Once again, Nordic countries dominate the World Happiness Report rankings, but 2026 marks a notable change as for the first time in the report's history, a Latin American country, Costa Rica, enters the top five, registering an impressive rise from 23rd place in 2023 to fourth.
The ranking, compiled by Gallup, the Oxford Well-being Research Centre and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, is based on a three-year average of people's own assessments of life in 140 countries. It also takes into account factors such as GDP, social support, life expectancy, freedom to make decisions, generosity and perceptions of corruption.
Albania is in (86th place), Greece is in (85th place) and Bulgaria is in (84th).
It is worth noting that for the second year in a row, no major English-speaking country is in the top 10, with Australia ranked 15th, the US 23rd, Canada 25th and the UK 29th.
Finland has maintained its top spot for nine out of the last ten years, with residents attributing their well-being largely to the safety and trust that characterizes the society. The ability of children to move independently from a young age, as well as the general feeling that citizens keep their promises, reinforce the sense of stability.
Despite high taxes, citizens believe that the quality of public services – especially in health, education and transport – outweighs the costs. The work environment is characterized by collaboration and limited hierarchy, while contact with nature is a key element of daily life, as even in cities access to parks, the sea or forests is immediate.
Experiencing Finnish culture, such as saunas – with around three million facilities for 5.5 million residents – is considered an integral part of life, while residents themselves recommend a slower, more leisurely way to explore the country.
In second place is Iceland, which is known for its strong social cohesion. Residents say they can rely on each other in difficult times, which is also attributed to the country's historical isolation, where survival required a collective effort. Daily life is shaped by the ability to adapt to difficult conditions, such as long and dark winters. Residents emphasize simple moments, such as coffee, warm pools and social contact. Summer, with almost 24 hours of daylight, significantly increases the feeling of well-being.
Contact with nature remains essential, while the expression “Þetta reddast” is characteristic, capturing the belief that, whatever the conditions, everything will ultimately be fine.
Denmark, in third place, has consistently been one of the highest performing countries. Happiness here is not necessarily tied to outward appearances, but to deep trust between citizens and institutions.
The education system fosters social cohesion, as children from different social classes attend the same public schools, while social interaction and understanding of different ways of life are encouraged. Daily life is characterized by a slow pace and lack of strong pressure, with residents emphasizing balance and quality of life.
Costa Rica is the big surprise in this year's rankings. Despite not performing well in economic indicators or government benefits, citizens report high levels of satisfaction with their lives.
A central element is the concept of community, as well as daily contact with nature. Residents describe a life connected to the village, the sea and social relationships, while freedom of choice increases the feeling of happiness.
Daily life includes activities such as walks on the beach, contact with wildlife, and social interaction, elements that create a strong sense of balance.
In fifth place is Sweden, which has maintained a consistent presence in the top positions in recent years. The country is noted for its balance between a modern urban lifestyle and easy access to nature.
Short distances, both geographically and socially, increase trust and cooperation. The culture of equality is also reflected in the language, with the use of the informal "du" regardless of social status.
Daily life is characterized by a gentler pace, while practices such as “fika” – a break for coffee and conversation – are a key element of social life.
The ranking of the ten happiest countries for 2026 is as follows:
Finland
Iceland
Denmark
Costa Rica
Sweden
Norway
Netherlands
Israel
Luxembourg
Switzerland
Afghanistan remained in 147th and last place in the ranking. The other countries in the bottom places are: Botswana 143rd, Zimbabwe 144th, Malawi 145th and Sierra Leone 146th.
