Nordic Nation Tops World’s Happiness Rankings for Ninth Consecutive Year

Top-ranked countries

The report names Finland first, followed by Iceland and Denmark. Costa Rica reached fourth place, a record high for Latin America.

• 1 — Finland (average life evaluation 7.764)
• 2 — Iceland
• 3 — Denmark
• 4 — Costa Rica
• 5 — Sweden
• 6 — Norway
• 7 — Netherlands
• 8 — Israel
• 9 — Luxembourg
• 10 — Switzerland

Method and measurements

Survey respondents rate their lives on a 0-to-10 Cantril Ladder. Researchers average responses over three years to reduce short-term volatility.

Six factors are used to explain differences. They include GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, generosity, and perceptions of freedom and corruption.

Regional patterns and notable placements

Nordic countries dominate the upper ranks. Sweden and Norway joined the Nordic cluster in the top six.

English-speaking countries were largely absent from the top ten. New Zealand placed 11th, Ireland 13th, and Australia 15th.

• United States — 23rd (average life evaluation 6.816)
• United Arab Emirates — 21st
• Saudi Arabia — 22nd
• Canada — 25th
• United Kingdom — 29th

Youth wellbeing and the digital age

The report highlights falling wellbeing among young people. Life evaluations for those under 25 fell by almost one full point in some wealthy countries over the last decade.

Researchers link the decline to patterns of internet and social media use. Time spent gaming or scrolling was flagged as an important factor.

Expert observations

John F. Helliwell pointed to social cooperation as a strength for high-ranking countries. He said cooperation helps societies cope with adversity.

Zeynep Ozkok warned that the digital era is reshaping social and emotional foundations. She called for policies that reflect differing digital experiences.

Lowest-ranked countries

Countries affected by conflict or severe hardship occupy the bottom slots. Afghanistan placed last in the ranking.

• 143 — Botswana
• 144 — Zimbabwe
• 145 — Malawi
• 146 — Sierra Leone
• 147 — Afghanistan

The World Happiness Report is now in its fourteenth year. Filmogaz.com will continue to track developments in global wellbeing and youth wellbeing trends.