General information

Top 10 – Ranking of the Best Countries to Live in Europe – Where is it Worth Emigrating?

In March, the new World Happiness Report 2024 was published. It is a ranking of the happiest countries in the world. We present the top 10 – the ranking of the best countries to live in Europe.

Exactly 11 years ago, on June 28, 2012, the UN General Assembly, through resolution A/RES/66/281, established the International Day of Happiness, which is celebrated on March 20. Every year, along with the celebration of this holiday, a new World Happiness Report is released. This year, the ranking took into account 150 countries, and the entire research was conducted under the supervision of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network.

What factors determine happiness?

GDP per capita
Social support
Healthy Life Expectancy
Freedom of choice
Generosity
Perceived level of corruption

Top 10 – Ranking of the Best Countries to Live in Europe in 2024

Below, we present the 10 European countries that are at the top of the ranking. What sets them apart from other countries?

10. Belgium

This country ranked 16th in the global ranking. Belgium offers its residents a high standard of living, attractive salaries, and one of the best healthcare systems in the world.

Job offers in Belgium

9. Austria 

Austria ranked 14th globally. It is a country with a high standard of living and one of the most favorable social systems in Europe.

Job offers in Austria

8. Switzerland

Switzerland dropped from 8th to 9th place in the ranking. It maintains its high position thanks to a stable economy, high wages, and stable employment.

7. Luxembourg

W tegorocznym rankingu Luksemburg awansował z 9 na 8 miejsce. Swoją pozycję zawdzięcza najwyższemu PKB per capita. 

6. Norway

This time, Norway ranked 7th. It was also in 7th place last year. This rise was secured by high scores for social support, GDP per capita, and freedom of choice.

Job offers in Norway

5. Netherlands

In 2023, the Netherlands ranked 5th, and this year it is in 6th place globally. This is due to the country’s pro-social policies (healthcare, family benefits, financial support). It is also a country that is friendly to foreigners.

Job offers in the Netherlands

4. Sweden

This is another Scandinavian country that has been in the top 10 best countries to live in for years. In 2024 Sweden climbed two places. This is related to the very high level of trust citizens have in the government, which translates into a happy and peaceful life.

3. Iceland

Iceland repeats its success from last year, ranking 3rd. It is a country with the highest scores for social support. Icelanders, as a nation, form a community built on understanding, support, a sense of safety, and belonging.

2. Denmark

Denmark once again takes 2nd place! Anyone who has delved into Danish philosophy of life has surely encountered the concept of “hygge.” This Danish word describes a state in which we feel comfort, ease, and kindness. According to Danes, the key to happiness is regular meetings with people.

Job offers in Denmark

1. Finland

The winner of the 2024 World Happiness Report is Finland, which has ranked first several times in the last 10 years. Finland stands out from other countries due to a high level of trust in the authorities and freedom. The Finnish philosophy of life – called “sisu” – speaks of perseverance, courage, and strong will. Finns persistently strive towards their goals despite adversity. It’s also worth mentioning the close relationship Finns have with nature. Despite the harsh climate, they spend a lot of time outdoors.

Find a job on europa.jobs!

What to pack when traveling to work abroad?

5 Reasons to Live in Sweden: Work and Daily Life