The Netherlands has climbed to fifth place in the World Happiness Report 2025, scoring 7.306. This upward shift confirms that the Netherlands remains one of the happiest countries in the world, despite global uncertainties. It highlights the unique Dutch blend of happiness, prosperity, and innovation — making the country an attractive destination for living, doing business, and investing.
Geplaatst op 09 april 2025
Why the Netherlands is among the world’s happiest countries
Each year, the World Happiness Report ranks 147 countries based on self-reported happiness levels of their citizens. The ranking is based on six key indicators:
- GDP per capita
- Healthy life expectancy
- Generosity
- Social support
- Freedom to make life choices
- Perception of corruption
For the seventh year in a row, Finland tops the list, followed by Denmark and Iceland. The Netherlands reclaims its fifth-place position, which it also held in earlier years. This year’s theme, “Care and Share”, resonates well with Dutch society, where mutual trust, social cohesion and a strong sense of community are deeply rooted. A striking example: a majority of Dutch people believe a lost wallet would likely be returned — a sign of civic trust and social responsibility.
A strong foundation of economic power and innovation
The Netherlands ranks high not only in happiness, but also across various global indexes in economy, innovation and trade. Highlights include:
- #1 in the production and trade of cut flowers and flower bulbs (WUR-CBS, 2021)
- #1 flower exporter globally (WUR-CBS, 2021)
- #1 in English proficiency worldwide (EF EPI, 2024)
- #2 global exporter of agricultural products (WTO, 2023)
- #4 on the EU Innovation Scoreboard (2024)
- #5 best country to live in (World Happiness Report, 2025)
- #6 largest exporter of goods worldwide (CIA World Factbook, 2024)
- #6 most competitive economy in Europe (WEF, 2024)
- #7 in the Global Innovation Index (GII, 2023)
- #9 in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking (2024)
These achievements paint a picture of a country where high quality of life goes hand in hand with a resilient economy, a strong knowledge base and a forward-looking innovation climate.
Compared to previous years
The Netherlands has consistently ranked in the top ten of the happiness index. After a slight drop in 2024, it returns to fifth place in 2025. This improvement is largely driven by strong social support systems, personal freedom, and high levels of institutional trust. Dutch citizens feel safe and supported — key ingredients for lasting wellbeing.
A future-proof society
The 2025 report confirms that the Netherlands is a resilient society, striking a healthy balance between work, wellbeing and social connection. In a world increasingly facing stress, loneliness and economic uncertainty, the Netherlands is staying on course toward a society where people can thrive.
Its success goes beyond economic prosperity. Public values, shared wellbeing, and collective care all contribute to the nation’s happiness. These are precisely the factors that make the Netherlands attractive not just for its residents, but also for international companies, talents and investors.
Innovation, mobility and international cooperation
The Netherlands’ high position in the World Happiness Report aligns with strong performances in other key areas like innovation and competitiveness. Rankings include:
- #7 in the Global Innovation Index
- #4 in the EU Innovation Scoreboard
- #6 in Europe’s competitiveness ranking
These figures show that wellbeing and innovation reinforce each other. The Netherlands particularly excels in sectors like sustainability, digital transformation, mobility and logistics. It offers a unique ecosystem where government, businesses and knowledge institutions work together on smart solutions for the future.
The Netherlands as an international partner
For international companies and investors, the Netherlands offers an ideal business environment:
- Central location in Europe
- Excellent logistics and infrastructure
- Highly educated, multilingual workforce
- Culture of cooperation and innovation
- High wellbeing and strong work-life balance
Thanks to this combination of strengths, the Netherlands is not only one of the happiest countries in the world, but also one of the most attractive places to do business, live and innovate internationally.
For more information about doing business in the Netherlands: Introducing the Netherlands | smartmobiltyembassy