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Finland Tops World Happiness Rankings for Eighth Year as U.S. Hits Record Low

The 2025 World Happiness Report highlights Finland's enduring success and the U.S.'s challenges with social isolation and declining trust.

The Netherlands comes in at No. 5 in the 2025 rankings, right after four Nordic nations. Amsterdam is pictured.
Finland, with people gathered here in Helsinki, is ranked the world's happiest country for the eighth year in a row.
1. Finland is the world's happiest country for the eighth year in a row, according to the 2025 World Happiness Report. Liuskasaari island is pictured.
The United States earned its lowest rank yet in this year's World Happiness Report. Chicago's Magnificent Mile is pictured here.

Overview

  • Finland has been ranked the happiest country globally for the eighth consecutive year, with Nordic nations dominating the top spots.
  • The U.S. fell to 24th place, its lowest ranking ever, driven by social isolation, reduced trust, and fewer shared social experiences.
  • Costa Rica and Mexico entered the top 10 for the first time, emphasizing the role of strong social bonds in fostering happiness.
  • The report underscores the critical importance of social trust, kindness, and shared experiences, such as dining together, in enhancing well-being.
  • Happiness inequality within countries has grown over the past two decades, while inequality between countries has remained stable.