The Netherlands ranks #5 in the 2025 World Happiness Report

Who landed in the top 5 in 2025

The World Happiness Report is out, and the Netherlands claimed the fifth position among the world’s happiest countries, climbing up one spot from 2024. The top rankings have shown consistency, with Finland retaining its leading position as the "Happiest Country in the World'' for the eighth consecutive year, followed by Denmark and then Iceland.

The annual ranking evaluates 147 countries with data from Gallup, the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre, and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network used to compile the rankings. The report examines six key factors contributing to happiness: GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, generosity, social support, freedom, and perceptions of corruption. 

The Netherlands consistently scores well in these areas, with a total score of 7.306, with strong social trust and a well-developed infrastructure. This year’s theme, “caring and sharing,” emphasised the role of community engagement in happiness. The Dutch excelled in this category, particularly in their belief that lost wallets would be returned—highlighting a deep sense of trust in society.

Here are the top 5 happiest countries for 2025, according to the report:

1. Finland
2. Denmark
3. Iceland 
4. Sweden
5. The Netherlands

Global trends and Amsterdam’s role

The 2025 report noted declining happiness in major industrialised nations, with traditional economic powerhouses like the UK, US, France, and Germany failing to make the top 20. Meanwhile, Amsterdam’s focus on sustainability, innovation, and community well-being continues to set an example for other global cities—offering a high quality of life that attracts both residents and businesses alike. 

The Dutch capital, known for its balance between work and leisure, plays a key role in the high happiness ranking, offering a mix of economic opportunity, green spaces, and social cohesion.

Read all about the thriving key sectors contributing to innovation in Amsterdam