These Are the World’s Happiest Countries According to Latest Ranking

Each year, the World Happiness Report checks data from around the globe to see where people feel the happiest.

In 2025, Finland ranks first for the eighth year running, showing that strong community ties, high social trust, and a close connection to nature create a sense of well-being.

This year’s report also brings new insights, from the United States hitting its lowest rank ever to two Latin American countries entering the top 10 for the first time.

Here’s a look at the top-ranked nations, trends, and the countries struggling the most with happiness.

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1. Finland

Finland’s top spot is tied to its strong social safety net, high trust among neighbors, and a deep sense of community. The idea of “sisu,” which combines perseverance and resilience, is central to Finnish life. Visitors can tap into this spirit by enjoying local saunas (nearly 90% of Finns use one weekly) and exploring the country’s countless lakes and forests. 

2. Denmark

Denmark often appears near the top thanks to “hygge,” a concept that celebrates simple comforts and togetherness. Cities like Copenhagen are known for their bike-friendly streets, modern design, and social policies that value a balanced lifestyle. Grab a warm drink by a canal or visit a flea market to experience hygge firsthand.

3. Iceland

Iceland’s small population and natural wonders like geysers and waterfalls draw curious visitors. Its strong social connections shine especially during long winters when people come together.

4. Sweden

Sweden is known for emphasizing work-life balance. Generous parental leave and frequent breaks, or “fika,” show how the Swedes make time to relax. If you’re walking through Stockholm or kayaking off its shores, you’ll see how this approach boosts overall happiness.

5. Netherlands

Dutch happiness often relates to the country’s love of biking, open-minded outlook, and lively urban areas like Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Well-developed bike paths, canals, and a focus on innovation offer strong infrastructure and personal freedoms, which are both tied to higher well-being.

6. Costa Rica

New to the top 10, Costa Rica stands out for its “pura vida” motto, celebrating life’s basic joys. From rainforests and volcanoes to sunny beaches, the country’s focus on protecting nature supports tourism and local well-being. A dependable healthcare system and clean energy efforts also lift people’s outlook on life.

7. Norway

Norway’s dramatic fjords and mountain scenes inspire visitors, but the nation’s solid public services are behind resident satisfaction, like healthcare, education, and social support. Even in Oslo, Norway’s largest city, life moves at a relaxed pace.

8. Israel

Israel has historic sites and modern cities with a strong community support network. Tel Aviv’s nightlife and Jerusalem’s markets reveal a culture that values cooperation. This communal spirit helps Israel keep its high spot on the happiness list.

9. Luxembourg

Though small, Luxembourg is known for its green hills, high incomes, and generous social benefits. The country’s central location in Europe, good public services, and clean environment make it an appealing place to live—and put it near the top of the rankings.

10. Mexico

Mexico’s jump into the top 10 this year comes from strong family bonds, cultural traditions, and close-knit communities, especially in its villages. Whether you’re trying street food in Mexico City or relaxing by the coast in Tulum, you’ll notice the warmth and generosity that shape everyday life.

What About the United States?

The United States ranks 24th in 2025, which is its lowest position in the report’s history. Rising loneliness, especially among younger people, plays a big part. Some experts suggest that spending more time sharing meals and helping others could improve the sense of well-being among Americans, pointing to the importance of community support in boosting happiness.

Notable Mentions

Other places in the top 20 include Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Belgium, and Ireland, which are known for mixing stable economies, social trust, and access to nature. Researchers also highlight how sharing meals and volunteering can build happiness for both givers and receivers. Travelers may find plenty to learn by embracing the local customs and daily rhythms of the places they visit.

The Lowest-Ranked Countries

In 2025, Afghanistan remains in last place, with Sierra Leone, Lebanon, Malawi, and Zimbabwe also near the bottom of the list. These nations struggle with challenges like ongoing conflict, political instability, or economic hardship.

Top 50 Happiest Countries

These are the happiest countries in the world.

1. Finland
2. Denmark
3. Iceland
4. Sweden 
5. Netherlands
6. Costa Rica
7. Norway 
8. Israel 
9. Luxembourg
10. Mexico
11. Australia
12. New Zealand 
13. Switzerland
14. Belgium
15. Ireland
16. Lithuania 
17. Austria
18. Canada 
19. Slovenia 
20. Czechia 
21. United Arab Emirates
22. Germany
23. United Kingdom
24. United States
25. Belize
26. Poland
27. Taiwan
28. Uruguay 
29. Kosovo
30. Kuwait
31. Serbia
32. Saudi Arabia
33. France
34. Singapore
35. Romania
36. Brazil
37. El Salvador
38. Spain
39. Estonia
40. Italy
41. Panama
42. Argentina
43. Kazakhstan
44. Guatemala
45. Chile
46. Vietnam
47. Nicaragua 
48. Malta
49. Thailand
50. Slovakia

You can find the full list of the happiest countries in the world here.

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