What makes a city truly joyful to live in? According to the 2025 Happy City Index by the Institute for the Quality of Life, happiness goes beyond smiling faces—it’s built into policies, infrastructure, and public services. The index assessed 82 happiness indicators across six pillars: Citizens, Governance, Environment, Economy, Health, and Mobility. While no single city was crowned the happiest, 31 standout locations earned “Gold City” status. Here’s a look at the top five in the world’s happiest cities 2025 and what makes them leaders in urban wellbeing.
1. Copenhagen, Denmark: Leading the World’s Happiest Cities in 2025
Topping the Happy City Index, Copenhagen leads with high scores in sustainability, economic opportunity, and citizen engagement. Known for its extensive green spaces, waste management, and innovation, the city creates a balance between quality of life and modern living.
Resident Mari-Anne Daura praises the cultural vibrancy. “There’s always something happening—from street parties to public festivals. It’s easy to feel part of a living, breathing community.” Aaron Wertheimer highlights the city’s excellent transport. “Cycling across the Hans Christian Andersen bridge offers a unique perspective on the city’s beauty and design.”
2. Zurich, Switzerland: A Top Contender Among 2025’s Happiest Cities
Ranked second in the world’s happiest cities 2025, Zurich stands out for its high quality of life, low stress levels, and civic engagement. The city scores particularly well in governance and citizen wellbeing.
Resident Raquel Matos Gonçalves notes Zurich’s family-friendliness: “From safe streets to efficient public transport, Zurich makes parenting feel easier.” Amelie Guiot adds, “It’s clean, reliable, and structured—everything works as expected, which reduces everyday stress.”
3. Singapore: Health, Safety, and Harmony
Singapore is known for its blend of futuristic innovation and cultural inclusivity. It excelled in the newly added Health category of the 2025 index due to its public health initiatives and safety protocols.
Resident Hwee-Boon Yar points to Singapore’s public housing policy as a key factor in national contentment. “Many citizens have a home that also serves as an asset,” she said. Business owner Samuel Huang adds, “Singapore lets you enjoy both fast-paced city life and tranquil evenings by the bay—all within minutes.”
4. Aarhus, Denmark: Small City, Big Joy
Denmark’s second-largest city, Aarhus, combines small-town charm with top-tier services. It performed exceptionally in Environment, Health, and Citizens metrics, thanks to community-focused policies.
Resident Carla Niña Pornelos says, “Happiness in Aarhus isn’t about extravagance—it’s baked into everyday experiences like cycling to a rooftop dinner.” Local Mathias Steen notes, “After a long winter, spring awakens the city. Parks, canal bars, and harbour baths buzz with life.”
5. Antwerp, Belgium: Livability in a Compact Package
Antwerp rounds out the top five in the world’s happiest cities 2025. Its success lies in a blend of cultural heritage, reliable infrastructure, and forward-thinking policies.
Resident Grace Carter explains, “What surprised me most is how green and culturally rich Antwerp is. It’s efficient, but it also leaves room for joy.” Her advice to visitors? “Skip the museums and head to the Theaterplein market—it’s where Antwerp’s spirit really shines.”
What We Can Learn from the World’s Happiest Cities
These cities share common themes: inclusive governance, well-maintained green spaces, cultural investment, and reliable public transport. But more than that, they prove that happiness isn’t a luxury—it’s a result of intentional urban planning and policies that put people first.
