We look at why the World Happiness Report 2023 chose to rank Canada as the 13th happiest country in the world. Plus, why you will love it too.
Head to Canada – it is even jollier than it was last year!
The World Happiness Report 2023 is out, and perhaps unsurprisingly, Canada has a rosy spot in the top twenty. Canada is the 13th happiest country in the world! It has a ranking of 6.961. It is a considerable six places above the UK. Canada also beat the USA at 15, making Canada the happiest country in the region.
Moreover, Canada improved their position from last year, where they came in at number 15. Interestingly, the UK was number 17 last year. So, while Canada smiles brightened, the UK’s smiles have dimmed.
The World Happiness Report looks at GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and freedom from corruption. These variables have a direct impact on the happiness of locals, and for Canadians, it’s mostly smiles.
In first place, for the sixth year in row, was Finland. Followed by Denmark, Iceland, Israel, and the Netherlands.
Why is Canada so happy?
Here are some of the reasons we think the Canadians keep smiling (and while you will smile there too).
1. Three of the world’s most livable cities are in Canada
Calgary – the world’s third most livable city.
Canada has not just fared well in the World Happiness Report. In the Global Liveability Index 2023, an annual ranking from the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Canada was the only country to have three cities feature in the top ten cities for living. Vancouver secured 5th place, while Calgary was in at 7th and Toronto at 9th. Not a single UK city featured in the top ten.
Rankings were made looking at a variety of factors including healthcare, infrastructure, and crime rates.
2. A strong economy
Canada is known for its buoyant economy.
Canada has long had a status as an affluent country. As of this year, it has the world’s 10th largest economy.
3. High quality healthcare
You can expect an excellent level of care in Canada.
Canada has a universal, publicly funded healthcare system. All citizens and permanent residents receive free healthcare at the point of use. However, there are differences between the 13 provinces and territories in how the healthcare system works. Additionally, about two thirds of Canadians have private health insurance. It is possible for those on a work permit or other visa to apply for Canadian Medicare. Life expectancy is at 82.3 years. During the pandemic, Canada were praised for a low death rate and an effective vaccination strategy.
4. An excellent outdoor life
Niagara Falls
Canada boasts of tonnes of beautiful nature. From the stunning Niagara Falls in Ontario to the impressive mountains of the Canadian Rockies that straddle British Columbia and Alberta, there is a lot to see and be totally blown away by. Along with simply being a visual treat, from hiking to skiing to whale-watching, there is also plenty to do.
5. A reputation for friendliness
Canadian are famous for being friendly!
It is hard to measure friendliness. The World Happiness Report makes its judgements based on social support and generosity, suggesting that Canada’s status as the 13th happiest country certainly points to these characteristics being culturally embedded. Certainly, Canada has secured a worldwide reputation for being nice. There are are definitely worse reputations to have…And when you make the move to Canada, the warmth of big Canadian grin will make the transition smoother.
We can help you move to happy Canada – we have insight on purchasing a home there and your need-to-knows on living there.
