10 reasons why the Danes are so happy

October 17, 2019Welcome Copenhagen

The land of happiness and community…

Since 2012, Denmark has been consistently ranked at the top of the World Happiness Report’s list of happiest countries in the world. Could it have something to do with it’s welfare state, high standard of living, or maybe the Hygge effect? We give you 10 reasons why Denmark ranks at the top of the list of happiest countries on the planet.

It’s no wonder that people are generally a little bit happier in Denmark. The Danes have access to great education and health care. The government is stable and there are low levels of public corruption. Furthermore, the vast majority of Danes happily pay some of the highest taxes in the world, because they can see that it creates a better society.

The World Happiness Report features 156 countries ranked according to how happy their citizens perceive themselves to be, as well as this year focusing on happiness and community. So what is really going on that makes the Danes so content? Here are a few ideas…

Camaraderie - many Danes feel a close almost tribal kinship to Denmark and other Danes and even remain close to their friends from grade school.
Trust - Denmark has an extremely high standard of trust. Three out of four Danes believe that they can trust a majority of people. This leads to overall lower stress levels and faith that people are generally open, helpful and do what they say they will.
Hygge - creating a cozy and hospitable atmosphere is essential to Danish culture.
Family/Work-life balance - Danes have a generous amount of free time to spend with family. You’re often trusted by your boss to make your own schedule. So you have a lot of flexibility along with 6 weeks of mandatory vacation a year. Danish families receive a total of 52 weeks maternity leave. But beyond that family is very important to the average Dane in creating a sense of identity and belonging.
Welfare - the Danish welfare state works. People pay on average 45% in taxes but in return receive free Healthcare, childcare, education, unemployment and many other benefits.
Equality - Denmark is ranked as one of the top countries for gender equality.
Community - many Danes volunteer or have a hobby and feel a great benefit from being a part of a community with the same interests and passion.
Safety - Denmark is a very safe country with low-levels of corruption and crime.
Mobility - Denmark has many options for education and changing careers and many people are empowered to try new things such as shift careers.
Exercise - It’s proven that exercise and motion boosts your sense of well-being and happiness. Not only do the Danes love to cycle but they are crazy in general about sports and exercise.