Yoga has become a way of life for many Americans, expanding well beyond its origins in India to become a popular practice that benefits both the body and mind. As more people come to appreciate yoga and practice it regularly, more yoga studios thrive in every state. The best states for yoga are those with ample opportunities for yoga lovers. To determine which states love yoga the most, we looked at the number of yoga studios per capita, the number of yoga instructors, and the level of search interest people have when it comes to all things yoga.

Here are our findings:

• New York, California, and Colorado are the top three states for yoga lovers in the U.S.: New York has the highest search interest (76) and an impressive number of studios; California leads in the number of yoga teachers (5,514); Colorado has as many studios per capita as New York (2 per 100,000 people) and rivals California in search interest (62 versus CA's 61).
• Miami, Washington D.C., and San Francisco have the highest number of yoga studios per capita: For every 100,000 people, Miami has 20 studios, Washington, D.C. has 18, and San Francisco has 16.
• Indiana, Wyoming, and Alabama are the top states for yoga instructors: These three states rank in the top 20 for affordability and yoga instructors earn salaries of over $67,000 per year.
• New York, Oregon, and Colorado residents are the most interested in yoga in the U.S.: New York's search interest is 76, Oregon's is 73, and Colorado's is 62.

The 10 U.S. States That Love Yoga the Most.

Yoga is an incredibly versatile activity because nearly anywhere you are, you can do your daily sun salutations and get into your flow. If you want a community experience and want to learn more poses — and how to do them correctly — yoga studios are a great option for your practice. The following states excel when it comes to the community aspect of yoga — that is, the number of studios, teachers, and people who are engaging in this amazingly healthy practice.

1. New York

New York isn't just a major cultural hub — it's also a major yoga hub, which is why it's ranked first on our list. The entire state, but particularly New York City, has a vibrant yoga culture, offering everything from traditional practices to innovative styles like rooftop and aerial yoga. The city's diversity and dynamic cultural scene make it a great place for yoga events, workshops, and teacher training programs.

Additionally, New York has the highest search interest in yoga of any state, indicating strong enthusiasm for this practice. As a final note, New York ranks number five in U.S. News & World Report's list of the states with the healthiest populations. It's not hard to imagine that the popularity of yoga plays a role in keeping the state healthy.

• Yoga studios per capita: 2 per 100,000 people
• Yoga teachers: 3,160
• Search interest: High (76)

2. California

California's yoga scene is thriving, which is why it secured the second spot on our list. Cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco have many studios with diverse yoga offerings, from traditional Hatha to cutting-edge hybrid styles. To put it in perspective, the state has 526 yoga studios and LA and SF are home to 63% of those studios.

Overall, it's also a great state for those who are seeking to learn. California has the highest number of registered yoga teachers of any state, so there are plenty of instructors to guide the Golden State's many students. Further, CA's sunny climate provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor yoga, especially in the southern half of the state.

• Yoga studios per capita: 1 per 100,000 people
• Yoga teachers: 5,514
• Search interest: Medium-high (61)

3. Colorado

Known for its enthusiasm for outdoor activities, Colorado ranks highly for yoga popularity. The Centennial State has a large number of yoga studios per capita, particularly in cities like Denver, which has 11 studios for every 100,000 people.

According to the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade, “We embrace a holistic approach to wellness, and the nation's wellness transformation starts here.” Colorado's interest in holistic health practices is reflected in its strong search interest for yoga topics. This high level of interest translates into a passion that makes it a top location for both residents and visitors looking to engage in yoga and wellness activities. Alongside its strong showing as the ninth healthiest state in the U.S., Colorado ranks number two when it comes to the healthiest states for older adults.

• Yoga studios per capita: 2 per 100,000 people
• Yoga teachers: 1,695
• Search interest: Medium-high (62)

4. Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a key state for yoga enthusiasts on the East Coast, thanks to its numerous studios per capita and high number of instructors. The presence of renowned centers like the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Stockbridge adds to its appeal.

The Bay State ranks number one in U.S. News and World Report's list of the healthiest states, and for good reason. The state gets high scores on a number of wellness and fitness factors, including purposeful well-being, physical fitness, social health, and community. Simply put, Massachusetts prioritize wellness, and yoga is a big part of that focus. Plus, yoga is a perfect exercise option for a state where winters can be pretty cold, and the studio is a perfect place to warm up. This is especially true if you can find a studio that offers hot yoga classes — such as Bikram yoga, where the room is heated to 105 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Yoga studios per capita: 2 per 100,000 people
• Yoga teachers: 1,593
• Search interest: Medium (59)

5. Florida

Florida is a key player in the U.S. yoga scene, particularly due to its warm climate and beautiful beach locations, which are perfect for outdoor yoga sessions. The Sunshine State is second only to California in its number of registered yoga teachers, and it's home to the city with the highest number of yoga studios per capita, Miami.

