If familiarity breeds contempt, that might explain why Delaware ranked first as the most jealous state in the Inited States.

A national survey of 2,000 Americans revealed a wide range of triggers for jealousy. It found jealousy is not limited to personal connections but also extends to the workplace, especially in Delaware.

Conducted by DatingNews.com, the survey delved into questions related to relationships, careers and finances. The findings revealed a significant number of Americans experience jealousy but for different aspects of their lives. In terms of relationships, the survey showed the majority of respondents feel envious of their partner’s friends. Specifically, 60% reported feeling jealous of friends who match their partner’s preferred gender. However, friends of any gender can be a source of tension: 40% of those surveyed admitted to feeling jealous when their partner spends time with friends instead of them.

In one distinctive turn, the main cause of jealousy in The First State is work-related.

Delaware tops states for jealousy

In DatingNews.com rank of the most jealous states, here are the top five and the primary reasons for jealous-inducing feelings:

1. Delaware

Delaware tops the list with a jealousy score of 45.2 out of 60. Survey respondents report higher levels of jealousy than other states, particularly in the workplace. Fifty-seven percent of respondents feel jealous when coworkers get promoted, and 51% are envious of their coworkers’ salaries.

2. Oklahoma

Oklahomans admitting to feeling jealous when their partners like models’ pictures on social media helped push Oklahoma’s score of 43.9, placing it second in the survey.

3. Rhode Island

The smallest state, Rhode Island, ecures the third spot with a jealousy score of 40.2. Its strong community bonds may contribute to heightened awareness of each other’s achievements, with 62% expressing envy towards their peers’ salaries.

4. Tennessee

Tennessee ranks fourth with a score of 39.3, where 37% have felt compelled to ask their partners to limit interactions with a friend due to jealousy.

5. Indiana

Indiana concludes the top five with a jealousy score of 36.9. While many Hoosiers celebrate their partners’ accomplishments, 34% acknowledge feeling a twinge of envy.

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Not just jealousy, but envy too

Jealousy involves the fear of losing something or someone important, often seen in romantic or close relationships. These feelings can “undermine relationships and friendships by making a person feel inadequate or insecure,” said Amber Brooks, Editor-in-Chief for DatingNews.com. “Whether it’s wealth, love, or Chris Evans’ relationship status, we all have dreams for ourselves, and it can be hard to see someone seemingly living your dream.”

Envy, on the other hand, arises when we desire something someone else possesses, like wealth, status or achievements. Despite these distinctions, the feelings often intertwine in complex ways. The DatingNews.com survey results found other people’s success triggered jealousy and envy:

• 54% envy their peers’ salaries
• Nearly 40% said they feel jealous of their peers’ jobs
• 45% feel jealous when their coworkers get promotions
• 57% are jealous of their peer’s wealth or possessions

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What are people most jealous of?

Here is what survey participants said was the one thing they were most jealous of: 

• People who can retire
• People who own homes
• Anyone richer than me
• The girl engaged to Chris Evans
• My best friend
• Cats

Ohio ranks as the least envious state, with Nevada, South Carolina, Connecticut and Maryland following closely behind as the top five least jealous states. Due to their smaller populations, there was insufficient data from Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, and Wyoming to be included in the survey results.

You can contact Anitra Johnson at ajohnson@delawareonline.com.