RALEIGH, N.C. – In 2024, employees across the U.S. are finding greater satisfaction in their work lives than ever before. Flexible schedules, remote work options, and the growing adoption of four-day work weeks have helped to redefine what it means to balance work and life in meaningful ways. Resume.io surveyed 3,000 employees to find out where America’s happiest workers thrive and what keeps them motivated. The top 10 cities were: 1.    Honolulu, Hawaii 2.    Santa Barbara, California 3.    Austin, Texas 4.    San Francisco, California 5.    Buffalo, New York 6.    Colorado Springs, Colorado 7.    Dallas, Texas 8.    Seattle, Washington 9.    Naples, Florida 10.  New York City, New York The study found that one clear winner emerged as North Carolina’s top city for workplace happiness in 2024. Buffalo, which ranked 35th nationally, with employees giving a workplace happiness score of 8.4/10. The city demonstrates how unique local characteristics contribute to workplace satisfaction. From supportive professional environments to a diverse range of opportunities, Raleigh offers something special that helps employees feel fulfilled and motivated. These qualities reflect broader national trends, where flexibility, community, and opportunity play key roles in workplace happiness. Other North Carolina cities to make the top 100 were as follows (national scores): Fayetteville (#36); Charlotte (#51); Wilmington (#56); Durham (#68); Winston-Salem city (#74); and Cary (#86). Remote Work: The Satisfaction Booster Remote work remains a game-changer, with 36% of employees saying it greatly improves their job satisfaction. For another 24%, it has a moderate positive impact. While 24% feel it doesn’t affect their happiness either way, only a tiny 2% find that remote work actually lessens their job satisfaction. Overall, the ability to work from home seems to help people feel more balanced, allowing them to spend time on things that matter to them outside of work, whether that’s family, health, or personal growth. The Ideal Office Setup: Hybrid Wins the Day When it comes to the perfect work setup, hybrid takes the lead: 35% prefer a mix of remote and in-office work, while 28% are all about being in the office full-time. Flexibility without location requirements appeals to 20%, and 17% like remote-only. What’s clear is that people thrive with choice – being able to choose when and where they work allows them to bring their best to both work and life. What Causes Job Stress? It’s All in the Expectations Even with more flexibility, stressors still exist in the workplace. Workload and high expectations are the top drivers of stress for 34% of employees, while 19% struggle with poor work-life balance. Job insecurity and limited growth opportunities affect 17% and 15%, respectively, while 15% feel stressed by a lack of support from management. “2024 has been a standout year for many employees across America,” says Resume.io career expert, Amanda Augustine. “With advancements in workplace flexibility, enhanced benefits, and a focus on supportive, inclusive environments, professionals nationwide are finding greater satisfaction and fulfillment in their careers than ever before.”