Optimistic cities are filled with better neighbors, community members and friends. We’re packing our bags.

What is an optimist? A half-full type, a go-getter, a positive thinker. They usually live longer, especially women, and generally have a smash-up, good time of it. Optimists are magnetic and successful types who emanate a kind of luminous juju, to borrow from Danielle LaPorte’s Manifesto of Encouragement, a juju that is physically tenable and accessible.

Now, imagine looping all that optimistic energy into one centralized metropolis. Shazam! That was the sound of your personal happiness index shooting through the roof.

Such places really do exist, albeit changing from decade to decade or from one political tide to another. Here are 10 of today’s most optimistic American cities, sourced from Gallup’s Well-Being Index, which is based on life evaluation, emotional health, work environment, physical health, healthy behaviors, and access to basic necessities.

#1. Orem, Utah
According to Christian D. Larson’s Optimist Creed, an optimist is so strong that nothing can disturb her peace of mind.

#2. Austin, Texas
She also talks about health, happiness and prosperity with every person she meets.

#3. Huntsville, Alabama
She makes all her friends feel that there is something special in them.

#4. Mission, Texas
She looks at the sunny side of everything, everywhere.

#5. Raleigh, North Carolina
She thinks of, works for and expects only the best in life.

#6. Kennewick, Washington
She’s as enthusiastic about your success as she is her own.

#7. Amarillo, Texas
Ms. Optimist forgets the mistakes of the past and presses on to the greater achievements of the future.

#8. Lincoln, Nebraska
She wears a cheerful countenance and gives every living creature she meets a smile, dogs and cats included.

#9. Fort Collins, Colorado
She gives so much time to the improvement of herself that she doesn’t have the time to criticize others.

#10. Little Rock, Arkansas
She’s “too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.”

Are you an optimist? If so, tell us about the magnetic pull where you live.

Images: IraGelb; Cherice; Visualist Images; Thermodynamix; Shainelee; Jeanette Runyon; Scott Butner; Jacqueline Poggi; O’BrienDigital; Yann Ropars; clay.wells

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