World Happiness Report Reveals Canada is the 7th Happiest Country in the World

What does it mean to be happy? According to the World Happiness Report, which has been put out for the last five years by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network for the United Nations, they look at seven main factors: caring, freedom, generosity, good governance, honesty, health and income. These are the 10 places deemed most happy (sorry, Disney); basically all the places you want to live or, at the very least, visit. Because why wouldn’t you?

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1 / 10

9. Sweden

Sweden actually ties for ninth with another country this year, and how it's not higher is beyond me. Ultimately, if you're a woman, it's the place to be and is considered one of the most advanced countries for females, you get five weeks paid vacation TO START, 480 days of paid parental leave per child, universal healthcare, unlimited sick days and cheap daycare. Also, IKEA. Excuse me while I go pack.

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2 / 10

9. Australia

The island nation shares the ninth spot with Sweden and it's no wonder. It has one of the most stable economies in the world with loads of job opportunities, the climate is excellent, the surroundings are stunning and the people are friendly.

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3 / 10

8. New Zealand

It's remote, the weather is perfect, the landscape is spectacular, it's environmentally friendly and forward-thinking, and the people are laidback and kind.

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4 / 10

7. Canada

Dropping one spot from last year, we still have much to celebrate during the country's 150th year as a nation. We are diverse, our healthcare system is world-class, and everyone loves Canadians. And, hey, it's not as cold here as everyone believes.

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5 / 10

6. Netherlands

Taxes may be sky-high but with services like education and healthcare, not to mention the commitment to an optimal work-life balance and the cultural benefits, it's not surprising the Dutch country made the list.

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6 / 10

5. Finland

Little job opportunities has led to dismal unemployment rates, so how did Finland remain in the Top 5? This year's report concluded that money doesn't necessarily equal happiness. The country came up with a welfare system that is both effective and fair, whereby those without jobs receive a basic monthly income. It's a two-year pilot project intended to reduce the unemployment rate, meaning they're looking at helping their citizens.

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7 / 10

4. Switzerland

The quality of life is exceptional, the air is fresh, the surroundings are clean and beautiful (imagine waking up to this every day) and the people are nice and polite. You're practically forced to take a proper lunch break, part-time employees enjoy the same benefits as a full-time job, get lots of paid vacation days and you practically never have to own a car.

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8 / 10

3. Iceland

It's become a popular destination, thanks to its gorgeous scenery, the Northern Lights and its arts and culture scene. The small country is safe, there are no mosquitoes and the sun basically never sets in the summer. That would make anyone happy.

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9 / 10

2. Denmark

Denmark has won the title of world's happiest country three of the five times the report has been issued. It has beautiful countryside, buzzing city life, the people are relaxed, and work-life balance is a must. Oh, and their universities are 100% free to attend. Score!

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10 / 10

1. Norway

The happiest country of this year might be struggling amid the falling oil prices but that's not a bad thing, according to the report. "By choosing to produce its oil slowly, and investing the proceeds for the future rather than spending them in the present, Norway has insulated itself from the boom and bust cycle of many other resource-rich economies."

It's also family-friendly, the healthcare is more or less free, its economy is booming, the country isn't overcrowded, the people live well and are doing what they love. What's not to love?