From the myriad entertainment options to the hustle and bustle of a big city like Miami and the charged political atmosphere, Florida has a lot going on. So, it's no wonder that many Floridians choose yoga as a way to unwind. Plus, since Florida is a famous place to retire and live out your golden years in the sun, older residents benefit from the improvements in balance and circulation that yoga can bring.

• Yoga studios per capita: 1 per 100,000 people
• Yoga teachers: 3,585
• Search interest: Medium (50)

6. New Jersey

New Jersey is the most population-dense state in the country, and it's full of yoga lovers. The Garden State ranks as the second healthiest state in the nation and has an impressive number of yoga studios per capita for its 9.2 million residents. If you think about it, it's amazing that New Jersey is so stocked with studios. Yoga enthusiasts could attend classes in destinations like Philadelphia and the yoga capital of the U.S., New York City. But they can also remain in-state and make New Jersey a vibrant yoga hub in its own right.

Given that yoga has myriad therapeutic benefits, it should come as no surprise that New Jersey ranks number one in the nation when it comes to low rates of mental illness. The Garden State's fitness culture also sees it ranking as an incredibly healthy state overall. Wintery months and hectic traffic are likely to be part of the equation that drives residents indoors to do yoga and focus on their health.

• Yoga studios per capita: 2 per 100,000 people
• Yoga teachers: 1,603
• Search interest: Medium (45)

7. Virginia

Virginia is a haven for yoga practitioners in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains state. Not only can they enjoy the warmth of a dedicated community that thrives with yoga retreats and spirituality, but they can also enjoy a class at one of the state's 91 registered yoga studios. Studios across the state have a diverse array of offerings — featuring classes that range from hot yoga to a combination of yoga and Pilates — to appeal to all yoga enthusiasts.

Perhaps nothing encapsulates Virginia's yoga culture more than Satchidananda Ashram-Yogaville. Located in the heartland along the James River near Buckingham, Yogaville is a destination for retreats, classes, and community togetherness. There are multi-level Hatha classes, a daily noontime meditation, vegetarian meals, and the interfaith LOTUS Shrine. Plus, the surrounding area has plenty of trails and the river's naturally serene beauty to complement the practice.

• Yoga studios per capita: 1 per 100,000 people
• Yoga teachers: 1,751
• Search interest: Medium (58)

8. North Carolina

North Carolina is a prime location for yoga practitioners in the South. In addition to its high number of yoga studios and strong search interest, the Old North State has over 2,000 registered yoga teachers, ensuring residents and visitors alike have plenty of instructors available to guide their practices.

Sometimes, things just come together and culminate in what we see in North Carolina's yoga culture. The state is known for good old Southern hospitality. It's also known for its natural, rugged beauty, with picturesque places like the Great Smoky Mountains State Park and Cape Hatteras National Seashore. You can do a mountain-top retreat at The Art of Living Retreat Center, where Ayurveda wellness awaits, or Namaste in Nature, which combines hiking with yoga and meditation.

• Yoga studios per capita: 1 per 100,000 people
• Yoga teachers: 2,147
• Search interest: Medium (49)

9. Oregon

Oregon is home to a vibrant wellness culture and is among the states most interested in yoga — second only to New York. Particularly in cities like Portland, the state's interest in sustainability and holistic health aligns well with the yoga lifestyle. Like many of the other states on this list, Oregon is iconic for its natural beauty, with the coast and the deep green coniferous forests offering ample opportunities to bask in transcendent beauty as you do yoga. And make no mistake — Greater Portland is a wellness mecca that was rated the number one city for yoga by Healthline in 2020 as well as the healthiest place to live by WalletHub that same year.

• Yoga studios per capita: 1 per 100,000 people
• Yoga teachers: 763
• Search interest: High (73)

10. Washington

Washington has a well-established yoga community, with a high concentration of yoga studios in cities like Seattle. The state's health-conscious population and scenic landscapes make it a popular location for yoga retreats and outdoor yoga sessions. Seattle alone has 10 yoga studios per capita.

At studios like The Grinning Yogi, Pranify, and Mind Body Hum, you can do Vinyasa or hot yoga, or simply sit for some guided meditation before getting into your flow. According to Becker's Hospital Review, The Evergreen State is the seventh healthiest state for older adults based on factors like the environment, the social milieu, and behaviors. The availability of first-rate yoga studios goes a long way toward helping Washingtonians live their best lives.

• Yoga studios per capita: 1 per 100,000 people
• Yoga teachers: 1,374
• search interest: Medium (56)

Which Cities Have the Most Yoga Studios?

Yoga has become an incredibly popular way to exercise in the United States, with certain states and cities boasting a particularly high number of yoga studios per capita. These cities are often hubs for wellness, attracting individuals who prioritize fitness, mindfulness, and a balanced lifestyle.

