A new study reveals the top five greediest states in the U.S., with Pennsylvania taking the top spot for residents’ willingness to take financial risks, keep gambling wins secret, and pursue big-money dreams. The survey, which included responses from over 3,000 participants, shows distinct regional differences in financial behaviors and ambitions.
Pennsylvania: The Nation’s Money-Hungry Leader
Pennsylvania ranks number one, driven by a high number of residents who frequently purchase lottery tickets and admit they would risk their last $10 for a chance at a big win. However, the notable percentage of people who said they would hide a significant gambling win from their partner sets Pennsylvania apart. This secrecy signals a deeper money-driven ambition. In short, Pennsylvania residents are willing to go to great lengths to fulfill their financial aspirations.
Delaware: Small State, Big Dreams
Delaware claims second place in the rankings, mainly because its residents tend to keep gambling wins private. Despite being geographically small, Delaware residents appear to harbor big-money dreams. While it may not have the same population as larger states, the willingness to conceal financial wins signals strong, secretive ambition.
South Dakota: A Surprising Entry in the Top Three
South Dakota ranks third in the survey, a surprising result given the state’s lower profile in financial discussions. Many residents were willing to bet their last $10, with a significant number admitting to bending or breaking casino rules. South Dakota is often overlooked, but the high number of risk-takers and rule-breakers shows that the state has an undercurrent of money-driven ambition.
California: A State of Secrecy and Rule-Bending
California, known for its tech billionaires and Hollywood stars, also made the top five. California ranked high for both secrecy and rule-breaking, with a notable percentage admitting to attempting to cheat in a casino. California residents’ secrecy and rule-bending behaviors reveal a competitive spirit tied to money.
Virginia: Rounding Out the Top Five
Virginia rounds out the top five states, with residents showing a strong willingness to gamble and pursue winnings. Virginia shares some similarities with South Dakota, where the risk-taking mentality is present but is not always in the spotlight.
Texas: The Least Money-Hungry State
On the other end of the scale, Texas is the least money-hungry state. Despite its large population and proximity to gambling hubs, Texas residents generally reported a lower willingness to engage in risky gambling behaviors or hide winnings. Texans seem to be less impulsive and more cautious in their financial behaviors.
Methodology Behind the Study
The survey was based on self-reported responses from over 3,000 participants across all 50 states. The participants were asked about five behaviors: buying lottery tickets regularly, hiding winnings from a partner, traveling to another state to gamble, breaking or bending casino rules, and being willing to bet their last $10. Each behavior was weighted based on its intensity; cheating in a casino, for example, carried more weight than purchasing a lottery ticket.
The final rankings reflect states where residents are most driven by the pursuit of money through risky or secretive means. They show that certain regions exhibit distinct financial behaviors driven by ambition, secrecy, and a desire for big wins.