Sleep deprivation in Florida is not just a personal issue but also an economic one. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 38.8% of adults in Florida are getting less than seven hours of sleep each night—impacting both personal productivity and the state’s economy.
randall Croom, associate professor at Stetson University, explains that lack of sleep can reduce workplace productivity by up to 5%. It also increases the risk of safety-related errors and affects health insurance costs for employers due to potential medical claims.
A report from the Review of Economics and Statistics shows that one additional hour of sleep per week boosts earnings by 1.1% in the short term and 5% in the long run. This underscores the economic value of good sleep, which includes higher productivity, better health outcomes, and fewer lost workdays.
While getting seven hours of sleep may not be feasible for everyone, small changes can make a big difference. For instance, establishing a consistent sleep schedule—even on weekends—is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve well-being. Simple tips like timing dinner, avoiding blue light exposure, exercising regularly, and cooling down before bed can all contribute to better sleep quality.
Florida’s counties vary in sleep habits: Seminole County has the highest rate (34.3%) while Volusia County leads with 59.8%. These variations highlight how different lifestyle choices affect sleep patterns across the state.
In conclusion, improving sleep hygiene is not just about personal health—it’s a smart investment in productivity and economic stability for Florida. By making small changes to daily routines, Floridians can reap significant benefits while keeping costs low.
Source: https://health.wusf.usf.edu/health-news-florida/2025-01-22/floridians-lack-sleep-bringing-snooze-wallet