US Hits New Low in World Happiness Report

The United States has hit an all-time low ranking in the annual World Happiness Report, dropping eight spots to 23rd place.

Unlike countries like Finland and Denmark, which consistently rank among the world's happiest, the U.S. has not been able to maintain such high standings.

Numerous studies have revealed that Americans are feeling downcast about various issues, including loneliness, economic concerns, and dissatisfaction with the country's political leadership.

This marks the first time in the 12-year history of the report that the U.S. has not been listed among the top 20 happiest nations globally.

Gallup, whose data contributes to the World Happiness Report, pointed to "Americans under 30 feeling worse about their lives" as a significant factor behind the substantial decline.

Lara Aknin, an editor of the report, highlighted that today's younger generation reports feeling less supported by their social circles, experiencing reduced freedom in life choices, heightened stress levels, and lower satisfaction with their living conditions, as reported by Axios.

Moreover, people under 30 express diminished confidence in the government and perceive increased levels of corruption, according to the report's findings.

Interestingly, the report indicates that older individuals are now experiencing greater happiness than their younger counterparts in North America, a trend that differs from many other regions worldwide.

In addition to these factors, many Americans have expressed low levels of trust in the political system and concerns about potential political unrest and violence.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the prevalent issue of loneliness among America's younger generations.

Furthermore, the U.S. has been grappling with inflation rates impacting various sectors, including dining out and the real estate market.

World’s top 25 happiest countries, ranked:

1. Finland

2. Denmark

3. Iceland

4. Sweden

5. Israel

6. Netherlands

7. Norway

8. Luxembourg

9. Switzerland

10. Australia

11. New Zealand

12. Costa Rica

13. Kuwait

14. Austria

15. Canada

16. Belgium

17. Ireland

18. Czechia

19. Lithuania

20. United Kingdom

21. Slovenia

22. United Arab Emirates

23. United States

24. Germany

25. Mexico