Top 10 Happiest Countries in the World for 2022

Switzerland has consistently ranked among the happiest countries in the world due to factors like a high GDP per capita, excellent social support systems, and low corruption, all of which contribute to a high level of trust among its citizens. Not just famous for its banks, luxury watches, and chocolates, Switzerland boasts stunning Alpine mountains that cover about 60% of its territory, with over 1,500 lakes, making it easy for Swiss residents to find a peaceful retreat in the mountains or by the water.

In Switzerland, everything is put to a vote, from workers' vacation days to the number of immigrants allowed into the country, with referendums occurring multiple times each year. This direct democracy system gives Swiss citizens a strong sense of involvement and pride in their country's development. The Swiss are known for being reserved, which can be frustrating for first-time visitors, but their tightly-knit society is built on the belief that every voice matters, helping foster long-term connections and a lasting sense of belonging.

The happiness level in the Netherlands has remained nearly unchanged from 2005 to 2021. With a score of 7.415, this Nordic country secured the fifth spot in the 2022 World Happiness Report. Dutch citizens enjoy an excellent work-life balance, benefit from high-quality education, low crime rates, and a high level of disposable income.

A 2013 UNICEF report named Dutch children as the happiest in the world, based on factors such as education, happiness, safety, and health. According to the report, 85% of Dutch children have breakfast with their parents every morning, a sign of positive health. Furthermore, the Netherlands is known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural landscapes, including vast fields of tulips. It's no surprise that the Dutch have one of the highest levels of life satisfaction in the world.

Luxembourg is a small nation nestled between Belgium, France, and Germany, home to over 640,000 residents. While Luxembourg isn’t among the most populous countries in Europe, it leads in ethnic diversity. Nearly 50% of its population holds foreign citizenship, representing over 170 different nationalities. Luxembourg also welcomes almost 200,000 daily commuters from neighboring countries. The European nation offers high wages and a strong social welfare system to support its citizens in retirement.

Luxembourg also provides many non-financial advantages, including a top-tier healthcare system and a perfect balance between work and life. Coupled with a high GDP, long life expectancy, stable social support, and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s clear why Luxembourg belongs among the top 10 happiest countries in the world.

The Scandinavian nation of Sweden has dropped one position compared to last year, now ranking seventh, although its score is slightly higher than in 2021. Sweden remains one of the happiest countries globally, largely due to its high per capita GDP. Social equality is deeply embedded in the education system, starting from kindergarten, and benefits like 16 months of paid parental leave, which can be shared by parents after the birth of a child, and free childcare make Sweden one of the best countries for women.

At its core, Sweden’s emphasis on work-life balance fosters a happier community. 'Lagom' is a Swedish way of life (similar to Denmark’s hygge), which revolves around creating balance and moderation. Swedes apply lagom to everything, from their wardrobes to their diets. The simplest way for visitors to embrace this lifestyle is by participating in fika, a designated time each day to slow down and be present, often with a hot cup of coffee. Just visit any café in Stockholm around 11 AM to experience this daily tradition with locals.

There’s not much to complain about life in Norway. The combination of a well-integrated welfare system and a growing economy built on the responsible management of the country’s natural resources (including fossil fuel-powered vehicles) means that very few people are left behind, and the sense of social support, trust in government, and economic benefits contribute to overall happiness.

Known for its stunning coastline, fjords, lakes, and mystical northern lights, The Kingdom of Norway actually topped the rankings in 2017. With a high GDP per capita, excellent universal healthcare, and free education for all students regardless of nationality, Norway is truly exceptional. It also boasts some of Europe’s deepest and most beautiful lakes, including Lake Mjosa, located about 60 miles north of Oslo. A bike path runs around the entire lake, so you can take a relaxing ride before cooling off with a swim.

After ranking 12th last year, Israel finally broke into the top 10 in 2022. The country’s response to the pandemic earned it greater trust from its citizens, as it was one of the first nations to successfully vaccinate a large portion of its population. Israel is also one of the healthiest countries globally, with some of the lowest diet-related deaths (such as those caused by high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes) worldwide.

The rich cultural and culinary heritage of Israel, combined with numerous natural landmarks, only enhances the quality of life for its people. It’s no surprise that the nation could climb even higher in the rankings next year. Visitors can enjoy the Mediterranean diet that boosts longevity at thousands of restaurants in Tel Aviv, Israel's culinary capital.

New Zealand ranked 9th in the list of the happiest countries in the world in 2022. The country offers several advantages, including stunning natural attractions, easy accessibility, and a high quality of life. With a perfect balance between work and leisure, a laid-back lifestyle, and a year-round temperate climate, people in New Zealand enjoy plenty of outdoor activities and are generally satisfied with their lives.

New Zealand also boasted one of the lowest COVID-19 death rates during the pandemic, reinforcing its position in the top 10. Even without the pandemic, New Zealand is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, offering numerous outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes. Whether you’re kayaking in Milford Sound, hiking through Tongariro National Park, or bungee jumping in Queenstown, you’ll definitely have an unforgettable experience.

For the fifth consecutive year, Finland has maintained its position as the happiest country in the world. Despite facing an economic downturn due to Covid-19, the 5.5 million residents of this Nordic nation remain optimistic about their government and their way of life. With a score of 7.821 out of 10, Finland continues to lead thanks to factors like high GDP per capita, social support, life expectancy, and generosity.

With an abundance of natural resources, including beaches, lakes, islands, and forests, it's no surprise that Finland is not only one of the happiest countries but also a major attraction for millions of visitors eager to experience the joy of living here. Finland is also ranked among the top countries for education, with success largely due to a requirement for teachers to hold a master's degree and a focus on experiential learning rather than standardized testing.

Although Denmark has dropped to second place this year, there are still many reasons why the country consistently ranks high. Denmark boasts near top rankings across all reported indicators such as life expectancy, social support, and generosity, as well as a strong commitment to renewable energy production. A recent study by the Copenhagen-based Happiness Research Institute highlighted several factors contributing to Denmark's happiness, including trust in government, economic security, freedom, citizen participation, and work-life balance.

Beyond the socio-economic factors, the country's happiness is undoubtedly also rooted in its deep respect for the planet it calls home. To truly experience this “nature-immersed” mentality, visit Denmark in summer and stay at a traditional inn along the Danish coastline. After a few days of cycling along the shores, enjoying fresh mussels and homemade sourdough, and soaking in the Baltic Sea views from a shaded hammock, you’ll surely find yourself in a slightly better mood.

Iceland takes third place on the list of the happiest countries in the world this year with a total score of 7.557. The island nation, roughly the size of Kentucky, is home to over 366,000 residents, most of whom live in the capital, Reykjavik. Iceland ranks highly in the percentage of people who report having a reliable companion to turn to in times of difficulty. This became especially clear after the country's financial collapse in 2007 and its subsequent recovery.

With low crime rates, a high standard of living, access to free, high-quality education (with a staggering 99% literacy rate), and a return to pre-pandemic unemployment levels, Icelanders remain optimistic. But it's Iceland's breathtaking natural beauty that also deeply influences its residents' well-being. Majestic volcanoes, glacier-covered rivers, mossy fields, stunning waterfalls, magnificent hot springs, and fjords are just some of the reasons why daily life in Iceland is unlike anywhere else.