For yet another year, Scandinavian countries dominate the World Happiness Report rankings, however, in 2026 a remarkable development is recorded, as for the first time in the history of the report, a Latin American country, Costa Rica, enters the top five, recording an impressive rise from 23rd place in 2023 to fourth.
The ranking, compiled by Gallup, the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, is based on a three-year average of citizens' 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.
The position of Greece
It is noted that Greece is in 85th place on the relevant list, between Bulgaria (84) and Albania (86), accumulating 5.697 points in the evaluation system. Our country was in 64th place last year, while Cyprus, from 50th place, fell to 62nd.
It is noteworthy that for the second consecutive year, no major English-speaking country is in the top 10, with Australia ranked 15th, the US 23rd, Canada 25th and the United Kingdom 29th.
Finland is back in first place
Finland has maintained its top spot for nine of the last ten years, with residents attributing their well-being mainly to the safety and trust that characterizes 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 feeling 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 cooperation and limited hierarchy, while contact with nature is a key element of everyday life, as even in cities there is direct access to parks, the sea or forests.
Experiencing Finnish culture, such as the sauna – with around three million facilities for 5,5 million residents – is considered an integral part of life, while the residents themselves recommend a slower and calmer way of exploring the country.
Iceland
In second place is Iceland, which stands out 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. In the summer, with light lasting almost 24 hours, the feeling of well-being is significantly enhanced.
Contact with nature remains crucial, while the phrase "Ètta reddast" is characteristic, which captures the belief that, whatever the circumstances, everything will eventually be fine.
Denmark remains in the top ten
Denmark, in third place, has consistently been one of the top performers. Happiness here is not necessarily linked to outward appearances, but to deep-rooted trust among citizens and in institutions.
The education system strengthens 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.
Everyday life is characterized by a slow pace and an absence of intense pressure, with residents emphasizing balance and quality of life.
The surprise of Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the big surprise in this year's ranking. Despite not performing as well in economic indicators or government benefits, citizens report high levels of satisfaction with their lives.
The concept of community is central, as is daily contact with nature. Residents describe a life connected to the countryside, the sea and social relationships, while freedom of choice enhances 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.
Sweden rounds out the top five.
In fifth place is Sweden, which has maintained a consistent presence in the top spots in recent years. The country stands out for its balance between modern urban lifestyle and easy access to nature.
Short distances, both geographically and socially, foster trust and cooperation. The culture of equality is even reflected in the language, with the use of the informal "du" regardless of social status.
Everyday life is characterized by a more relaxed pace, while practices such as "fika" – a break for coffee and conversation – are a key element of social life.
The top ten of 2026
The ranking of the ten happiest countries for 2026 is as follows:
Φινλανδία
Iceland
Denmark
Costa Rica
Sweden
Νορβηγία
the Netherlands
Israel
Luxembourg
Switzerland
Afghanistan remained in 147th and last place in the ranking. The other countries in the last places are: Botswana 143rd, Zimbabwe 144th, Malawi 145th and Sierra Leone 146th.
Source: protothema.gr
