Ever wondered if you’re the only one sneaking in a quick nap during lunch break? Or if your Sunday afternoon siesta is as universal as it feels?
In our latest study, we wanted to see which U.S. states are stealing those extra Z’s and which ones bravely (or foolishly?) power through.
Stay tuned for some pillow talk you won’t want to miss, as we navigate the ins and outs of American napping habits and preferences and uncover some fascinating slumber statistics you won’t find anywhere else!
Key Findings
- Americans say that a 55-minute nap is the optimal length in order to wake up feeling refreshed.
- Our study reveals napping on the clock isn’t as uncommon as you might think. Three in 20 (15%) respondents said they take naps on the clock.
- Over a third of respondents (34%) do not feel more rested after a nap.
- The older generations must require naps more, since over 70% of Gen Xers and Boomers feel more rested after a nap when just 57% and 58% of Gen Zers and millennials said the same, respectively.
The U.S. States That Nap the Most and Least
Reclining comfortably at the top of our napping leaderboard, Alabamians lead the nation averaging no less than four naps per week! Is it the sweltering summer heat, the relaxing scent of magnolias, or just an appreciation for the finer things in life? The jury’s still out on this one.
Meanwhile, Mainers, whose state motto is “Dirigo” (Latin for “I lead”), lead the U.S. in the pursuit of wakefulness. Averaging just shy of two naps per week, they might embrace the occasional restful indulgence, but it seems they prefer to keep their eyes wide open to the natural beauty of the Pine Tree State. Maine residents also reported the shortest nap times nationwide at 38 minutes on average. Floridians, on the other hand, savor every moment of shut-eye, averaging an impressive 69 minutes per nap, the longest nap times on average of any state in this study!
Next, we turn our attention to an unlikely trio — Pennsylvania, Nevada, and Massachusetts. The states are as diverse as they come, yet united over all other states in their love for a good couch nap. Is it the allure of a well-worn spot on a comfy cushion? Or maybe it’s the convenience of a post-binge-watch snooze? Whatever the reason, these states appreciate the classic living room catnap.
Finally, we arrive in Texas, where everything is indeed bigger, including their love for Monday siestas. While Texas stands alone in its appreciation for a Monday nap, we can’t help thinking they’re onto something (an antidote for the Monday blues?).
Analyzing Napping Habits & Preferences
Gen Zers, a generation born into the fast-paced world of technology, add more well-timed naps to their weekday routines than any other generation, debunking the myth that the younger you are, the less sleep you need.
In fact, more than 1 in 5 Gen Xers (a cool 22%) reported napping during the workday on the sly. Millennials are hot on their tail, with 18% admitting to a stealthy workday snooze. Before you judge, consider that a well-timed nap might be the key to managing the seemingly 24/7 demands of modern life.
A daring 70% of nappers forgo setting a wake-up alarm, suggesting either a level of trust in their internal rhythms or a fearless embrace of their need for rest (or both).
While the younger generations may lead the pack in terms of nap frequency, it’s their elders who reap the most benefits. More than 70% of Gen Xers and Boomers report feeling refreshed and ready to conquer the rest of their day after a nap. In contrast, only 57% and 58% of Gen Zers and millennials, respectively, report the same post-nap boost. Could it be that with age comes not only wisdom but the ability to make the most of a midday snooze?
Closing Thoughts
From the deep, restorative naps of Alabama to the brisk, concise dozes of Maine, our study points to a healthy variety of nap cultures nationwide.
At Shane Co., we recognize that moments of rest (like the cozy comfort and solidarity of a shared nap) are just as important as moments of activity when it comes to strengthening relationships. Much like our carefully crafted jewelry, these shared moments of tranquility are sparkling reminders of the good things in life.
If our deep dive into American napping habits resonates with you, we invite you to explore the Shane Co. blog for more unique studies and articles celebrating love, connection, and the unique experiences that bring us closer.
Methodology
In May of 2023, we surveyed 3,207 Americans to gather information on their napping tendencies and preferences state by state. Next, we crunched the numbers to calculate the average number of naps per year, time spent napping, and nap habits in every state. It’s worth noting that due to their lower populations, we did not receive enough responses from Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, and Wyoming to gain meaningful insights into their napping preferences.
