us are single, married, or with children. These and other factors are important in considering the best suitable place to live.

We have different needs and priorities depending on personality, family, work, and lifestyle. Nonetheless, “where” we live has a significant impact on our lives.

Excerpt: “CHICAGO, IL:  With 7.3% unemployment and a gallon of gas going for just under four bucks, the Windy City has some economic headwinds that result in a perfect storm for stress. Chi-town’s pollution problems (it ranked No. 7 in terms poor air quality) and lack of breathing room (it’s No. 2 in terms of population density) couple to create a Midwestern Molotov cocktail of stress.”