According to the World Happiness Report 2025, the top 10 happiest countries, based on average life evaluations from 2022–2024, are:
- Finland – 7.741
- Denmark – Score not specified in results, but ranked second
- Iceland – Score not specified, ranked third
- Sweden – 7.344
- Netherlands – Score not specified, ranked fifth
- Costa Rica – Score not specified, ranked sixth
- Norway – Score not specified, ranked seventh
- Israel – Score not specified, ranked eighth
- Luxembourg – Score not specified, ranked ninth
- Mexico – Score not specified, ranked tenth
These rankings, derived from Gallup World Poll data, assess factors like GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity, and low corruption. Nordic countries dominate due to strong social systems, trust, and work-life balance, while Costa Rica and Mexico stand out for strong social networks and economic optimism. The U.S. ranks 24th, its lowest ever, partly due to declining happiness among those under 30. Afghanistan ranks as the least happy country.
What about cities?
The 2025 Happy City Index, published by the Institute for Quality of Life, ranks the world’s happiest cities based on 82 indicators across six categories: citizens, governance, environment, economy, health, and mobility. Here are the top 10 happiest cities for 2025, along with key factors contributing to their rankings:
- Copenhagen, Denmark (Score: 1039) – Tops the list due to its innovative urban planning, extensive cycling infrastructure, green spaces, and high trust in public institutions. Its vibrant cultural scene and focus on sustainability, like aiming for climate neutrality, enhance residents’ well-being.
- Zurich, Switzerland (Score: 993) – Excels in mobility with 74% green transportation options and a safe road network (0.07 traffic fatalities per 10,000 residents). High air quality (PM10 level of 16) and economic strength as a financial hub boost happiness.
- Aarhus, Denmark – Strong in health (100% medical insurance coverage, 4.4 doctors per 1,000 residents) and environment (1.35 parks per square kilometer, 53% green mobility). A 37-hour workweek supports work-life balance, and 86% of residents are proficient in a foreign language.
- Antwerp, Belgium – Scores high in education (24.8% hold master’s degrees, 7% engage in lifelong learning) and environment, with reliable public transport and green spaces. Its compact size and cultural offerings, like riverside parks and museums, enhance livability.
- Rotterdam, Netherlands – Known for innovative architecture and sustainability, it promotes affordable housing and green initiatives. Its multicultural vibe and circular economy projects foster a dynamic, inclusive urban life.
- Munich, Germany – Balances tradition and modernity with excellent public services, a thriving economy, and green spaces like the English Garden. Proximity to the Alps and family-friendly policies add to its appeal.
- Taipei, Taiwan – Offers efficient public transport, safety, and access to cultural landmarks and nature. Its focus on healthcare and accessibility ensures a high quality of life for diverse populations.
- Singapore, Singapore – Ranks high in health (strong public health initiatives) and governance (policies easing cost-of-living burdens). Its public housing scheme supports financial security, and its clean, efficient infrastructure is a key strength.
- New York City, NY, USA – The happiest U.S. city, ranking 17th globally, excels in governance, economy, environment, and citizen engagement. Despite its crowded, expensive nature, access to culture, green spaces like Central Park, and connectivity (three major airports) drive happiness.
- Minneapolis, MN, USA – The second-happiest U.S. city (30th globally), it scores well for natural beauty, cultural energy, and inclusive urban living. Its high quality of life and community focus stand out.
Key Observations:
- Nordic Dominance: Copenhagen and Aarhus reflect Denmark’s high happiness scores, driven by welfare systems, green mobility, and work-life balance.
- U.S. Cities: Only New York City and Minneapolis made the “gold” tier globally, with other U.S. cities like Washington, D.C. (43rd), ranking lower. Silver-tier U.S. cities include Baltimore, Columbus, Los Angeles, Nashville, San Diego, San Antonio, Salt Lake City, and Seattle, while bronze-tier cities include Boston, Houston, Indianapolis, Orlando, Phoenix, Portland, and San Jose.
- Methodology: The Happy City Index uses open data and resident interviews, assessing factors like education, green spaces, healthcare access, and social trust. The addition of health as a category in 2025 highlights its growing importance post-COVID-19.
- Comparison to Countries: Cities in happier countries (e.g., Denmark, Switzerland) often align with national rankings, but urban-specific factors like mobility and cultural access can elevate city happiness beyond national averages. For example, New York City ranks higher than the U.S.’s 24th place nationally.
For context, Sweden’s high national happiness (4th globally, score 7.344) aligns with its absence from the top 10 city list, suggesting its urban centers may not stand out as distinctly as Copenhagen or Zurich. If you’re curious about specific Swedish cities or other regions, let me know