Top 10 Happiest Countries—and 3 Miserable Ones Struggling Below

Finland: The Pinnacle of Happiness

Finland stands at the top of the World Happiness Report for the seventh consecutive year in 2025, earning a striking score of 7.8 out of 10. Finnish people enjoy a society built on mutual trust, equality, and a reliable government that invests heavily in health and education.

The concept of “sisu,” meaning resilience and perseverance, is woven into Finnish culture, helping people face challenges calmly. Nature is central to Finnish happiness, with most citizens living close to forests and lakes, making outdoor recreation a daily part of life.

The low crime rate and honest public institutions foster a strong sense of safety and stability. Work-life balance is respected, with ample vacation days and supportive family policies.

Mental health services are readily accessible and prioritized as an essential right. This blend of social support, natural beauty, and effective governance makes Finland a shining example of national well-being.

Denmark: A Model of Welfare

Denmark holds a happiness score of 7.6, earning its reputation through a robust welfare state that covers health, education, and social protections for all. Danish society emphasizes “hygge,” a unique sense of coziness and togetherness, that brings comfort during long winters.

Citizens trust their government, believing it acts in their best interests, which reduces social anxiety. Free healthcare and university education lift financial burdens, allowing people to pursue fulfilling lives without constant economic stress.

Flexible work hours and generous maternity and paternity leave policies help Danes maintain a healthy work-life balance. Urban planning favors cyclists and pedestrians, creating cleaner, more connected communities.

Environmental sustainability is a national priority, with Denmark investing in renewable energy and low-emission transport. The combination of social trust, welfare, and green living elevates Denmark’s overall happiness.

Switzerland: Wealth and Well-being

Switzerland ranks third in happiness, boasting a score of 7.5, thanks to its prosperity, stability, and social cohesion. The Swiss enjoy one of the world’s highest GDPs per capita, which translates into excellent public services and infrastructure.

Health care is universal and of high quality, and education standards remain among the best globally. The country's clean environment and breathtaking mountains offer endless opportunities for recreation, which are linked to high mental and physical well-being.

Switzerland’s system of direct democracy gives citizens a strong voice in decisions, building trust and satisfaction. The crime rate is low and public spaces are safe and well-maintained.

Personal privacy and freedom are highly respected, contributing to a sense of dignity and autonomy. This unique blend of wealth, participation, and security keeps Switzerland near the top of the happiness charts.

Iceland: Community and Connection

Iceland, with a happiness score of 7.5, benefits from its tight-knit community and egalitarian spirit. The population is small, which helps foster a feeling of belonging and mutual support among neighbors.

Crime is rare, and trust between citizens and government is high, allowing people to feel safe in their daily lives. Icelanders cherish their dramatic natural landscapes, from geysers to glaciers, and spend much time outdoors, which promotes well-being and social interaction.

The government invests in mental health, and support for gender equality is strong, making the country progressive and inclusive. Education and healthcare are universally accessible and of high quality.

Cultural traditions, such as storytelling and music, help bring people together and maintain a sense of identity. Together, these factors create a warm and supportive environment, despite the country’s cold climate.

Netherlands: A Culture of Happiness

The Netherlands places fifth with a happiness score of 7.4, celebrated for its open-minded culture and high standard of living. Dutch cities are famous for their vibrant cycling culture, which supports health and community interaction.

Strong social services guarantee access to healthcare and education for all citizens, reducing stress and anxiety. The Dutch take pride in their tolerance and inclusivity, which extends to policies supporting LGBTQ+ rights and multicultural integration.

Work-life balance is highly valued, and part-time work is common, enabling people to spend more time with family and friends. Environmental efforts are noticeable, with green spaces and clean waterways featured in both urban and rural areas.

Art, music, and festivals are integral to community life, fostering joy and togetherness. These qualities combine to make daily life in the Netherlands both fulfilling and happy.

Norway: Nature and Nurture

Norway scores 7.4 in happiness, reflecting its strong welfare system and deep connection to nature. Norwegians benefit from universal healthcare, high-quality education, and generous parental leave, which ensure security and opportunity from childhood onward.

The tradition of “friluftsliv,” or open-air living, encourages people to spend time in the country’s dramatic landscapes, which is proven to boost mental health. High wages and low unemployment contribute to financial stability.

Trust in government and low corruption levels foster a sense of fairness and safety. The government invests in mental health and substance abuse support, reducing stigma and helping people in need.

Gender equality is well established, and people from diverse backgrounds are welcomed and supported. This holistic approach to health, nature, and equality helps keep Norway’s population content.

Sweden: Equality and Happiness

Sweden, with a happiness score of 7.3, is recognized for its focus on social equality, sustainability, and wellness. The Swedish social model provides free healthcare and education, which reduces stress related to life’s basic needs.

