Across five studies and three samples of early and late adolescents from suburban areas (N = 2198) this research provides a theoretical and empirical examination of a new construct engaged living which consists of social integration and absorption. Engaged living as we define it is having a passion to help others and be completely immersed in activities. The development and psychometric properties of The Engaged Living in Youth Scale (ELYS) are described. Cross-sectional and longitudinal data including self and other reports then show that the ELYS is related to a variety of attributes well-being and academic achievement outcomes. Overall the pattern of associations indicates that youth high in engaged living tend to be more grateful hopeful happier (via self peer and teacher reports) prosocial and report elevated life satisfaction positive affect and self-esteem and higher grade point averages. Higher scorers also tend to be less depressed envious antisocial and delinquent.