Lowest ranking yet for the United States

After dropping out of the top 20 for the first time last year, the US ranks No. 24 in the latest World Happiness Report.

“The decline in the U.S. in 2024 was at least partly attributable to Americans younger than age 30 feeling worse about their lives,” said Ron-Levey. “Today’s young people report feeling less supported by friends and family, less free to make life choices and less optimistic about their living standards.”

Last year’s report paid special attention to happiness among different age groups, highlighting declines among the young in numerous countries.

The US isn’t the only English-speaking country with happiness challenges. At No. 23, the United Kingdom reported its lowest average life evaluation since 2017. Canada, which has seen happiness declines over the last decade, remained in the top 20 at No. 18.

While the variables that help explain life evaluations are complex, there is one “balm” that’s within everyone’s reach, Helliwell said.

“Look seriously at the people with whom you are working, with whom you are living, who are on your streets, and put on a rosier set of glasses when you’re dealing with them. And that’ll change your behavior in traffic. It’ll change your behavior in political discussions. It’ll change everything,” Helliwell said.

Talking less and changenow listening more helps with attitude shifts that can lead to more cooperation.

“Negativity is poisonous to happiness,” he said.