Below is an overview of states known for having cities with the most yoga studios per capita, along with top studio recommendations for each city based on user reviews from platforms like Yelp and ClassPass as well as recommendations from city-specific websites.

1. Miami, Florida

Known for its unique and vibrant culture, Miami celebrates diversity. Here, you'll find influences from Hispanic, Caribbean, and Haitian cultures, among a great many others. You can adventure on Jungle Island and see exotic animals or stroll through Little Havana and taste authentic Cuban cuisine.

There's a lot to do here, and Miami also has one of the highest concentrations of yoga studios in the entire country. With beautiful beaches and a high number of tourists, Miami is a popular destination for outdoor yoga and yoga retreats. Miami has 87 yoga studios serving its 442,000 residents, giving it an amazing 20 yoga studios per 100,000 people.

Top Yoga Studios in Miami:

• Mimi Yoga: Renowned studio founded by certified yoga teacher Mimi Ghandour. At warm and welcoming locations in Wynwood and Coconut Grove, Mimi offers a wide variety of classes, including Vinyasa, restorative, power, and Yogilates.
• Wynwood Yoga Studio: A hot yoga studio that offers a variety of workshops and yoga teacher certification programs. Wynwood's Hot Power yoga sessions take place in high-humidity rooms at temperatures from 95 to 100 degrees. The studio cares deeply about community and teachers offer hands-on assistance to all who need it.
• Hanu: A recently expanded yoga studio offering a variety of heated and unheated yoga classes, mixed movement classes, and more. You can do private or group classes and there are options available at all times of day. Plus, there's a private cold plunge room where you can chill out after a hot session.

2. Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is a hub for yoga enthusiasts. By several metrics, this is the hardest working city in America, and yoga offers many residents an opportunity to relax and take a break from their fast-paced lives and demanding jobs. The city is jam-packed with museums and historical landmarks, and many people here are knowledgeable go-getters who love good restaurants, bars, and art.

The city's vibrant yoga scene includes numerous studios offering a variety of classes designed for different preferences and experience levels. With 126 yoga studios serving its 689,000 residents, Washington D.C. boasts about 18 yoga studios per 100,000 people.

• Flow Yoga Center: A D.C. favorite for its warm environment and variety of classes, Flow Yoga Center was voted best in the city for yoga and mindfulness classes. The studio specializes in helping students find balance in their lives. The mindfulness classes complement yoga class options that range from restorative to full-blown workouts.
• Mimi Rieger Yoga: Emphasizes community and also offers streaming as well as private classes. This studio, located downtown in the heart of D.C., was founded by internationally renowned yoga teacher Mimi Rieger, who is versed in a wide variety of yoga types. Ms. Rieger is all about the joy, love, and celebration of life through yoga, and it shows.
• Yoga District: A nonprofit studio focused on making yoga accessible to everyone. Yoga District offers in-studio, online, and outdoor classes in parks throughout D.C. Plus, part of your donation goes toward supporting the organization's yoga outreach programs for people who need them.

3. San Francisco, California

San Francisco, which is known for its arts scene, literary history, architecture, and famous sourdough bread, is also a hot spot for yoga enthusiasts. The city has a population of about 873,000 residents. With 139 yoga studios catering to various styles and practices, San Francisco boasts approximately 16 studios per 100,000 residents.

This high density of studios reflects the city's commitment to health and mindfulness, as well as its role as a pioneer in the wellness movement. The walkability here is a big plus, and you can take one of the famous cable cars to your favorite part of the city, whether that's the Haight or the Fillmore District, where there's sure to be a yoga spot nearby.

Top Yoga Studios in San Francisco

• Yoga Flow SF: Features everything from yin yoga to prenatal yoga to hot vinyasa classes. With three locations to choose from, the staff and facilities provide a welcoming atmosphere for yoga practitioners at all levels.
• Folk: Offering classes, workshops, and events for students of all ages and experience levels in four locations throughout San Francisco. Folk prioritizes community and all studios are locally owned, making for a warm and inviting experience.
• Lotusland: Known for inclusivity, the studio offers a variety of yoga and meditation classes, including Kundalini, Hatha, and Vinyasa. Lotusland's focus is on intimacy, personal connection, healing, and transformation. To that end, the fee structure is sliding scale and donation based. All the special touches are here — mystical music, gorgeous murals on the walls, and a staff that really cares.

4. Denver, Colorado

Known for its active residents and stunning natural scenery, Denver is an ideal setting for yoga and a popular destination for yoga practitioners. The social culture here is about balance and open-mindedness. The hustle and bustle of a big city where mindful people simultaneously slow down and honor nature, the land's Native American heritage, diversity, and innovative self-expression through art.

With a population of about 715,000 and 80 yoga studios, Denver is home to about 11 yoga studios per 100,000 residents. Many yoga studios in Denver host outdoor classes, such as the Vinyasa classes at the Denver Botanic Gardens, allowing participants to connect with Colorado's natural beauty while practicing.

