These Are The Happiest Countries In The World

Happiness isn’t an easy thing to put a number to, but every year the United Nations tries to quantify it. They release the annual World Happiness Report that ranks every country’s happiness through surveys and data. The report looks at things like equality, work-life balance, a strong sense of community, and respect for other citizens. The top 20 have been revealed and they seem to have a winning formula.

#35 — El Salvador

El Salvador is the smallest and most densely populated country in Central America. The country’s economy is primarily agriculture-based, but has expanded its manufacturing sector in recent years which has contributed to a rapid increase in industrialization.

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Jose CABEZAS/AFP via Getty Images
Jose CABEZAS/AFP via Getty Images

While El Salvador does have high rates of poverty, inequality, and crime, citizens of the country note that social support and a healthy lifestyle contribute to their overall happiness. The country has a tropical climate, beautiful beaches, over 300 rivers and incredible views of mountains and volcanoes, which attracts over one million tourists each year.