Top 10 Happiest Countries in the World 2023

Top 10 Happiest Countries in the World 2023

Looking for the happiest country in the world for your next trip or to migrate? Here’re 10 happiest countries in the world as per a report in 2023.

You might have heard about Finland being the happiest country in the world. But do you know why it tops the happiness index? Well, UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network states that individual happiness is subjective. However, several independent factors help create a happy society. Examples include how citizens assess their quality of life in terms of social support, income, health, freedom, generosity, and lack of corruption. And, a non-governmental organization has been rating over 150 countries using these factors for 11 years.
Nordic countries of Finland, Denmark, and Iceland continue to be the major winners. Besides, the world happiness report also notes that global life satisfaction is as high as it was before the pandemic despite the Ukraine war and other global crises.

In a press release, co-director of the Wellbeing Programme at the London School of Economics, Richard Layard stated, “The overall goal is a happier society. But we only get there if people make each other happy (and not just themselves). It is an inspiring goal for us as individuals. And it includes future generations' happiness as well as our mental health."

Now, let’s have a look at the top 10 happiest countries in the world that cracked the code.

Finland

The nation’s on the top of the list again, for the record sixth time. While Finland's total score (7.804) has dropped slightly from the last year (7.821), it still is far ahead of the rest. And it isn't keeping its happiness hidden to itself. The nation recently announced a "Masterclass of Happiness" to assist people in "finding their 'inner Finn' and mastering the Finnish state of mind." What's on the cards? Professionals will coach participants in establishing connections with nature within the Kuru Resort, Lakeland area. The region is popular for its stunning lakes and landscapes.

Denmark

Denmark takes the second spot this year with a 7.586 on the scorecard. Here, hygge is a way of life that proves that nations with high taxes can be happy too. While the Danish are Europe’s highest personal income taxpayers (nearly 56%), its citizens get a comprehensive social welfare system. Benefits include free health care and schooling that make them happier.

Iceland

This Land of Fire and Ice is the 3rd most happy country in the world. Moreover, it's also one of the healthiest nations too. By closing over 90% gender gap, Iceland also topped the World Economic Forum's 2022 Global Gender Gap Report. What else makes Icelanders happy? Some reasons include economic stability, high income, strong community sense, free education, and lack of corruption. Being home to the most beautiful natural landscapes could also be a reason.

Israel

This nation got the most notable shift in this year's ranking, rising five spots from nine to four. Since the first report in 2012, this is Israel’s highest position on the list. Experts attribute the country's quick revival following COVID to this jump. During this phase, Israel had a 6.5% expansion in the economy and a 4.4% surge in GDP per capita. According to statistics from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Israelis have strong social connections and a high life expectancy.

Netherlands

With 7,403 in the scorecard, the Netherlands is ranked fifth. Aside from its endless and joyful tulip fields, the latest International Monetary Fund praised the country's economy. It attracted accolades for its robust rebound and resilience compared to the rest of the EU. Furthermore, affordable higher education, a strong sense of community, a wonderful job market, and high political involvement are among other reasons for Dutch happiness.

Sweden

This year, Sweden climbed one position to sixth. Despite having more COVID-19 deaths than other Nordic countries, Sweden scored slightly better than the last year. According to OECD statistics, Sweden has the second lowest level of air and environmental pollution after Finland, resulting in a higher life expectancy. In Sweden, a high employment rate and gender equality (over 80%) contribute to higher levels of life satisfaction.

Norway

High incomes, low corruption, and tuition-free education combined with a strong social support network make Norwegians regard themselves as happy people. Norway is one of the nations that stayed fixed on the list of the top 10 happiest countries in the world. It also topped the list in 2017. Also, the destination isn’t too far for a quiet location to relax and rejuvenate. Explore an abundance of natural attractions including lakes, forests, mountains, fjords, and regular northern lights sightings.\

Switzerland

Switzerland dropped four places this year but is still among the world's healthiest and happiest nations. Stunning sceneries, high GDP per capita, and low crime rates create an environment of year-round recreation. Positive life satisfaction is also related to prosociality (charitable donations and volunteering) according to Swiss people, the World Happiness Report states.

Luxembourg

Luxembourg is ranked sixth for housing the happiest people in the world. It joined the list last year only with the ninth spot and a score of 7.228. Despite being one of Europe's least populous and smallest countries, (Rhode Island is slightly bigger), Luxembourg is one of the world’s wealthiest countries in terms of GDP per capita. Diversity, high public trust, and safety are some factors that help keep residents happy, even if half of them are foreign nationals.

New Zealand