Finland Tops Happiness Rankings Again, U.S. Hits Record Low

HELSINKI, Finland — Finland has reclaimed its title as the world’s happiest country for the eighth consecutive year, according to the 2025 World Happiness Report released on March 20, coinciding with the United Nations’ International Day of Happiness. The report places Finland at the top, while the United States has recorded its lowest ranking ever at 24th.

In the latest report, Finland is followed closely by Denmark and Iceland, which have also secured their slots in the top three. This consistency highlights the enduring positive quality of life experiences in Nordic countries, known for their robust social support systems. “Nordic countries like Finland continue to benefit from universally available and high-quality health, education, and social support systems,” stated Ilana Ron-Levey, managing director at Gallup.

The rankings reflect average life evaluations from the Gallup World Poll, which surveyed over 140 nations and analyzed data spanning from 2022 to 2024. Life evaluations are determined based on various factors, including gross domestic product per capita, social support, health expectancy, freedom, generosity, and perceptions of corruption.

According to John Helliwell, a founding editor of the report, “People’s fellow citizens are better than they think they are… and realizing that will make you happier.” Helliwell emphasized the importance of a strong community in personal happiness, noting that a welfare state alone cannot foster personal care and connection.

Finland’s enduring success may result from factors beyond mere economic support. Helliwell mentioned the national unity forged during Finland’s Winter War from 1939 to 1940, suggesting that external adversity sometimes strengthens community bonds. He noted, “Sometimes the challenge posed externally can bring you together.”

Finland, Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden filled the top four spots again, while Norway ranked seventh. The Netherlands and Israel took fifth and eighth places, respectively. Luxembourg, ranked ninth, and Costa Rica at sixth and Mexico‘s debut at tenth complete the top ten.

Costa Rica and Mexico are notable entrants, marking their first appearances in the top ten, fueled by strong social networks and positive perceptions about their economic futures. “Both countries have strong social networks and strong perceptions about the direction of their economy and confidence in leaders and institutions,” Ron-Levey observed.

In contrast, the United States’ 24th position highlights troubling trends. The report indicates that declining happiness in the U.S. is partially driven by an increasing sense of dissatisfaction among younger individuals. Ron-Levey noted a marked decrease in reported support from friends and family, as well as a lack of optimism regarding future living standards among Americans under 30.

The 2025 World Happiness Report serves as both a celebration of global happiness trends and a critical lens on areas needing improvement, urging a reevaluation of societal values and personal connections as pathways to increased happiness.