Ever wandered through a city and felt a general atmosphere of happiness and positivity? There are places all over the world where contentment is simply a part of the daily routine, and it turns out it’s for all sorts of reasons. From small, quiet cities to busy, loud capitals, each one has its own ways of keeping spirits high. These places aren’t just happy by chance, the happiness is often rooted in culture, community, and lifestyle. In this list, we’ll take a look at some of the world’s happiest cities, and find out what it is that makes these cities so full of positivity.
Oslo, Norway
Norwegians in Oslo have it good, and they know it. In Oslo, happiness isn’t just a concept; it’s a lifestyle. They’ve got this work-life balance thing down to a tee, and are surrounded by incredible natural beauty. What’s not to love?
Citizens of Oslo get to hike the hills, sail on the Oslofjord, or just soak up the peaceful atmosphere of their city. Their love for the outdoors and ‘friluftsliv’ (open-air living) is contagious. Plus, they’re all about looking out for one another – with the locals being some of the friendliest in the world.
Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki’s residents are masters of the art of living well. It’s like the city was designed for happiness. It’s got this amazing balance – stylish but not pretentious, urban but surrounded by nature.
And the saunas – they’re not just a place to sweat, they’re like a Finnish sanctuary. The city is known for its laid-back energy, and that’s thanks to the locals who value a stress-free lifestyle. Spend a day here and you’ll see why the Finns are some of the happiest people around.
London, UK
Rainy London might seem like an unexpected pick for the world’s happiest cities, but there’s a unique charm to it that sets it apart. It’s big, it’s buzzing, and it’s busy – and that’s all part of its magic. There’s something for everyone – you’ve got the endless shows, the extensive nightlife, plenty of parks to relax in, and a never-ending selection of pubs, restaurants, and cafes to explore.
And the culture? It’s incredibly diverse. Every day in London is an adventure in itself, with its vibrant spirit making it a truly special place that’s not just about the hustle and bustle.
Los Angeles, USA
Think about LA, and you think sunshine, beaches, and dreams coming true, right? That’s exactly what makes the people here so happy. In Los Angeles, it’s all about living in the moment. Whether they’re hiking up in the hills or at the beach, everyone’s finding their own kind of joy.
And it’s not all about Hollywood – LA’s got this cool mix of different cultures that makes life here really exciting. Every day is a new opportunity to explore, find new spots (including a whole host of hidden gems), and enjoy.
Toronto, Canada
In Toronto, it’s like everyone’s from everywhere, and they all bring a piece of their culture to this amazing city. The residents here are known for being some of the friendliest in the world, always ready with a smile and a helping hand – classic Canadians, right?
The atmosphere in Toronto is diverse and vibrant, and their regular festival celebrations reflect the world in one city. Torontonians really have a knack for making everyone feel at home. The result? An upbeat and inclusive community.
Montreal, Canada
In Montreal, every day feels like a celebration. The people here just love life – you can see it in the way they enjoy their city. It feels like there’s a party on every street, with always something fun going on. And the food? Oh, it’s amazing – a mix of French class and Canadian comfort.
In Montreal, people recognize it’s all about the happiness in the small things, like a good meal or a laugh with friends. It’s a city with a big heart, and that’s what keeps everyone smiling. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that compared to other major Canadian cities, the rent is relatively cheap.
Jonkoping, Sweden
Ah, another Scandinavian entry – and there’s still many more to come. In what seems to be a fairly consistent Scandinavian trait, for residents in Jonkoping, happiness is all about living close to nature.
The residents here are super relaxed and friendly, enjoying life by the beautiful Lake Vättern. They love taking it easy and are always ready for a fika – that’s a coffee break with a side of chit-chat. It’s the kind of place where you just naturally slow down and enjoy the good things in life.
San Francisco, USA
San Francisco manages to keep its residents smiling – which is impressive considering its famously steep rents (yes, pun intended). It’s not just the famous Golden Gate Bridge or the cable cars – there’s just something about the city’s whole atmosphere.
