The Institute for Quality of Life annually assesses and names some of Europe’s happiest cities, employing a comprehensive methodology to gauge happiness. This involves thousands of indicators developed by researchers, directly linked to residents’ quality of life and happiness. Importantly, the assessment is based on real people living in these cities rather than hypothetical scenarios. The organization employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data such as diversity, education, political engagement, environmental health, local economy, and public transportation with qualitative insights gathered from interviews with residents and open data analysis.
Aarhus, Denmark, topped the list in the latest assessment, scoring high in environmental quality, citizen engagement in governance, and ease of mobility. Situated along the Bay of Aarhus, this city boasts cultural richness with institutions like the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, scenic beauty with the bay, and recreational options such as the Harbour Baths. Aarhus has a strong focus on environmental sustainability, offering initiatives like free green kayaks with a commitment to collect trash during trips.
Other cities joining Aarhus in the Gold Ranked category include Zurich, Berlin, Gothenburg, Amsterdam, Helsinki, Bristol, Copenhagen, Geneva, and Munich. These cities, although listed, are not ranked hierarchically, indicating that each of them can be considered among the happiest cities in their own right based on the Institute’s assessment criteria.
The Institute’s methodology considers various aspects crucial to residents’ happiness, including access to cultural amenities, environmental initiatives, public infrastructure, economic opportunities, and civic engagement. By taking a holistic approach and gathering insights from both quantitative data and qualitative feedback from residents, the organization aims to provide a comprehensive view of what contributes to happiness in urban settings across Europe.
Overall, the Institute’s annual assessment serves as a valuable resource for understanding the factors that contribute to happiness in cities, highlighting the importance of diverse indicators and citizen perspectives in evaluating the overall quality of life.
