World Happiness Report for United States 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank United States: 23
- Happiness Score United States:6.725
Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.
What is the Happiness Index?
The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.
How is the Happiness Index Calculated?
The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.
In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:
- GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
- Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
- Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
- Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
- Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
- Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.
These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.
What Does the Happiness Index Affect?
The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:
- Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
- Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
- Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
- Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.
By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.
Short information
- Abbreviation of United States. US.
United States is a federal republic, where the President is both the head of state and government. It is known for its diverse cultural influences, including music, food, and art. With the largest economy in the world, the United States is a global leader in industries such as technology, finance, and entertainment.
- The United States is home to the world’s first national park, Yellowstone National Park.
- The country has the world’s highest incarceration rate.
- The United States is the birthplace of many influential musical genres, including jazz, rock and roll, and hip hop.
Overview of the United States
Early History
The first known inhabitants of what is now the United States were Native American tribes that migrated from Asia across the Bering land bridge around 15,000 years ago. Various indigenous cultures and civilizations thrived across the continent, including the Ancestral Puebloans, Mississippian culture, and advanced societies like the Cahokia and Poverty Point.
Kingdoms and Empires
There were no large, centralized kingdoms or empires in the territory that became the United States prior to European colonization. The region was home to numerous Native American tribes and confederacies, such as the Iroquois, Algonquian, and Muscogee Creek.
Colonial Period
European colonization began with the Spanish in what is now Florida and the Southwest in the 16th century. The English established their first successful colony at Jamestown in 1607, followed by the Dutch in New York and the French in Louisiana. The 13 British colonies along the Atlantic coast eventually revolted against British rule, leading to the American Revolution and the formation of the United States.
Independence and Modern Era
The United States declared independence in 1776 and ratified its Constitution in 1788, establishing a federal republic. The country rapidly expanded westward, acquiring vast territories through treaties, purchases, and wars. The Civil War (1861-1865) ended slavery and preserved the Union. The 20th century saw the United States emerge as a global superpower, playing a pivotal role in World Wars I and II and the Cold War.
Current Political Situation
The United States is a federal constitutional republic with a president as the head of state and head of government. The current president is Joe Biden, who took office in 2021. The U.S. has a bicameral legislature consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
International Relations
The United States is a founding member of the United Nations and a permanent member of the UN Security Council. It is a leading member of NATO, the G7, and the World Trade Organization. The country has close strategic alliances with nations like the UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan, as well as complex relationships with major powers like China and Russia.
Human Development and Economy
The United States has a highly developed mixed economy with a GDP of over $20 trillion, making it the world’s largest economy. Major industries include technology, finance, healthcare, and energy. The country ranks highly in human development indices and is a global leader in research and innovation.
Cultural Highlights
The United States is a multicultural nation with a diverse population influenced by Native American, European, African, and Asian cultures. Major religions include Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and Hinduism. The country has made significant contributions to art, music, literature, film, and popular culture.
Challenges and Opportunities
Key challenges facing the United States include addressing income inequality, healthcare reform, immigration policies, climate change, and political polarization. Opportunities lie in leveraging its economic and technological leadership, fostering innovation, and strengthening its role as a global leader in addressing international challenges.
Travel Tips for the United States
Best times to visit: The ideal travel period varies by region, but spring and fall are generally pleasant across most of the country. Summer can be hot and humid in many areas, while winter brings colder temperatures and snowfall in the northern states.
Cultural etiquette: Americans are generally informal and appreciate friendliness and respect for personal space. Punctuality is valued, and tipping is customary for many services.
Safety precautions: The United States is generally safe for travelers, but it’s advisable to exercise caution in major cities, especially at night. Stay alert, avoid isolated areas, and follow local advisories.
Must-see landmarks: New York City (Statue of Liberty, Central Park), Washington D.C. (National Mall, Smithsonian museums), Las Vegas Strip, Grand Canyon National Park, Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and iconic cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Miami.
Culinary experiences: Try regional specialties like barbecue (Texas, Kansas City), seafood (New England, Gulf Coast), pizza (New York, Chicago), and international cuisines in major cities. Don’t miss classic American dishes like burgers, hot dogs, and apple pie.
Living in the United States
Cost of living: The cost of living can vary significantly across the country, with higher costs in major metropolitan areas like New York City, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Housing, healthcare, and education can be expensive, but salaries tend to be higher in these areas as well.
Housing: Options range from renting apartments to purchasing single-family homes or condominiums. Real estate prices fluctuate based on location and market conditions.
Healthcare: The United States has a complex healthcare system involving private insurance plans, government programs like Medicare and Medicaid, and out-of-pocket costs. Obtaining adequate health insurance is essential.
Education: The country has a diverse education system, including public and private schools, as well as renowned universities. Higher education can be costly, but financial aid and scholarships are available.