Top Yoga Studios in Denver

• Samadhi Yoga Sangha: Top-rated studio in uptown Denver offering Vinyasa, Yin, restorative yoga, sound baths, and so much more. Samadhi has been around since 2001 and reopened under new ownership in 2021. The studio helps students truly find balance by including passive Yoga Nidra practices alongside the active Vinyasa most students are used to.
• The River Yoga: Focuses on mindful practices and community connection. This studio acts as a “third space,” a place of belonging, togetherness, and rejuvenation. Practitioners of all levels and abilities can come here to celebrate life and engage with each other and their breath through the act of yoga.
• One Yoga: Located in the Lion's Den at Greenwood Village and led by Colorado yogis Karey and Matt Goebel. One Yoga features hot power yoga, restorative yoga, and traditional Hatha yoga. The studio also hosts meditation classes, live music performances, gong events, workshops, and retreats, as well as private and corporate offerings.

5. Seattle, Washington

Known for its rainy weather and residents who prioritize fitness, Seattle is a hub for yoga enthusiasts and professionals alike. With a population of about 737,000 people and 72 yoga studios, Seattle offers approximately 10 yoga studios per 100,000 residents, indicating a strong interest in health and wellness activities.

The natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest complements the practice of yoga and helps make the experience more positive. Moreover, the city values its parks, art, festivals, music, nutritious food — the list could go on. Perhaps as a way to rise above the gray days, Seattleites make a concerted effort to engage in all kinds of healthy activities, underpinned by a focus on positivity. This is exemplified by the Emerald City's superb yoga studios.

Top Yoga Studios in Seattle

• Be Luminous Yoga: Known for its bright, spacious studio and variety of classes. Alongside fellow students with smiling faces, you can engage to your fullest in Yin, Vinyasa, restorative, power, and meditation classes that encourage growth. Be Luminous Yoga emphasizes that yoga is for everyone, and you'll feel this emphasis the minute you walk through the door.
• 8 Limbs Yoga Centers: Offers inclusive classes for all levels, including flow, dynamic flow, and yoga/pilates. This studio collective is rooted in ashtanga, a yoga sutra with eight principles: self-restraint, observances, posture and movement, breath control, withdrawal of the senses, intense focus, contemplation, as well as oneness and bliss. This ethos empowers you to find harmony, contentment, and enlightenment through yoga.
• The Grinning Yogi: A community-centered studio with a focus on happiness and well-being. At locations in Capitol Hill and Greenwood, as you embrace The Grinning Yogi's emphasis on self-compassion and self-care, you'll find a smile on your face that stays with you outside of the studio. The instructor team includes an Olympian, professional dancers, and self-care experts.

6. Los Angeles, California

In many ways, Los Angeles is the center of West Coast culture. The City of Angels is a huge destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the magic of Hollywood and the essence of California, a place of boundless opportunity. Whether you're looking for athletic excellence, innovation, or world-class entertainment and food, LA has it all.

It's no wonder, then, that many LA residents seek to stay grounded through yoga and self-care. LA has an impressive number of studios relative to its population. The city features approximately 192 yoga centers serving its 3.8 million residents, which translates to about 5 studios per 100,000 people. This high density highlights the city's commitment to wellness and its broad yoga offerings.

Top Yoga Studios in Los Angeles

• Golden Bridge Yoga: Famous for its Kundalini yoga classes. Golden Bridge was founded by Gurmukh, who started off teaching in her home in 1992. She learned Kundalini from the famed guru Yogi Bhajan. At this studio, you can learn every aspect of Kundalini, an ancient healing practice that can help you find your inner wellspring of energy and peace.
• Astro Gong Yoga: Unique space offering sound healing alongside yoga classes. Astro Gong brings an astrology influence to its focus. In the sound healing room, you'll find 36 gongs, which teachers use for sound baths and healing rituals. Yoga offerings include Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin, and Kundalini, while the communal area includes a lounge decorated with pieces from local artists.
• Hot 8 Yoga: Offers hot yoga sessions in multiple eco-friendly studios. Hot 8's many locations provide yoga barre, sculpt, power, hot power fusion, Yin, and 26 & 2 classes. The latter is a sequence of 26 poses and two breathing exercises, while hot power fusion helps you detoxify, find mindfulness, and strengthen your core.

7. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is famously known as the Windy City, where you can find a legendary jazz music scene, a city focused on spontaneity, inspiration, and the invaluable importance of diversity. From the gorgeous Millennium Park with its vivid Lurie Garden, sculptures, and architecture, to the Chicago Cultural Center with its events free to the public, there's a lot to love here — including the city's yoga centers.

Chicago has a variety of opportunities for yoga practitioners. Home to 2.7 million people and 127 yoga studios, the city offers an impressive 5 yoga studios per 100,000 residents. Yoga studios in Chicago offer a wide range of class styles that cater to different preferences and experience levels.

