The annual World Happiness Report is out, and if you were hoping to see the United States on the top 10 list, think again.

The U.S. didn't even make it to the top 20 list! Well, we ALMOST did. The United States came in at number 24 on the happiest Countries in 2024 so it’s better than being last and hey, there’s always next year.

Canva/IL
Canva/IL
loading...

Now, it's no surprise that the Nordic countries are once again leading the pack.

Finland, with its breathtaking landscapes and high quality of life, clinched the top spot for the seventh consecutive year, reaffirming its status as the happiest country on Earth. (I guess I know where I want to retire!)

Canva/IL
Canva/IL
loading...

According to an online article, This year's report introduces a new twist by providing separate rankings based on age groups, and the results for young people in North America paint a concerning picture.

Happiness levels among the youth have plummeted so drastically that they now lag behind their older counterparts, causing the United States to tumble out of the top 20 rankings for the first time since 2012.

However, some nations are experiencing welcome gains in happiness, particularly in Eastern Europe. Countries like Czechia, Lithuania, and Slovenia have seen significant improvements, adding to the diversity of joy around the world.

Canva/IL
Canva/IL
loading...

The Top 5 Happiest Countries in 2024:

1. 🇫🇮 Finland
2. 🇩🇰 Denmark
3. 🇮🇸 Iceland
4. 🇸🇪 Sweden
5. 🇮🇱 Israel

Now, one country on the top 5 list may shock you, Israel, as it did shock me, because of the ongoing conflicts within the country, but according to this report, Israel's consistent presence in the top 10 underscores the resilience of its people.

Take a look at the remaining top 20 happiest countries:

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

LOOK: Route 66’s quirkiest and most wonderful attractions state by state

Stacker compiled a list of 50 attractions--state by state--to see along the drive, drawing on information from historic sites, news stories, Roadside America, and the National Park Service. Keep reading to discover where travelers can get their kicks on Route 66.

Gallery Credit: Kery Wiginton

More From KKTX FM