A new report from WalletHub reveals the U.S. cities struggling the most with obesity and weight-related health problems — and the findings paint a troubling picture for public health across several Southern metro areas.
According to WalletHub’s 2026 ranking of the Most Overweight and Obese Cities in America, Little Rock ranked as the nation’s most overweight metro area, followed closely by McAllen, Memphis and Jackson.
The report compared 100 of the nation’s largest metro areas across 19 health and lifestyle metrics, including obesity rates, physical inactivity, access to healthy foods and projected obesity trends through 2050.
WalletHub analysts say the growing obesity crisis is contributing to nearly $200 billion in annual medical costs nationwide while increasing risks for diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure.
“Obesity is becoming more and more prevalent in the U.S., and it’s costing us big time,” said Chip Lupo. “In the most overweight and obese cities, residents often lack easy access to healthy food and recreation opportunities.”
The study found that McAllen had the nation’s highest percentage of obese adults and the highest share of physically inactive residents. Meanwhile, Memphis recorded the highest rate of diabetic adults among major metro areas.
Baton Rouge ranked highest for adults suffering from high blood pressure, while several cities across Louisiana, Alabama and South Carolina also appeared in the top 20.
WalletHub noted that Little Rock faces especially severe challenges. Nearly 23% of children between ages 10 and 17 are obese, according to the report, while another 18% are considered overweight. Analysts also pointed to limited healthy food access and a shortage of health educators as contributing factors.
Health experts say healthier lifestyles do not necessarily require expensive diets or premium grocery budgets. Andrew Burnstine recommends affordable strategies such as buying frozen fruits and vegetables, choosing plant-based proteins like beans and lentils and purchasing generic grocery brands.
Experts also emphasize that improving community infrastructure — including parks, recreation centers and grocery access — could play a major role in reducing obesity rates nationwide.
As obesity continues rising across the country, the report highlights growing concerns about long-term public health and the need for stronger investment in nutrition education and wellness resources.