Top Yoga Studios in Chicago

• Zen Yoga Garage: Spacious studio in Bucktown focused on modern yoga and offering unique wellness experiences. Aside from its many yoga classes, including Vinyasa, prenatal, and “BYOBaby” yoga, Zen Yoga Garage also has Zen Barre classes. Two of the studio spaces have garage doors to let in fresh air and there's a fireplace in the lobby for those blustery winter days.
• Moksha Yoga Center: Focuses on sharing yoga with others in a serene environment. Moksha offers retreats and events such as the Vinyasa Journey with Bandhas & Mudras, a workshop that promises to deepen your connection to the art of Vinyasa. You can even partake in teacher training in India through the Moksha Yoga Center.
• Bloom Yoga Studio: A community-focused studio with a warm, welcoming environment. Founded by husband and wife team Kerry and Zach Maiorca in 2004 and located at Lincoln Square, Bloom has a down-to-earth ethos that emphasizes the essence of yoga — posture and breathwork. Through this simplicity, you gain clarity as you focus on your flow in the present moment.

8. Portland, Oregon

Portland is known for its progressive culture, bike-friendly streets, and health-conscious community. Local restaurants do incredible things with local produce from the Willamette Valley. Musicians, artists, and entrepreneurs love to call this their home. What's more, it's a great place for those who make the practice of yoga a part of their daily lives.

Portland offers an impressive amount of opportunities for yoga enthusiasts. With a population of about 652,000 and 29 yoga studios, Portland contains approximately 4 yoga studios per 100,000 people. This density reflects Portland's commitment to wellness and sustainability, as many studios emphasize eco-friendly practices and community involvement.

Top Yoga Studios in Portland

• YoYoYogi: A vibrant studio known for its energetic classes and drive to make yoga accessible to anyone who wants to practice. Located in the Pearl District, YoYoYogi has over 300 options for classes, whether it's hot, restorative, or just flat-out “soul-shakin' yoga” that helps you find peace and your inner core.
• The People's Yoga: Community-oriented studio with a focus on inclusivity and ensuring there are no economic barriers to practitioners. With locations on Hawthorn Ave. (southeast) and Killingsworth St. (northeast), The People's Yoga wants to break down the dogma and meet people where they are, providing Vinyasa and Hatha classes, as well as strength and mobility classes. Scholarships are available for those in need.
• Love Hive Yoga: Offers classes that emphasize compassion and connection. Love Hive has Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin, restorative, gentle, and prenatal yoga classes, as well as retreats and workshops. A Yelp reviewer raved, “This is home for me! The owners Audra and Jessica are so complementary to one another. They both are authentic and really believe in what they're teaching on and off the mat.”

9. Austin, Texas

Austin, the fourth-largest city in Texas by population, has a thriving live music scene, Tex-Mex to rival the best in the Southwest, and great outdoor recreation sites like Lady Bird Lake and the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. It's also home to one of the state's most active yoga scenes. With about 961,000 residents and 40 yoga studios, Austin contains about 4 yoga studios per 100,000 people.

The city's diverse culture and booming wellness industry, combined with a recent influx of migration from places like California have contributed to the increasing popularity of yoga in Austin. Many yoga enthusiasts have relocated to the area, and more long-time residents incorporate yoga into their daily routines.

• Practice Yoga Austin: Known for its donation-based classes and diverse offerings, Practice Yoga is community-centered. Teachers include Adriene Mishler, whose Yoga With Adriene YouTube channel became a sensation during the pandemic, with over 12 million subscribers. Besides mindfulness, alignment, Yin, and Vinyasa classes, you can take part in many workshops and events.
• Black Swan Yoga: Also donation-based, the studio offers heated yoga classes with a focus on accessibility. The studio operates at 90 degrees. Black Swan values transparency, community, love, yoga, accountability, education, and a student focus.
• YTX Yoga: A studio that prioritizes community through weekly free classes, scholarships, and an annual outdoor yoga event. YTX also excels with its amenities, which include a lavender-soaked towel brought to your mat after class, showers, locker rooms with organic body wash products, and an in-house cafe that offers the oh-so-essential smoothies and avocado toast.

10. New York City, New York

With 267 yoga studios serving its 8.8 million residents, New York City boasts an impressive 3 yoga studios per 100,000 people. New York City's vibrant yoga culture reflects its diverse, large population and wellness-oriented lifestyle, making it a prime location for both residents and visitors seeking varied yoga experiences. This rich array of options highlights New York City's role as a key player in the national yoga landscape.

