Report: Finland has once again been ranked the happiest country in the world, marking its eighth straight year at the top, according to the World Happiness Report 2025.
The annual report, released by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, highlights the continued dominance of Nordic nations in global happiness rankings. Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden follow Finland in second, third, and fourth place, maintaining their positions from previous years.
The rankings are based on survey responses in which individuals rate their own life satisfaction. The study, conducted in collaboration with Gallup and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, underscores the idea that happiness is shaped by more than just economic prosperity. Jon Clifton, CEO of Gallup, emphasized the importance of social bonds, stating, “Happiness isn’t just about wealth or growth – it’s about trust, connection, and knowing people have your back.”
Researchers identified several key factors that contribute to happiness, including social support, shared meals, and household size. Data from Mexico and Europe suggest that families of four to five members tend to experience the highest levels of life satisfaction. Additionally, the belief in the kindness of others plays a crucial role. A strong indicator of national happiness, according to the report, is whether people believe that a lost wallet will be returned to its owner. Nordic countries consistently rank among the highest in both perceived and actual wallet returns.
Despite the dominance of European countries in the top 20, a few notable exceptions emerged. Israel secured the eighth spot despite its ongoing conflict with Hamas, while Costa Rica and Mexico entered the top 10 for the first time, placing sixth and tenth, respectively.
However, not all nations are seeing positive trends. The United States has dropped to its lowest ranking ever at 24th place, having previously peaked at 11th in 2012. The report also noted a rise in social isolation, with the number of people dining alone in the U.S. increasing by 53 percent over the past two decades. Similarly, the United Kingdom is experiencing a decline in happiness, ranking 23rd—its lowest recorded level since 2017.
At the bottom of the rankings, Afghanistan remains the unhappiest country, with Afghan women reporting particularly harsh living conditions. Sierra Leone and Lebanon also rank among the least happy nations.
A troubling global trend highlighted by the report is the growing lack of social support among young adults. In 2023, nearly one in five young people worldwide said they had no one to rely on—a 39 percent increase compared to 2006.
The study ranks countries based on self-reported life satisfaction data collected from 2022 to 2024. Experts analyze these variations using factors such as GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity, and perceptions of corruption. The findings reinforce the idea that happiness is deeply connected to social trust, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.
