When it comes to happiness on a global scale, Scandinavian countries consistently rank among the highest. The United Nations Sustainable Development Solution Network produces an annual report called the World Happiness Report.
This report rates nations based on six factors: freedom, corruption, life expectancy, generosity, social support, and GDP. The Gallup World Poll is the source of information utilized to compile the ranking. The final result, which ranges from 0 to 10, indicates which countries are the happiest, with ten being the most satisfied overall.
The degree of happiness experienced by immigrants was also evaluated for the first time in 117 out of the 156 nations that took part in the happiness poll in 2018. The following is what the survey discovered about the nations that rank highest in terms of happiness:
Table of Contents
Which Countries Have the Highest Levels Of Happiness?
| Rank | Country | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Finland |  7.74 |
| 2 | Denmark |  7.52 |
| 3 | Iceland |  7.51 |
| 4 | Sweden |  7.34 |
| 5 | Netherlands |  7.31 |
| 6 | Costa Rica |  7.27 |
| 7 | Norway |  7.26 |
| 8 | Israel |  7.23 |
| 9 | Luxembourg |  7.12 |
| 10 | Mexico |  6.98 |
1. Finland
According to the World Happiness Report findings, Finland’s five million inhabitants are the happiest people on earth, with an average score of 7.632 out of 10. Finland has the lowest rate of corruption, the highest quality of life, and the best government in the world.
The land area of Finland is covered with the most trees of any country in Europe for every square mile. A combination of factors, including a low danger level and excellent environmental standards, contribute to Finland’s status as one of the world’s most tranquil countries. According to the World Satisfaction Report, the happiness level among native Finns and many internationals who have made Finland their home is relatively stable.
2. Denmark
Even though it fell from the top spot in 2016 to second in 2017 and then to third in 2018, Denmark is still considered one of the world’s happiest nations. The steady decline seen over the past two years does not pose a significant threat to the nation as the standard of living continues to improve.
The happiness of Danes is directly proportional to the success of their nation’s health care and welfare systems, as well as their educational institutions. With a happiness score of 7.555 and top rankings in terms of GDP per capita and the freedom to make life choices, Denmark is expected to maintain its position as the happiest country in the world for a significant amount of time in the future.
3. Iceland
With a score of 7.495, Iceland occupies the fourth spot on the list of happiest countries in the world. It is common knowledge that Iceland is just, egalitarian, and peaceful. Its cheap taxes, free public education and healthcare, and overall high quality of life have helped it maintain a position at the top of international rankings.
As a result of increased interest in Iceland among travelers worldwide in recent years, the number of tourists who come to the nation has increased by a factor of four.
4. Sweden
According to the World Happiness Report, Sweden is the least happy of the Nordic countries, coming in at number nine on the list of the world’s happiest countries. Nevertheless, with a score of 7.314, it climbed one spot, exchanging places with Australia.
Sweden is known for its pleasant climate, stunning urban areas, and vast unspoiled nature. It is one of the most honest and open countries in the world with deficient levels of corruption. The citizens of Sweden have a high life expectancy, a high standard of living, excellent access to healthcare, and an excellent education system.
5. The Netherlands
People in the Netherlands are known for being open-minded and practical. The country has great infrastructure, a strong education system, and one of the best healthcare systems in the world.
Dutch society is peaceful, and people enjoy the freedom to make their own life choices. Children in the Netherlands are often ranked among the happiest in the world, thanks to supportive families and schools.
6.Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the only Central American country in the top ten, ranking sixth. Even though it isn’t the richest country, Costa Rica focuses on well-being and nature.
The people there live by a phrase called Pura Vida, which means “pure life”—a lifestyle focused on happiness, simplicity, and gratitude. The country doesn’t have an army and instead invests in health and education. People are friendly and have close family relationships, which brings a lot of joy.
7. Norway
According to a survey on global happiness that was done in 2017, Norway was the happiest country in the world. With a cumulative score of 7.594, it was only able to secure the runner-up spot in 2018, which is still quite an accomplishment.
Due to its generous welfare and comprehensive social security system, Norway remains at the top of the list of the happiest nations in the world. In addition, it is one of the most prosperous countries in the world.
8. Israel
Israel stands out because of its strong family values and community life. Even with some political and security challenges, people in Israel show high levels of happiness.
They are deeply connected to their culture, religion, and traditions, which gives their lives meaning and strength. The country also has a growing economy and good public services.
9. Luxembourg
Luxembourg is one of the richest countries in the world, and people there enjoy a high standard of living. The country is small, safe, and clean.
There are good job opportunities, and public transportation is free. Luxembourg is also very multicultural, with people from many countries living peacefully together.
10. Mexico
Mexico takes the tenth spot. Despite facing some economic and social challenges, Mexican people are known for their warm hearts and strong family bonds.
Life in Mexico is full of color, celebration, and close community ties. People often gather for meals, festivals, and family events, which adds joy and connection to everyday life.