• Yoga Shanti: Known for its serene atmosphere and experienced instructors. Founded by the world-renowned teacher, Colleen Saidman Yee, Yoga Shanti is both a studio and a method that combines the Iyengar and Ashtanga yoga traditions. At the same time, this studio offers classes that seek to stay current with the modern needs of its students.
• Iyengar Yoga Institute: Offers classes steeped in the Iyengar tradition. Iyengar Yoga is rooted in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. Certified teachers provide individual corrections and adjustments, focusing on precise language and encouragement to help students improve strength, stamina, and flexibility, even as they develop a meditative mindset.
• Humming Puppy: Combines sonic resonance with yoga. The Hum, according to the studio's website, is a soundscape that Humming Puppy designed. It's set at the Schumann frequency, which mimics the earth's vibration. Classes feature optional chanting and the yoga style they teach is unique to the studio, blending multiple styles with a focus on breathing (Pranayama), intention, and meditation.

The Top 10 Best States for Professional Yoga Instructors.

Looking at salary information, along with cost of living (COL) rankings, can provide insight into how desirable and lucrative it is to work as a yoga instructor in a particular state. The national average salary for yoga instructors is $69,965 per year, though some states offer much higher salaries in addition to a low cost of living. The cost of living is rated on a scale of 1 to 50, where 1 represents the lowest cost and 50 is the highest.

The 10 states with both the lowest cost of living and most competitive pay for yoga instructors are:

1. Indiana

The Hoosier State has great economic conditions for those who are seeking to open their own studio or take on a yoga teacher role at an established studio. It has the ninth lowest cost of living and instructors can earn a generous $70,995 per year teaching yoga.

Further, the state invested $487 million in community development in 2023, which grew to $12.6 billion through additional public, private, and nonprofit investments. Forbes ranked Indiana as the number one state to start a business in 2023. For a state where business is booming, the cost of living is low, meaning yoga instructors can live comfortably on a competitive salary.

2. Wyoming

Economically speaking, Wyoming is an interesting case and a fortuitous place for yoga teachers. It offers the 17th lowest cost of living in the entire country. Beyond that, the state's average salary sits at $60,610 per year while we discovered that yoga instructors earn $72,497 — about $12,000 more. This could be because it's a small state in terms of population and there aren't a ton of instructors to fill the demand for this role. Therefore, if you're certified and ready to help people practice, you're likely to earn a great salary that will go a long way in the Equality State.

3. Alabama

Amazingly, in Alabama, you can become a yoga instructor, spend 38% less than the national average on housing, and earn a wage that will see you living comfortably all around. Like Wyoming, the Yellowhammer State boasts a low cost of living — the 4th lowest in the nation — and yoga instructors are highly valued for their services, earning an average of $67,625 annually. You can fill an important niche as a yoga teacher in Alabama, and there's even the opportunity to live affordably on the coast, where you could lead outdoor sessions for people who want to connect with their inner yogi.

4. North Dakota

U.S. News & World Report has North Dakota ranking sixth in the nation when it comes to opportunity. It's also ranked 14th for its cost of living. This means yoga instructors have a great opportunity to teach in a state where the cost of living is relatively low, where they can earn $70,979 annually, and where recreation is a big part of the picture for many North Dakotans. The state's Office of the Governor reports that it led the nation in earnings in 2023, and there's a “laser focus on innovation.” As a yoga teacher, you can provide a restorative service to the people striving to innovate in the Peace Garden State and earn a good salary doing so.

5. Wisconsin

Dairy and beer aren't the only industries you can get into in Wisconsin. You can also make a good living teaching yoga to Wisconsinites who place a premium on recreation. Motorcycling, ATVs, boating, and fishing are big business here, but people can't always do them year-round due to cold winters. The state is ranked 20th for cost of living, but there's still demand for indoor recreation opportunities such as yoga, especially in a big city like Milwaukee. That could be a big reason why yoga instructors are able to make an average of $71,880 per year in the Badger State.

6. Pennsylvania

Although Pennsylvania sits square in the middle of the cost-of-living rankings at number 25, the average salary for yoga instructors of $76,102 annually is enough to make up for it. There are over one million small businesses in PA and it's the sixth largest economy in the U.S., meaning there are plenty of opportunities here for yoga teachers. This populous East Coast state has a lot of things yogis can enjoy, such as quality schools and gorgeous natural scenery. Longwood Gardens is particularly appealing, with its 40 indoor and outdoor gardens influenced by Italian, French, and English traditions.

7. Iowa

In Iowa, yoga teachers will find most of their opportunities in the capital city of Des Moines, which works hard to encourage economic development. But there's still plenty of room to branch out to smaller communities in this heartland state. It was rated the number one state for opportunity in 2021. That same year, CNBC reported that the Hawkeye State has one of the lowest costs of running a business. This is important for yoga studios that need to keep overhead low. Ultimately, Iowa's surprisingly low cost of living — 8th in the U.S. — mixed with competitive earnings — $65,074 per year, on average — makes this a great spot to teach yoga.

