Sweden

Sweden dropped from sixth to seventh place this year due to its high COVID-related death rate, which was the highest among the Nordic nations. Despite this, it continues to rank among the happiest nations in the world, in large part because of a high GDP per capita. According to a different study, Sweden is the best country for women due to its emphasis on social equality that is incorporated into the educational system as early as kindergarten, 16 months of paid family leave that can be divided between a couple after a new child is welcomed into a family, and free daycare. Basically, a population that places more of an emphasis on work-life balance is happier.

Endorphin-boosting travel tip:

Lagom is a Swedish way of life (similar to hygge in Denmark), which is difficult to translate but essentially means balance and moderation. Lagom is applied to everything in Sweden, from clothing to diet, but the most tourist-friendly way to enjoy this lifestyle is to participate in fika—a designated time of day to slow down and be present, usually with a hot cup of coffee and a baked good. Simply visit any of Stockholm's excellent cafes around 11 a.m. to easily join the locals in this daily ritual.

Average Life Evaluation: 7.384