For the eighth consecutive year, Finland has been ranked as the world's happiest country, with locals and experts pointing to its strong welfare system and deep connection to nature as key factors in life satisfaction.
Ireland has climbed two spots, moving from 17th place in 2023 to 15th in 2024.
At the other end of the scale, Afghanistan remains the unhappiest country, plagued by a severe humanitarian crisis since the Taliban's return to power in 2020.
Finland 
Denmark
Iceland
Sweden
Israel
Costa Rica 
Netherlands
Norway
Switzerland
Mexico
The decline in happiness in the US is attributed to:
A 53% increase in people dining alone over the past two decades.
A rise in "deaths of despair" (suicide, substance abuse).
Social isolation and economic pressures.
The survey was conducted before President Donald Trump's return to office, meaning further changes in US happiness levels could emerge in future reports.
Strong democracy & low corruption
Universal healthcare & social benefits
Work-life balance & high-quality education
Connection with nature (Finland has over 160,000 lakes and vast forests)
This year’s Happiness Report found that:
However, challenges such as housing shortages, inflation, and healthcare pressures remain key concerns for future well-being.
With Finland retaining its crown and Ireland moving up the ranks, the 2024 Happiness Report highlights the importance of strong communities, work-life balance, and social trust in shaping life satisfaction worldwide.
Ireland has climbed two spots, moving from 17th place in 2023 to 15th in 2024.
At the other end of the scale, Afghanistan remains the unhappiest country, plagued by a severe humanitarian crisis since the Taliban's return to power in 2020.
The Top 10 Happiest Countries (2024 Rankings):
Finland Denmark Iceland Sweden Israel Costa Rica Netherlands Norway Switzerland Mexico US and UK Happiness Rankings Drop
- The US fell to 24th place, its lowest ranking since the report began in 2012.
- The UK is now 23rd, just one spot ahead of the US.
The decline in happiness in the US is attributed to:
A 53% increase in people dining alone over the past two decades. A rise in "deaths of despair" (suicide, substance abuse). Social isolation and economic pressures.The survey was conducted before President Donald Trump's return to office, meaning further changes in US happiness levels could emerge in future reports.
Why Are Finns So Happy?
Experts say Finland’s happiness is due to: Strong democracy & low corruption Universal healthcare & social benefits Work-life balance & high-quality education Connection with nature (Finland has over 160,000 lakes and vast forests)Generosity and Community: The Secret to Happiness?
This year’s Happiness Report found that:
- Acts of kindness & generosity contribute more to happiness than a high salary.
- People underestimate the kindness of their communities.
- Nordic countries have some of the highest rates of "lost wallets" being returned.
Ireland’s Happiness Climb
Ireland’s rise to 15th place reflects economic stability, strong social support, and a resilient national spirit.However, challenges such as housing shortages, inflation, and healthcare pressures remain key concerns for future well-being.
With Finland retaining its crown and Ireland moving up the ranks, the 2024 Happiness Report highlights the importance of strong communities, work-life balance, and social trust in shaping life satisfaction worldwide.