8. Mississippi

This Southern state consistently ranks highly as one of the most affordable places to live, with the 5th lowest cost of living in the country. And, perhaps surprisingly, the average yoga instructor can earn $63,972 each year — notably more than Mississippi's average salary, which ZipRecruiter reports is around $47,500 a year. Yogis can find a lot to enjoy in the beach towns along the Gulf Coast, where a laid-back pace translates perfectly to a yoga way of life.

9. South Dakota

The Mount Rushmore State is near the top for personal income growth and also has an impressively low unemployment rate in recent years. The thriving economy is reflected in yoga teacher's salaries here, an average of $67,082 annually, and also indicates that people may have more expendable income for services such as yoga instruction. Moreover, South Dakota has the 13th lowest cost of living in the country, which helps yoga instructors have some expendable income of their own. They can use it to visit the state's many natural attractions, such as Mount Rushmore and the Badlands.

10. New Mexico

New Mexico holds a special place in the nation for its scenic grandeur. About a third of the state is federally protected parkland and historic sites, such as Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands National Park. If you're a yoga teacher, the profusion of great outdoor sites pairs perfectly with the fact that you can earn a great salary of $69,096 per year. Given that the average salary in New Mexico is just over $62,000, yoga instructors are well-placed in the economic milieu. It doesn't hurt that New Mexico is ranked 19th for cost of living, either.

The 10 U.S. States Most Interested in Yoga.

Yoga's popularity has surged in recent years, which is reflected in many ways, including Google searches. To determine which states are most interested in yoga, we used Google Trends data from the last 12 months — known as search interest — about key yoga terms that people are searching for. Search interest indicates how popular a certain topic is when compared to all other topics in that area and timeframe. It's ranked on a scale of 0 to 100, so larger numbers indicate higher levels of search interest for a specific term.

Here are the top 10 states most intrigued by this ancient wellness practice, as evidenced by the terms people are using to search for information about yoga:

How Do All 50 States Measure Up?

1. New York

New York's bustling yoga scene is evident in its high overall search interest of 76. New Yorkers, known for their pursuit of health and fitness, often integrate yoga into their urban lifestyle.

• yoga: High (73);
• yoga class near me: Very high (100);
• buy yoga mat: Medium (50);
• learn yoga: High (80).

2. Oregon

Oregon's dedication to health and fitness is mirrored in its significant search interest of 73 for yoga-related terms. The state accommodates a great many yoga classes and wellness events.

• yoga: Medium-high (65);
• yoga class near me: Medium-high (66);
• buy yoga mat: Very high (100);
• learn yoga: Medium-high (60).

3. Colorado

Colorado's vibrant wellness culture and affinity for outdoor activities are mirrored in its high search interest — an average of 62 across all terms — for yoga. In turn, the state has a high number of studios that cater to both urban and rural communities. The plethora of studios provides ample opportunities for practitioners to enjoy a comprehensive wellness experience.

• yoga: High (79);
• yoga class near me: Medium-low (38);
• buy yoga mat: Medium (50);
• learn yoga: High (80).

4. California

With a search interest of 61, California has worked to provide ample opportunity to support yoga practitioners of all experience levels. California's dedication to health and wellness is only further highlighted by the numbers reflected in the search trends.

• yoga: Medium-high (63);
• yoga class near me: Medium (50);
• buy yoga mat: Medium (50);
• learn yoga: High (80).

5. Massachusetts

Massachusetts demonstrates a strong interest in yoga, consistently ranking high in searches and showing an overall search interest of 59. Massachusetts residents value education and personal growth, extending to their wellness routines.

• yoga: High (76);
• yoga class near me: Medium-high (61);
• buy yoga mat: No data available;
• learn yoga: Very high (100).

6. Virginia

In Virginia, the growing yoga interest is evident in its search interest of 58 and is supported by an active wellness community. Local studios and yoga classes are in high demand.

• yoga: Medium (51);
• yoga class near me: Medium-high (72);
• buy yoga mat: Medium (50);
• learn yoga: Medium-high (60).

7. Washington

Washington is not just a beautiful state but also a hot spot for yoga, with high interest reflected in the search data. The state clocks a score of 56 for search interest overall.

• yoga: Medium-high (61);
• yoga class near me: Medium-low (33);
• buy yoga mat: Medium (50);
• learn yoga: High (80).

8. Missouri

Missouri regularly experiences temperatures at or below freezing during the winter months, so an indoor option like yoga studios and classes can hold obvious appeal. With an average search interest of 54, Missouri demonstrates a clear dedication to maintaining health and wellness year-round.

• yoga: Medium (43);
• yoga class near me: Medium-low (33);
• buy yoga mat: Very high (100);
• learn yoga: Medium (40).

9. Florida

Residents of the Sunshine State are clearly interested in learning more about yoga so they can take advantage of the many studios and outdoor opportunities for yoga bliss. Florida's focus on wellness and balance is reflected in its fairly high search interest of 50.

• yoga: Medium (51);
• yoga class near me: Medium-low (38);
• buy yoga mat: Medium (50);
• learn yoga: Medium (40).

