Louisiana Workers Log Longest Hours in U.S. Work Culture Study

A recent study has revealed that workers in Louisiana experience the longest work hours in the United States, according to a report published in November 2025 by the digital business-card provider Wave Connect. The research analyzed job commitment levels and burnout indicators across all 50 states, highlighting the intense work culture prevalent in certain regions.

Louisiana residents clock an average of 36.5 hours per week, marking the highest workweek in the nation. This demanding schedule leaves little time for personal activities or rest, positioning Louisiana as the state with the most overworked employees. Approximately 5% of the workforce in Louisiana holds multiple jobs, emphasizing the financial pressures faced by many.

Top States for Long Working Hours

The study indicates that several Southern states dominate the list of lengthy work hours. Following Louisiana, Arizona ranks second, with employees averaging 35.1 hours of work each week. This leaves just 84 hours available for personal life, slightly more than Louisiana but still below the national average. Arizona also reports a 5.4% multiple jobholder rate, reflecting a significant number of residents taking on additional work to meet their financial obligations.

Kentucky comes in third, where workers clock in at 35 hours per week. Notably, 36% of Kentucky’s workforce expresses a strong dedication to their jobs, despite the high levels of commitment required to maintain multiple jobs. Similar trends are observed in Alaska, where employees work an average of 34 hours weekly. In Alaska, 6.4% of residents hold more than one position, contributing to a higher incidence of burnout searches online.

Texas rounds out the top five most overworked states, with residents working nearly 36 hours each week. Despite this, about 35% of Texas employees report a high level of commitment to their jobs, while 4.4% of the workforce manages multiple jobs.

Understanding Work Culture and Financial Pressures

The findings reveal a concerning trend among Southern states, where lower wages often necessitate longer working hours. Many individuals in these regions are compelled to work additional jobs to cover basic living expenses, such as rent, food, and bills. This pattern not only reflects economic challenges but also highlights the potential for increased stress and burnout among the workforce.

The study utilized four key labor factors to assess each state: work-life balance scores, employee engagement rates, multiple jobholder rates, and monthly burnout treatment searches per 100,000 residents. Each state received an Employee Workaholism Score, where higher numbers indicate greater stress and over-commitment among workers.

The results paint a clear picture of the pressures faced by employees across the United States. In a climate where work-life balance is increasingly difficult to achieve, the implications of these findings warrant attention from policymakers, employers, and communities alike. Addressing the root causes of overwork may be essential in fostering healthier work environments and improving overall employee well-being.