World Happiness Report 2025: Here's where the US, UK, and Canada rank and global position

World Happiness Report 2025 has delivered troubling news for the United States, placing the country at 24th place, its lowest rank ever. Just last year, the U.S. ranked 23rd, already an alarming position considering it stood at 15th in 2023. This downward trend reflects a growing sense of dissatisfaction, especially among young Americans.

According to Gallup data used in the World Happiness Report, one key reason behind the U.S. decline is an increase in social isolation. More Americans are dining alone and reporting weaker social ties, which correlates with declining well-being. Young people under 30 have been particularly affected, with many feeling less supported by friends and family and reporting a lack of optimism about their financial future.

Why has the U.S. ranking dropped so sharply?

The reasons behind this decline paint a concerning picture:

• Youth Discontent: Young people in the U.S. feel increasingly disconnected, less supported by family and friends, and more pessimistic about their futures. According to Gallup, the number of young Americans who feel free to make life choices has dropped by 10 percentage points since 2020.
• Financial Stress: Rising financial insecurity and stagnant living standards have further eroded happiness. Many Americans feel the pressure of economic uncertainty, making it harder to maintain optimism.
• Social Isolation: A growing number of Americans dine alone, highlighting the weakening of social bonds. Less community interaction often translates to a lower sense of belonging, contributing to declining well-being.

How Has the U.S. Performed Over the Years?

The decline has been steady and noticeable:

• 2021: 19th place
• 2022: Improved slightly to 16th
• 2023: Reached 15th
• 2024: Dropped to 23rd, marking the first time outside the top 20
• 2025: Fell again to 24th, the lowest ever

Why Are Young Americans Driving This Shift?

The perceptions of young Americans have changed dramatically. Many feel that they lack control over their lives, with freedom and optimism declining over the past four years. As a result, younger generations are feeling more alienated and disillusioned, impacting the overall happiness score of the country.

Which Countries Are the Happiest in 2025?

The Nordic countries continue to dominate the rankings:

• Finland holds the top spot for the 4th consecutive year.
• Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden follow closely behind.
• The consistent success of these nations is tied to strong social structures, high trust levels, and a good work-life balance.

How Did Canada and the UK Fare in 2025?

Canada ranked 18th in the 2025 World Happiness Report, showing a slight decline compared to previous years. The country has faced economic challenges, including rising housing costs and inflation, which have impacted overall well-being. However, Canada still performs better than the U.S. due to its strong healthcare system and social support networks.

The United Kingdom ranked 23rd, just ahead of the U.S., but still lower than in previous years. Factors such as economic uncertainty, post-Brexit challenges, and concerns over mental health and well-being have contributed to this ranking. Young people in the UK, much like their American counterparts, report feeling less optimistic about their future.

Why Are Major Industrial Powers Falling Behind?

For the first time ever, none of the large industrial powers — including the U.S., Canada, and Switzerland — made it into the top 20. This indicates a larger pattern where even developed nations are struggling to maintain high happiness levels.

Can the U.S. Reverse This Trend?

Experts suggest that addressing financial insecurity, rebuilding social connections, and supporting young people’s mental health are essential steps. Without these interventions, the U.S. risks continuing its downward trajectory.

FAQs:

Why did the U.S. rank lower in the 2025 World Happiness Report?
The U.S. dropped due to youth dissatisfaction, financial insecurity, and declining social connections.

Which countries topped the 2025 World Happiness Report?
Finland, Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden retained the top positions.