Found By Accident contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of the Amazon links (or other affiliate links), we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See our disclosure policy for more information.
These 5 Cities Rank As The World’s Happiest In 2025, Any Guesses?
Who’s ready to pack their bags and chase some good feelings and happiness? The Happy City Index has released its rankings for the happiest cities in the world for 2025, and it’s time to see who made the top five.
These cities are doing something right – be it fostering community, prioritizing well-being, or maybe just having really excellent coffee. And whatever the secret sauce may be, they’ve got it figured out, and the rest of us should probably take some notes.
Of course, living in one of these urban utopias probably doesn’t guarantee instant happiness (you still have to deal with taxes after all), but hey, a city that promotes a happy life is a solid start, right?
And if you want to see who else made the list of the top 200 places, visit Happy City Index.
What Makes The City Happy?
When it comes to figuring out which cities are basically adult Disneyland (minus the overpriced churros), there’s no single magic formula. Nope, it takes a whopping 82 different indicators to judge who’s truly nailing this whole “happiness” thing.
We’re talking about stuff like income equality, job happiness, and healthcare access – sure, those are the big dogs. But they also look at things like emotional wellbeing, education, inclusivity, and whether your local government is shady or not.
Oh, and don’t forget the basics like pollution levels, crime stats, how easy it is to get around without losing your mind, and whether there are enough parks to picnic in.
Turns out, when a city does well on all those fronts, it’s more than just a nice place to live – it’s a place where you can actually thrive. Think longer, happier lives, fulfilling opportunities… and, yes, spontaneous brunch plans with friends that don’t involve sitting in traffic for 45 minutes.
That’s the kind of happiness these rockstar cities are serving up in 2025.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is basically showing off at this point – and honestly, we’re not mad about it. Denmark already crushes it in life satisfaction rankings, but its capital takes things to a whole new level.
Picture clean air that doesn’t make you question every breath, public transportation that actually shows up on time, and, of course, more bicycles than you can shake a helmet at. The city is a masterclass in how to do sustainability and public health right.
Oh, and corruption? Nearly nonexistent. Trust in government and social institutions runs deep here, which feels like spotting a unicorn in today’s world.
They also have affordable access to healthcare and education that won’t make your wallet cry. And the sense of community is also unbeatable, with Danes often raving about their strong social bonds and that warm, fuzzy sense of belonging.
Don’t Miss in Copenhagen:
Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich might have a reputation as a buttoned-up global financial hub, but don’t be fooled – it’s not all suits and spreadsheets. This city knows how to sprinkle some livability magic into the mix.
Fun fact, Zurich boasts one of the lowest crime rates on the planet and a healthcare system so good it might make your insurance provider blush.
Public transportation? It’s not just efficient… it’s a scenic tour disguised as a commute. And don’t even get me started on their obsession with punctuality and order (seriously, the trains are like Swiss clocks).
Toss in top-notch education, solid job opportunities, and easy escapes to lakes and mountains, and you’ve got a place where everything just works. Peaceful, prosperous, and a dash posh.
Don’t Miss in Zurich:
Singapore
Singapore is that overachiever in class – you know, the one who’s good at everything and somehow still cool about it. Sure, it’s one of the most densely populated places on Earth, but it’s freakishly organized, stupidly clean, and yes, so safe you could probably leave your wallet on a park bench and come back to find it waiting for you.
A big win here is government transparency. They’re all about thinking ahead, whether it’s tackling climate change, dominating in tech, or apparently deciding everyone deserves decent healthcare.
Even with all the skyscrapers and urban vibes, Singapore manages to sneak in greenery everywhere as well with vertical gardens, lush parks, and enough trees to make the concrete jungle feel less…concrete-y.
Don’t Miss in Singapore:
Aarhus, Denmark
Okay, so Aarhus might not roll off the tongue like Copenhagen, but who needs name recognition when you’re this cool?
Denmark’s second-largest city brings all the same perks as its famous sibling who made spot #1 – think impeccable healthcare, free education, squeaky-clean streets, and that “I-can-leave-my-bike-unlocked-here” level of safety.
What really sets Aarhus apart is its youthful energy. With its swarms of students, the city is buzzing with creativity, cultural events, and that “hey, we’ve got big ideas” kind of innovation.
The sense of community? Strong. The love for jaw-dropping design and art? Even stronger. And the nature scene? Beaches, forests, harbors… it’s Danish perfection.
Don’t Miss in Aarhus:
Antwerp, Belgium
Antwerp is the perfect European city, blending old-world charm with modern-day necessitites like it’s no big deal. And it’s not just livable – it’s one of Europe’s happiest cities, too.
Want great public services? Check. Practically nonexistent crime rate? Double-check. Support for arts and culture? Of course… and it’s like the city is showing off at this point, but we will keep going anyway.
Education and healthcare? Solid. Green spaces and bike lanes? They’ve got those locked down too, making everyone just a little healthier and smugger about their eco-friendly lifestyle.
Plus, the economy is thriving, thanks to being one of Europe’s busiest ports. But the city still manages to feel cozy and welcoming, like that one friend who’s somehow good at everything.
Locals rave about the cultural diversity, crazy-good food, and the whole work-life balance that doesn’t make you cry into your coffee mug thing.
Don’t Miss in Antwerp:
Where Does The First U.S. City Land?
While you might think sunny San Diego or laid-back Seattle would crack the top 10 on the 2025 happiest cities list, surprise! The first U.S. city to make the cut is none other than New York City, swaggering in at spot 17.
Sure, it’s not exactly the poster child for peace and quiet, but NYC’s got some heavy hitters on its side. World-class healthcare? Yep. Green spaces galore, thanks to Central Park and friends? Obviously. And the cultural scene? Forget about it – Broadway, museums, art galleries – where do we even begin?
Plus, there’s the joy of walking everywhere, mixing with a wildly diverse crowd, and chasing endless career opportunities. For all its glorious chaos, the city offers something special – a kind of happiness fueled by ambition, creativity, and the electric buzz of possibilities.
Like Our Content? Make sure to join our newsletter for all the latest on outdoor adventures (and a FREE STARGAZING GUIDE). Click here to sign up!
