Jackson, Mississippi

In 2017, Jackson, Mississippi, ranked second in the nation for clinical obesity and was the fattest city. As a result, it has dropped significantly, ranking #7 this year.

But, Jackson has a long way to go. Over 50% of adults in the metropolitan area are obese, and over 25% of the population has diabetes. Additionally, local healthcare expenses have risen recently, mostly as a result of weight-related health issues. Greenways and other efforts to encourage citizens to lose weight are being designed by the city, but it may take some time before Jackson is successful in changing the tide against obesity.