Planet Earth is home to over 190 countries in total, possessing a total population of over 7 billion people. While the human race is obviously highly diverse in its cultures, economies, and social norms, what would happen if we ranked each one of these countries based on their ability to make their citizens “happy”? While obviously a subjective attempt, the United Nations has put forth its ranking of the worlds “Happiest Countries” as part of its Sustainable Development Solutions Network. Ever wondered what countries the happiest in the world are? It looks like you’ve came to the right place
10. Venezuela
Despite rampant currency inflation in recent years and an unusually low GDP per capita, which comes in at $18,000 per citizen, this South American country comes in at number 20 on our list. Home to the world’s largest oil reserves, Venezuela’s government uses the massive revenues from the sale of petroleum products to provide economic support for its citizens.
9. Luxembourg
This small land-locked country in Western Europe, which comes in at just under 1,000 square miles in size, is home to the 19th happiest people in the world. Nestled between Belgium, Germany, and France, Luxembourg has the second highest GDP per capita in the world. It also boasts large social programs, and is one of the few tri-lingual nations in the world.
8. Ireland
Is it any wonder that the “Emerald Isle” is home to the 18th happiest people on Earth? This primarily Catholic Nation of 6.3 million features breathtaking countrysides, a unique culture, and of course everyone’s favorite beer: Guinness. Ireland is an advanced economy that is centered around software and the financial industries.
7. United States of America
The land of the free and the home of the…happy? Citizens of the United States of America come in at #17 on our list of happiest countries. Much larger than many other countries around the world, the U.S.A’s 320+ million citizens enjoy an advanced economy with a GDP per capita of $53,000.
6. United Arab Emirates
This Middle Eastern country, an amalgamation of 7 separate Emirates, is comprised of 9.2 million citizens and comes in at number 14 on our list. Established in 1971, the U.A.E. boasts one of the highest GDPs per capita in the world thanks to its large oil reserves and focus on tourism. The U.A.E. has made huge investments in order to diversify itself from being solely an oil exporter – which includes being home to the tallest building in the world: the Burj Khalifa.
5. New Zealand
Is it any wonder that this South Pacific island is one of the happiest places on Earth? Found 900 miles east of Australia in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, you might think New Zealands citizens would feel a little isolated – but far from it. A part of the United Kingdom, having been settled by British colonists in the 1800’s, New Zealand boasts a beautiful climate, sea breezes, scenic beaches, and a GDP per capita of over $47,000. Is it any wonder New Zealanders are so happy?
4. Australia
The “Land down under comes” in at number 10 on our list. Known officially as the Commonwealth of Australia, this nation of 23.8 million citizens is officially part of the United Kingdom. Boasting a GDP per capita of over $67,000 and a life expectancy of over 82 years, plus some of the world’s greatest beaches, it’s little wonder that Australia’s citizens are so happy.
3. Iceland
Despite its small population of just 329,000 people, Iceland comes in at number 9 on our list of happiest countries. Located in the Northern Atlantic between Europe and Greenland, this country may not have tropical beaches but its citizens are content with life nevertheless. Supported by a GDP per capita of over $47,000 and strong social programs, Icelanders ranked extremely highly on the U.N.’s ranking of happiest nations.
2. Austria
This central European, and highly mountainous, country of 8.5 million citizens is the 8th happiest place in the world. With a history that stretches back over 1,000 years, Austria is now an advanced economy with an extremely high standard of living. Boasting a GDP per capita of over $50,000, strong social programs, scenic mountain views, and a social market economy.
1. The Netherlands
It isn’t by coincidence that yet another Northern European country comes in as the fourth happiest country in the world. The Netherlands, a relatively small country at just 16,000 square miles, is a densely populated nation and is home to one of the world’s largest ports – the Port of Rotterdam. The Netherlands possesses a population of over 16.8 million and offers its citizens a GDP per capita of over $50,000. This, mixed with its access to Europe and mild climate, obviously makes for a very happy population.