10. North Carolina

North Carolina's growing interest in yoga is reflected in the search data — the state's search interest is 49 on average. The state's commitment to wellness is apparent, with a rising number of yoga practitioners.

• yoga: Medium (49);
• yoga class near me: Medium-low (38);
• buy yoga mat: Very high (100);
• learn yoga: Medium (40).

Finding Your Zen: Activities That Flow Well with Yoga.

Yoga can be incorporated into any lifestyle. Whether you're searching for a workout that strengthens your core or a contemplative self-care practice, there are flows for every mode. Further, the peace, restoration, and mindfulness you're cultivating don't have to stop at the mat. Certain activities are perfect extensions of yoga's core essence.

Soaking

It's no coincidence that hot tub yoga enhances the benefits of yoga by maximizing relaxation and coaxing out deeper stretches. Like yoga, soaking in hot water does wonders for the body and soul. A study from the International Journal of Environmental and Public Health found that thermal hydrotherapy reduces stress and encourages mental relaxation. Water immersion therapy improves blood flow and your ability to exercise. It can also reduce pain.

There are many ways to augment your yoga practice with the benefits of soaking in hot water. You can soak before or after your yoga routine — doing so beforehand will loosen you up and improve your ability to do stretches, as noted by the aforementioned study. Soaking afterward will enhance your relaxation. Try adding calming music, aromatherapy, and jets that massage your muscles. The study found that these things, in tandem with hydrotherapy, increase the body's healing capacity.

You can also take things up a notch by soaking in a hot tub equipped with the FreshWater Salt System. This all-natural, water sanitizing system uses salt to generate chlorine, meaning you're using fewer chemicals while enjoying more natural feeling water that is softer on your eyes and skin, while being easier to maintain. This isn't your only option, though. There are hot tubs to fit your budget and your yoga practice, whether you're a beginner or an advanced practitioner. You can also learn more about hot tubs and how they fit into your health and wellness routine.

Gardening and Eating Well

Gardening is much like the practice of yoga. Both activities involve cultivating focus and enhancing well-being. But as you concentrate on the plants and what they need — a balance of water, healthy soil, and sunshine — you find balance by stepping outside of yourself and caring for the world around you.

Gardening goes well with a yoga routine in so many ways. In the morning, you wake up with the sun to water your plants. You do your sun salutations or find your flow, getting balanced to move into the day with mindfulness. You clear your mind through breathwork and stretching, much as you clear the garden of weeds.

Further, you're growing plants that will nourish your body. Sitting down to a healthy post-yoga meal with those you love, and with food you've cultivated, is the essence of rejuvenation. As you combine this mindfulness of physical health with gratitude for the earth's amazing capacity to generate life, you grow closer to the essence of yoga.

Walking and Basking in Nature

The wonders of walking can't be overstated, and this form of exercise is the perfect complement to yoga. Yoga and walking could easily be viewed as two sides of one coin. Like yoga, walking can be meditative — and there is in fact a kind of meditation called walking meditation. This form of meditation is slow, even paced, and dedicated to a limited space. You focus on your steps and the flow of your movement to prioritize mindfulness and reduce stress.

Or, like hot yoga, you can use walking to get aerobic exercise and stretch your limbs. The health benefits of walking in this regard are numerous. It improves immunity, lessens joint pain, helps you maintain a healthy weight, and even lessens your craving for sugar.

Walking's versatility means you can stroll to the yoga studio or to a spot in nature where you engage your yoga flow. Do this on a regular, even a daily basis, and you'll find the compound benefits of walking and doing yoga will keep you young and energetic. Walk through the woods or a park and bathe in the glory of nature. All told, there are many activities that complement yoga, but the most meditative ones like soaking, gardening, and walking are natural extensions of the yoga way.

Methodology.

To determine the most yoga-friendly states, we focused on three main factors:

• Number of yoga studios per capita: This indicates the number of Yoga Alliance registered yoga studios per 100,000 people, based on population data from the United States Census Bureau.
• Number of yoga practitioners: This measures the total number of Yoga Alliance (YA) registered yoga teachers in each state.
• Number of relevant Google searches per Google Trends data: Google Trends data provides insights into the topics that people are searching for. This data reflects the search interest in a topic. It measures how popular a term is in a particular place and timeframe in proportion to all other topics. Search data is normalized to allow for comparisons between different terms, locations, and time periods. The data is then ranked from 0 to 100, with 100 representing the highest level of interest in a term. If a term has a search interest of 100, it's particularly popular in that location and within that timeframe when compared to other topics.

All state and city population data was sourced from the United States Census Bureau, and yoga studio and instructor information was sourced from the Yoga Alliance registration directory.

When evaluating the best states for professional yoga instructors, we considered both the cost of living data and the average yoga instructor salary for each state. States with lower costs-of-living and higher salaries were included in our list.

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