San Francisco is all about innovation and embracing everyone. Oh, and we can’t forget, San Francisco also has an incredibly strong job market, especially in the tech industry. It’s that blend of opportunity, culture, and community that keeps the smiles going.
New York, USA
New York is a city that’s always on the go, and New Yorkers tend to have the ability to always find excitement in their fast-paced life. So, whether it’s catching a live show, exploring a new neighborhood, or just enjoying a slice of famous New York pizza, there’s always some form of joy to be found.
And of course, the sense of achievement here is real; if you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere, right? That’s got to be a pretty happy feeling – a true encapsulation of the American dream!
Sydney, Australia
Sydney locals somehow manage to be both incredibly laid-back but also full of energy at the same time. And this isn’t particularly surprising: they can easily head over to the famous Bondi beach for a swim or a surf, or chill with a beer at a beach bar, and even just soak up the sun whenever they want.
The people here are super friendly – always up for a chat or a laugh. But the city’s not just about chilling; it hosts a load of festivals, dishes up amazing food, and, of course, there’s stunning shows in the Opera House. It’s no wonder the residents of Sydney are among the happiest in the world, it really is the kind of city where you can’t help but feel lucky to be there.
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is commonly thought of as a city that is both being cool and calm – essentially, a city that has it together. It seems to effortlessly strike the perfect balance between urban space and green space. The locals here are all about ‘lagom’ – not too little, not too much, just right.
There’s a culture of working hard but also making time for what’s important, like family, friends, and fun. Oh, and we can’t forget the city’s commitment to sustainability and equality which is often praised by residents as another source of their contentment.
Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland is where you get the best of both worlds – on one side there’s a buzzing city life, and on the other, there’s the incredible harbors. It’s called the ‘City of Sails’ for a reason – it seems like every person who lives there owns a boat.
Auckland locals tend to love a lifestyle that’s both energetic and relaxed – perhaps it’s sailing in the morning, and then heading for an impromptu chilled lunch in the city in the afternoon. It’s this mix of laid-back and lively that makes the residents of Auckland some of the happiest around.
Aarhus, Denmark
Aarhus is like Denmark’s hidden gem. This city is the perfect mix of youthful energy and historical depth. You’ve got students enjoying their college years, bringing in a lively vibe, and then there’s the calming old town, which is like stepping back in time. The locals love their city – whether it’s hanging out in one of the many cafes, enjoying a bike ride, or attending on of the multitude of cultural events.
But what really stands out in Aarhus is the full appreciation of the Danish mantra of how to live life – ‘hygge’ – which is all about finding joy in cozy, everyday moments. And in Aarhus, that mantra is really embodied to the fullest, making it a really happy place to live.
Bergen, Norway
Bergen is like a breath of fresh air – literally. Surrounded by mountains and fjords, it’s a city that is simply in love with the outdoors. There’s a strong sense of community, with local festivals and markets being a big part of city life.
And let’s not forget the Norwegian love for ‘koselig’ – which basically means creating a warm, cozy atmosphere. Bergen’s focus on well-being and community is what makes it not just a beautiful postcard-worthy destination, but also a genuinely happy place to call home.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Ah, Amsterdam, with its iconic canals and narrow houses – it’s a city with a character all of its own. Here, life moves at the pace of a leisurely bike ride, and there’s a clear sense of freedom and creativity. The city is laid-back and has a really strong community vibe.
So, be it hanging out in a café, a coffeeshop, or cycling along the canals, life in Amsterdam is all about enjoying the moment alongside the community. Not to mention, locals love the sustainable lifestyle that the city promotes. This atmosphere, which encompasses real sense of communal understanding and togetherness, is what makes Amsterdam a truly, truly happy place to live.