Employees enjoy generous vacation time and flexible parental leave, helping families maintain harmony and happiness. The government’s transparent and accountable policies foster trust among citizens.

Sweden’s cities are clean, green, and pedestrian-friendly, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. Social inclusion is a core value, and anti-discrimination laws are strictly enforced.

The Swedish love for nature is evident, with many taking part in outdoor activities and enjoying the country's forests and lakes. These strengths combine to make Sweden an ideal place for both families and individuals to thrive.

Luxembourg: Wealth and Well-being

Luxembourg holds eighth place with a happiness score of 7.3, powered by a robust economy, international diversity, and strong social services. This small nation offers its residents access to high-quality healthcare, free public transport, and excellent schools.

Luxembourg’s multicultural society welcomes people from all over the world, making it feel inclusive and dynamic. The government’s generous social support programs help prevent poverty and social exclusion.

Many Luxembourgers benefit from a healthy work-life balance, with plenty of time for leisure and family. The country’s picturesque landscapes, from rolling hills to ancient castles, provide a beautiful backdrop for daily life.

Public safety is high, and the political environment is stable and peaceful. These factors make Luxembourg a uniquely happy place to live.

New Zealand: A Focus on Well-being

New Zealand ranks ninth, scoring 7.2 for its commitment to well-being, equality, and the environment. Kiwis live among some of the world’s most stunning natural wonders—mountains, beaches, and forests—which are cherished and protected.

The government has made mental health a top priority, especially after the challenges of recent years, with new funding and awareness campaigns in place. A strong sense of community is seen in the widespread support for volunteer organizations and local initiatives.

The economy is stable, and social safety nets ensure support for those in need. Policies promote inclusivity, with significant progress in recognizing the rights and culture of Māori and other minorities.

Education and healthcare are accessible, and people feel safe in their neighborhoods. This combination of social, economic, and environmental strengths keeps New Zealanders smiling.

Austria: A Blend of Culture and Happiness

Austria rounds out the top ten with a happiness score of 7.1, blending cultural richness with a high quality of life. The Austrian healthcare and education systems are publicly funded and accessible to all, removing major sources of stress.

People enjoy a healthy work-life balance, with laws protecting vacation time and family leave. Vienna is regularly ranked as one of the world’s most livable cities, thanks to its clean streets, efficient public transport, and vibrant arts scene.

The government invests in social welfare and mental health, making sure no one is left behind. Austrians also benefit from a strong sense of community, with many local festivals and traditions that bring people together.

The country’s breathtaking mountains and lakes encourage outdoor activity and relaxation. These features combine to make Austria not just beautiful, but also deeply content.

Afghanistan: Struggling Amid Hardship

Afghanistan sits at the bottom of the happiness rankings, with a devastatingly low score of 2.5 reflecting years of ongoing conflict and instability. The population faces daily uncertainty due to violence, political chaos, and severe poverty.

Basic services such as healthcare, education, and clean water are often inaccessible for many citizens. Food insecurity and malnutrition are rampant, particularly among children and vulnerable groups.

Mental health issues are widespread, exacerbated by trauma and a lack of support resources. Women and girls face severe restrictions on their rights and opportunities, further deepening social despair.

The absence of reliable governance and public safety makes daily life incredibly challenging. Afghanistan’s situation highlights how conflict and deprivation can crush national well-being.

South Sudan: Burdened by War and Famine

South Sudan, scoring 2.6, continues to struggle with the aftermath of civil war, widespread poverty, and a dire humanitarian crisis. Many citizens have been displaced from their homes and live in refugee camps, where resources are scarce.

Hunger and malnutrition are common, and healthcare infrastructure is limited or non-existent in rural areas. Ongoing violence and instability make it difficult for families to plan for the future or feel safe.

Education rates remain low, particularly for girls, due to both conflict and cultural barriers. Humanitarian aid is often the only lifeline, but access is hampered by insecurity.

Social trust is low, with communities fractured by years of war. Despite these hardships, many South Sudanese show resilience, but happiness remains elusive.

Yemen: The Weight of Crisis

Yemen’s happiness score of 2.7 reflects the catastrophic impact of more than a decade of civil war and international blockade. Millions are on the brink of famine, while disease outbreaks like cholera and dengue fever are common due to the collapse of health services.

Children face the brunt of the crisis, with high rates of malnutrition and lack of access to schooling. Bombings and violence have destroyed vital infrastructure, leaving cities and villages in ruins.

Economic collapse means that even basic necessities are unaffordable for most families. Humanitarian groups struggle to reach those in need, and fear is a constant part of daily life.

The breakdown of social support systems has left many isolated and hopeless. Yemen’s situation is a stark reminder of how conflict and hardship devastate a nation’s happiness.

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