The World’s Five Happiest Cities for 2025
As we seek fulfillment in life, the environment we inhabit plays a crucial role in our overall happiness. To explore what defines a “happy city,” the Institute for the Quality of Life has released its 2025 Happy City Index. This comprehensive index evaluates 82 indicators under six categories: Citizens, Governance, Environment, Economy, Health, and Mobility, assessing the various factors that enhance quality of life for residents.
This year, instead of crowning a single “happiest city,” the index has identified a distinguished group of 31 cities that meet exemplary standards in all metrics. Here are the details of the top five cities that have stood out in the rankings:
| Rank | City | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Copenhagen | Denmark |
| 2 | Zurich | Switzerland |
| 3 | Singapore | Singapore |
| 4 | Aarhus | Denmark |
| 5 | Antwerp | Belgium |
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
Consistently ranked among the happiest places globally, Copenhagen tops this year’s list, excelling in both the Environment and Economy categories. Local resident Mari-Anne Daura highlights the city’s vibrant cultural scene, with various free events such as the Copenhagen Light Festival and Distortion Street Parties that enrich community engagement. Residents also benefit from superb biking infrastructure, which promotes safe, eco-friendly transport throughout the city.
2. Zurich, Switzerland
Second on the list, Zurich stands out for its cleanliness, safety, and efficient public services. According to resident Raquel Matos Gonçalves, the city is optimized for family life, excelling in areas like public transport and cleanliness that alleviate daily stress. The highly structured environment fosters a consistently pleasant lifestyle for residents.
3. Singapore
Singapore shines brightly with its robust health metrics and public safety measures. Resident Hwee-Boon Yar notes that policies addressing the cost of living have improved overall quality for families. The city’s blend of efficiency and multicultural inclusivity offers a vast array of experiences, allowing residents to seamlessly transition from business to leisure activities.
4. Aarhus, Denmark
Known as Denmark’s “world’s smallest big city,” Aarhus combines urban amenities with a community-oriented atmosphere. Local resident Carla Niña Pornelos emphasizes how happiness is integrated into everyday experiences, thanks to community-driven events and significant sustainability initiatives, creating a harmonious living environment.
5. Antwerp, Belgium
Rounding out the top five, Antwerp offers a perfect blend of charm and livability. Resident Grace Carter appreciates the efficient public transport system and the city’s commitment to progressive policies that support families and sustainability. Antwerp is also marked by its vibrant cultural scene and marked green spaces, encouraging residents to enjoy life fully and not just work through it.
As cities strive for excellence in enhancing the well-being of their citizens, these top five locations demonstrate the powerful impact of thoughtful urban policies and community engagement on happiness.