Washington D.C., USA
Did you know that D.C. is not just about politics? There’s a whole world beyond the White House. The residents here love enjoying the gorgeous cherry blossoms in spring and getting their nature fix at Rock Creek Park.
The city’s got a cool and composed intellectual feeling to it, mixed with a passionate community spirit. Museums, monuments, markets – you name it, D.C.’s got it. Living here, the residents are constantly surrounded by history and culture. Now that’s a pretty good reason to feel happy.
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, well, where do we start? This incredible city is often referred to as Mother Nature’s favorite child. The residents are literally living in nature’s playground – with mountains and oceans all in one place. And unsurprisingly, the locals here tend to be outdoorsy types – think morning jogs by the water and weekend hikes.
But it’s not all about nature; the city’s skyscrapers, modernity, and cultural mix make it a haven for those who want a bit of everything. Food, festivals, arts – they’ve got it all. It must be this blend of nature and culture that keeps spirits high in Vancouver.
Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is a fabulous city – it’s super clean and organized, but don’t be fooled, there’s lots of fun to be had too. The locals really value quality, whether it’s taking a walk by the lake or enjoying a hot chocolate in a local cafe. And the mountains? Well, they’re just a short drive away.
There’s a real sense of contentment in the air, probably because everything in the city just works so well. Plus, with that option to be able to ski whenever, and all that delicious chocolate and cheese around, who wouldn’t be happy?
Wellington, New Zealand
Ah, Wellington, this city is the coolest little capital. If you’ve ever visited, you’ll likely have noticed that despite it being small, it’s absolutely full of character. It’s cozy, surrounded by water and beautiful nature with every part of the city just a stone’s throw from a beach or a hill to hike.
The people in Wellington are friendly and, wow do they love their coffee – it’s like a whole culture. Wellington’s got this great mix of being relaxed but also full of life. No wonder it’s one of the happiest little capitals in the world.
Brisbane, Australia
Forever summer? That’s what it feels like living in Brisbane. For residents it can feel living a big, sunny, outdoor party. Sure, everyone has their jobs and work to do, but generally, people here are really laid-back, and always ready for a beach day or a chilled barbecue (or a barbie, if you want to get authentic) with their friends whenever possible.
And when the sun goes down, the city has a pretty great nightlife scene too. Oh, and it’s more affordable to live in than other big cities like Melbourne or Sydney. That’s got to add to that sunny disposition, right?
Canberra, Australia
Canberra is the often overlooked capital of Australia, forgotten in favor of Sydney or Brisbane, but this city is a bit of a low key gem. It’s not just a political city; it’s a actually full of nature and culture. Here, the locals enjoy a perfect blend of city living and outdoor adventures.
Imagine weekends with days filled with bike rides around Lake Burley Griffin or and evenings exploring the festival scene or nightlife. And the community vibe in Canberra is just so welcoming. Truly, Canberra is one of those cities where happiness just seems to comes naturally.
Manchester, UK
Manchester is a city known to have a heart as big as its history. It’s got a legendary music scene, passionate football fans, and the residents share a strong stance of solidarity and support for each other. The locals are famously friendly and resilient, and they take a massive amount of pride in their city’s strength and togetherness.
While the weather might not be anything to get excited about, this city is just absolutely full of energy. From the busy city center to the extensive green spaces, Manchester offers a great city lifestyle alongside a genuine sense of community, making it a happy place to call home.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is the epitome of Scandinavian cool, it’s a place where happiness feels like it’s literally part of the city’s DNA. The Danes’ famous concept of ‘hygge’ – finding joy in simplicity – is clear everywhere. The city is full of style, sustainability, and smiles, and there’s a real commitment to maintaining a strong work-life balance.
Whether biking around (everyone’s biking in Copenhagen), chilling in a café, or hanging out by the canal, there’s just a real sense of contentment. The residents find happiness in truly living that ‘hygge’ lifestyle.
Paris, France
Ah, Paris – it’s not just for lovers; it’s also for generally happy people. Yes, it’s a busy place to live, but Parisians really do know how to enjoy life. Parisian residents, despite their lifestyle, make. sure to take time to enjoy the finer things in life.
Be it taking themselves out for a coffee at a local cafe, going for a casual lunch time walk by the Seine, or just soaking in all that art and history. In fact, in Paris, life is an art, and finding joy in the small things is what makes it one of the happiest cities in the world.
Eskilstuna, Sweden
Ever heard of Eskilstuna? It’s a picture perfect little city in Sweden where happiness and sustainability go hand in hand. The residents are super eco-conscious, and their innovative recycling system is ahead of most cities – and that’s definitely something to smile about.
It’s not just about being green though; the city’s setting along the beautiful river add to the feel-good factor. Life here is a bit slower, but that’s what makes it so special. In Eskilstuna, it’s all about enjoying the now and taking care of the planet.
Vaughan, Canada
Vaughan is like Toronto’s friendly next-door neighbor. It’s got all the perks of a big city but with a close-knit community feel. Here, it’s all about family, friends, and festivals.
The cultural diversity in Vaughan is just amazing, and the locals are super proud of their multicultural community, and why wouldn’t they be? It makes every day a celebration of cultures. Plus, with all the parks and community centers, there’s always something fun to do.
Berlin, Germany
Oh, Berlin! It’s an iconic city, known for being one that never sleeps. The Berliners? They’re open-minded, creative, and always up for a good time. Be that exploring the city’s infamous nightlife or simply chilling with a stein, there’s an infectious energy here.
Many of the locals say their favorite thing about the city is the people – and it’s really not hard to see why. To top this all of, it’s also got a fantastic public transport system. With great people, and great transport to bring them closer – well, that makes for a pretty happy combination.
Lapeenranta, Finland
You may not have heard of Lappeenranta, but this little Finnish city is big on happiness. It’s positioned next to a gorgeous lake – so unsurprisingly, the locals tend to have a love for being outdoors and are super passionate about sustainability.
It’s a city with a youthful energy, thanks to its university. And of course, any Finnish city on this list should not come as a surprise, given that Finland has ranked No. 1 as the happiest country in the world for the past 5 years in a row.
Geneva, Switzerland
Nestled between the Alps and Jura mountains, Geneva is a central hub for ski goers. Not only does it offer incredible views, it’s also a great basepoint for those who enjoy heading up to the snowy mountains. The residents here tend to have a love for the finer things in life – from luxury shopping to luxury weekend ski breaks.
As well as being fantastically located, it has beautiful parks, world-class museums, and the stunning Lake Geneva. With all of these offerings, it’s no wonder the locals are so content.
Denver, USA
Imagine waking up with a view of the Rockies, then heading into a city packed with arts, craft breweries, and some seriously good food – well, that’s the life of a Denver resident. Locals are generally known for making the most out of life – be that hiking, skiing, or just enjoying a sunny day in the park.
And that spirit extends into the night with its lively music scene. There’s no question that this city has so much to explore. Perhaps that’s the secret to the happiness of the residents in Denver – constant exploration, and the amenities to be able to live their life to the fullest.
Singapore, Singapore
Singapore is a place where the future meets tradition. Step into Singapore and you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a world where everything works perfectly. The streets are clean, the gardens are green, and the food? It’s amazing.
There’s this amazing mix of cultures, and it shows in everything from festivals to the food scene. And despite all the hustle and bustle, there’s a sense of peace and order that’s hard to find anywhere else. Living in Singapore is like being in a constant state of wow – it’s no wonder the locals are so happy.
Groningen, Netherlands
Ever heard of Groningen? It’s the Netherlands’ hidden gem where life is laid back, and revolves around bike lanes and coffee shops (the cafe kind!). The city’s got a young heart, thanks to its student population, creating this energetic yet chill atmosphere.
It’s compact, super friendly, and everything’s within biking distance. Locals love the ease and the community feel of the city. Yes, it’s not as famous as Amsterdam, but Groningen’s cool, relaxed vibe makes it a really happy place to be.
Bern, Switzerland
Bern is like a real life storybook city. The residents enjoy a high quality of life, with easy access to some of the most beautiful places in Switzerland. The pace of life here is just right – relaxed but never boring. It’s surrounded by some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Switzerland, which the locals absolutely love.
It’s a city where the history is apparent, but it still has all the modern comforts anyone could ask for. There’s just something about the city’s vibe that brings contentment – it’s a perfect mix of history, nature, and a laid-back lifestyle.
Boston, USA
There’s always something happening in Boston, whether it’s a baseball game, a festival, or just a lively discussion over a beer or two. Bostonians are notoriously proud of where they live; they love their city’s history and its present.
And the city’s green spaces? They’re perfect for a breather. It’s another city that is like living in a history book but with all the modern perks. The energy of the locals is infectious, and it keeps everyone on their toes – in a good way!
The Hague, Netherlands
Living in The Hague is like being in an exclusive club that knows how to keep things classy yet fun. For locals here, it’s all about embracing the best of both worlds – they’ve got the royal palaces and international courts, and then there’s the beach right nearby.
Residents have a real love for how their city blends maturity and elegance with a laid-back lifestyle, and they love the unique mix of sophistication and simplicity in their everyday lives.
Milton Keynes, UK
Ok, hear us out on this one. Ask anyone from Milton Keynes, and they’ll tell you it’s more than just a town – it’s a community. The residents love the unique layout of their town, with its blend of modernity and green space. You’ll often hear them bragging about how everything is just a bike ride away.
They love the ease of getting around, and the mindset of continuous improvement that seems to be part of the town’s DNA. For them, living in Milton Keynes is like being part of an experiment that actually worked out – just don’t ask them about their ‘magic roundabout’!
Melbourne, Australia
Talk to a Melbourne local and you’ll quickly catch onto their love for their city. They’ll speak about it as if they’ve hit the jackpot – great coffee, amazing food, and a sports scene that’s pretty much unmatched. The locals here have mastered living a balanced life.
One minute they’re working, the next they’re soaking up the arts, and then suddenly they’re cheering at a cricket match or relaxing at a beachside bar. They’re proud of Melbourne’s inclusive culture, and they’ll eagerly share their favorite spots and hidden gems with anyone who asks.
Bristol, UK
Bristol is a city that’s effortlessly cool and incredibly welcoming. It’s known for its vibrant street art scene (Banksy’s hometown!), busy harborside, and a music scene that’s second to none. In Bristol, it’s not about being cool; it’s all about being real.
The community vibe here is strong, and people are super passionate about green living. From its colorful houses to its amazing food scene, and its easy access for day trips to other nearby cities, it’s no surprise that Bristol is known as one of the happiest cities in the UK.
Aalborg, Denmark
In Aalborg, friendliness isn’t just an attitude; it’s a way of life. The city is absolutely full with cultural hotspots, yet it never loses its cozy, small-town feel. Imagine wandering through streets lined with history, then suddnely finding yourself in a new art space.
And the best part? The locals always have time for a ‘hyggelig’ (comforting) chat. It’s this perfect balance of tradition and trendiness that makes Aalborg not just a beautiful place to visit, but for the residents, a genuinely joyful place to live.
Saint Augustin de Desmaures, Canada
Ever heard of Saint Augustin de Desmaures? If you haven’t, you should bump it to the top of your vacation wishlist. It’s a beautiful little city near Quebec, and it’s as lovely as it sounds. Think beautiful landscapes, super welcoming locals, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s small but it’s got everything that could be needed, and also it’s just a hop away from big city life.
The locals here focus on enjoying the outdoors and living a down to earth and peaceful life. Though it’s growing as a tourist destination, it still feels like Saint Augustin de Desmaures is in its own happy little bubble.
