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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The 2024 World Happiness Report has revealed country rankings in terms of happiness score. The top 10 list is dominated by Nordic countries, with Finland securing the top position for over a couple of years.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 happiest countries in the world according to the 2024 World Happiness Report. Please keep in mind that the rankings are based on citizens’ own assessments of their happiness in regard to the single-item Cantril ladder life-evaluation questions.
List of the Happiest Countries in the World
The following is the 2024 World Happiness Report’s country rankings by life evaluations in 2021-2023. We also cited Forbes, Tempo, Global Finance Magazine, and several other sources to provide additional information about the countries.
1. Finland (Score: 7.741)
For over six consecutive years, Finland has claimed the title of the happiest country in the world. Mostly recognized for its beautiful nature, the Nordic country’s key success to happiness lies in its unique concept known as sisu.
Business Finland explains that the term refers to a concept combining grit, resilience, and determination. This approach enables Finns to achieve results while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
On the other hand, US News perceives that several factors, such as a strong social safety net, gender equality, and an educated citizenry, largely contribute to Finns’ happiness.
2. Denmark (Score: 7.583)
Denmark consistently ranks near the top of the list, thanks to its robust welfare system and strong sense of community. Trust and security are relatively high in the country.
More importantly, the government benefits significantly from taxation revenue, largely due to the Danish people being compliant, which allows it to fully ensure the well-being of its citizens.
3. Iceland (Score: 7.525)
Given the name, many assume that Iceland is icy, even though only 11 percent of the land is covered in ice. From now on, perhaps it’s more appropriate to refer to the country as “the Land of Happiness”.
Low-tax policy, as well as free education and healthcare, is in charge of bringing happiness to the people. Moreover, Iceland faces extremely low crime rates, making it the most peaceful country in the world.
4. Sweden (Score: 7.344)
Much like its Nordic contenders, Sweden is mostly celebrated for extensively facilitating its residents with multiple public services, from good education to excellent healthcare, Global Citizen Solutions revealed. This surely affects the life quality of the Swedish people which eventually results in a good score on the happiness index, coming in at 7.341.
5. Israel (Score: 7.341)
Surprisingly, Israel makes its way to the top 10 happiest countries in the world, although it is involved in a perpetual conflict with Palestine. Garnering a score of 7.319, the happiness of every Israeli stems from storing familial and communal bonds which are essential for a sense of belonging and support to thrive, says Israel Hayom.
6. Netherlands (Score: 7.319)
High GDP per capita, as well as strong social networks and support systems, is instrumental in ensuring the welfare of people in the Netherlands. Besides, most Dutch people enjoy a work-life balance due to a short workweek and ample vacation days, Holland Times notes.
When it comes to the happiness index, the Netherlands scores 7.319.
7. Norway (Score: 7.302)
There is no way for Norway not to be included on this list. The country is a beacon of happiness and is particularly praised for establishing a working system that propers employees.
As Tempo reported, people won’t get fired easily, thanks to the system. The government even provides a bunch of benefits in case you lose your job. Furthermore, Norway's nature also plays an important role in making its people happy.
8. Luxembourg (Score: 7.122)
Luxembourg is able to ensure the welfare of the people thanks to its high purchasing power, the RTL Today mentions. Corruption is nearly nonexistent and citizens are granted the freedom to make their own life choices, which contributed to the overall happiness for the most part.
9. Switzerland (Score: 7.060)
Switzerland consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world. The country is considered to be politically, economically, and socially stable. Not to mention, Swiss people tend to have a more positive outlook on life.
10. Australia (Score: 7.057)
Outside Europe, Australia shines as the tenth happiest country in the world. According to the Academy of Entrepreneurs, this achievement is attributable to several factors, such as a strong economy, a high standard of living, a sunny climate, and a strong social support system.
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