The Amish Blueprint

Ancient Habits Outpacing Modern Health Crises

Amid the endless churn of fitness trackers, miracle drugs, and diet fads, one community stands apart, defying the odds with bodies honed by habit rather than hype. The Amish, with an obesity rate scraping just 4%, will eclipse the U.S. average of 42% in 2025.

This isn't the result of cutting-edge tech or pharmaceutical interventions, but eight foundational principles embedded in their way of life. As national obesity rates creep upward, fueled by sedentary routines and processed temptations, these practices emerge as a potent antidote, supported by the latest research and data.

While the Amish are often associated with iconic settlements like Lancaster County in Pennsylvania, their communities extend far beyond, thriving in 32 states across the United States as of 2025. Major populations cluster in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana, which together house about 61% of North America's Amish. Other notable states include New York, Wisconsin, Michigan, Missouri, Kentucky, Iowa, and Illinois, with smaller groups in places like Minnesota, Tennessee, and even Montana. This widespread presence underscores the adaptability of their lifestyle, from rural farmlands to emerging settlements in less traditional areas.

Here's a breakdown of the top 10 states by Amish population: