According to the latest Happy City Index released by the Institute for Quality of Life, Copenhagen, Denmark, was crowned the happiest city on the planet in 2025. It offers more than bike lanes and fairy-tale architecture.

Meanwhile, in a surprising twist, New York City earned the top spot among U.S. cities, outperforming other American metros despite its reputation for being a bit rough around the edges.

The Institute measures global happiness each year by evaluating cities dedicated to fostering joy, well-being, and quality of life. Their analysis draws from 82 unique metrics, ranging from healthcare access and environmental sustainability to public services, education, and inclusive governance. Thousands of residents were also surveyed to provide a people-powered perspective.

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These variables were grouped into six central categories: citizens, governance, environment, economy, health, and mobility. Scores from each were then tallied into an overall happiness index.

As the Institute noted in its findings, the Index is evolving and aims to more accurately reflect urban happiness worldwide.

Copenhagen took first place with an impressive 1,039 points. Its strengths lie in progressive public policy, widespread access to healthcare, a high degree of civic trust, and outstanding environmental credentials.

“Copenhagen places a premium on health and wellness,” the report highlighted. “Every resident is insured, and the city has 4.4 doctors for every 1,000 people. With an average life expectancy of nearly 80 years and a 37-hour workweek, the lifestyle is balanced and sustainable.”

Notably, 69% of all travel in the Danish capital is environmentally friendly, thanks to its heavy investment in green transport infrastructure.

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Trailing Copenhagen were Zurich, Switzerland (993 points), and Singapore (979 points). Another Danish entry, Aarhus, ranked fourth, proving that icy climates don't necessarily freeze out happiness. Rounding out the top five was Antwerp, Belgium (956 points)

As for the U.S., New York City made waves by scoring 902 points, placing it 17th globally and leading all American cities. While it may not be known for cheerful chit-chat, the city's economic clout is a significant factor.

“New York’s role as a global powerhouse in finance, innovation, and culture underpins its high ranking,” the report noted. With a staggering budget of 187.18 billion GBP in 2024 and a GDP per capita of 67,742 GBP, the city supports 2.6% of the U.S. population and boasts a 2.9% growth rate.

It’s also worth noting that NYC remains home to more billionaires than anywhere else — 123 ultra-wealthy residents worth a combined $759 billion — a nod to its economic dominance.

Other U.S. cities making the Happy City Index included:

Minneapolis (#30)
San Diego (#34)
Washington D.C. (#43)
Salt Lake City (#56)

Top 20 Happiest Cities in the World (2025):

1. Copenhagen, Denmark (1039)
2. Zurich, Switzerland (993)
3. Singapore (979)
4. Aarhus, Denmark (958)
5. Antwerp, Belgium (956)
6. Seoul, South Korea (942)
7. Stockholm, Sweden (941)
8. Taipei, Taiwan (936)
9. Munich, Germany (931)
10. Rotterdam, Netherlands (920)
11. Vancouver, Canada (919)
12. Vienna, Austria (918)
13. Paris, France (909)
14. Helsinki, Finland (908)
15. Aalborg, Denmark (906)
16. Berlin, Germany (905)
17. New York, USA (902)
18. Dresden, Germany (893)
19.Brussels, Belgium (887)
20. Geneva, Switzerland (883)