Lifestyle: The American lifestyle is diverse, influenced by regional and cultural differences. Work-life balance, recreation, and leisure activities are highly valued. Social norms and legal requirements, such as taxation and immigration laws, should be carefully considered.
Doing Business in the United States
Business culture: The American business culture values punctuality, directness, and results-driven attitudes. Building relationships and networking are important, but the focus is often on getting down to business quickly.
Economic climate: The United States has a market-based economy and is one of the world’s most attractive destinations for foreign investment. Key industries include technology, finance, healthcare, energy, and manufacturing.
Legal frameworks: Businesses must navigate federal and state laws, regulations, and tax codes. Common legal structures include corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), and partnerships. Hiring and labor laws, intellectual property rights, and contract enforcement are crucial considerations.
Negotiation and relationships: Negotiations tend to be straightforward and focused on mutual interests. Building trust and establishing personal connections can help, but ultimately, the deal terms and financial benefits are prioritized.
Key industries: Major industries include technology (Silicon Valley), finance (New York), energy (Texas), automotive (Detroit), and entertainment (Los Angeles).
Studying in the United States
Educational system: The U.S. has a diverse education system, including public and private institutions. Higher education is offered through community colleges, universities, and specialized institutions.
Top universities: Some of the most prestigious universities include Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Yale, Princeton, and the University of California system. Rankings and program quality vary, with many excellent options across the country.
Student life: University life often includes on-campus housing, student organizations, sports teams, and various extracurricular activities. International students can find support through campus resources and cultural associations.
Visa requirements: International students typically require an F-1 student visa, which involves demonstrating sufficient funds, academic qualifications, and English proficiency. The application process can be lengthy, so planning ahead is essential.
Opportunities for international students: Many universities actively recruit international students and offer scholarships and financial aid. Internships, on-campus employment, and post-study work opportunities are available, subject to visa regulations.
Main facts
United States: Geographic Profile
1. Location
The United States is a country located in the northern part of the Western Hemisphere, spanning across the central portion of North America. It borders Canada to the north and Mexico to the south, with the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west.
2. Map References
The United States is situated in North America.
3. Area – Comparative
With an area of approximately 9.8 million square kilometers, the United States is slightly larger than the combined land area of China, Spain, France, Germany, and Italy.
4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries
The total land boundary of the United States is approximately 12,089 kilometers, shared with Canada (8,891 km) and Mexico (3,198 km).
5. Coastline
The United States has a total coastline of approximately 19,924 kilometers, bordering the Arctic Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and the Gulf of Mexico.
6. Maritime Claims
The United States claims a territorial sea of 12 nautical miles, an exclusive economic zone of 200 nautical miles, and a continental shelf extending up to 200 nautical miles or to the edge of the continental margin.
7. Climate
The United States has a varied climate, ranging from tropical in Florida and Hawaii to arctic in Alaska. The majority of the continental United States experiences a temperate climate, with distinct regional variations influenced by factors such as latitude, geography, and proximity to bodies of water.
8. Terrain
The terrain of the United States is diverse, with vast central plains, rugged mountain ranges (such as the Rocky Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains), and coastal plains along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Major river systems include the Mississippi, Missouri, and Columbia rivers.
9. Elevation Extremes
The lowest point in the United States is Death Valley in California, at -86 meters below sea level. The highest point is Denali (formerly Mount McKinley) in Alaska, reaching 6,190 meters above sea level.
10. Natural Resources
Major natural resources in the United States include: coal, copper, lead, molybdenum, phosphates, rare earth elements, uranium, bauxite, gold, iron, mercury, nickel, potash, silver, tungsten, zinc, petroleum, natural gas, timber, and arable land.
11. Major Bodies of Water
The United States shares several major bodies of water with Canada, including the Great Lakes (Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario) and the St. Lawrence Seaway. Other significant water bodies include the Mississippi-Missouri river system, the Colorado River, and the Yukon River.
12. Natural Hazards
Common natural hazards in the United States include hurricanes along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, tornadoes in the central plains, earthquakes in the western states, particularly along the Pacific coast, and volcanic activity in Hawaii and the Pacific Northwest.
13. Geography – Notes
The United States is the world’s third-largest country by land area, with a diverse landscape spanning multiple climate zones and ecosystems. Its central location between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans has contributed to its historical role as a major global power, while its vast natural resources have supported economic growth and development.
- Forest Area (% of land area): 33.90%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
- Co2 Emissions: 5,006,302. CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
- Agricultural Land( %). 44.40%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: 37.09024-95.712891.
- Capital: The capital of United States is Washington, D.C.
- Major Cities:
- New York City – Population: 8,336,817
- Los Angeles – Population: 3,971,883
- Chicago – Population: 2,695,598
- Houston – Population: 2,296,224
- Phoenix – Population: 1,563,025
- Population: 328,239,523
- Area(Km2): 9833517
- Population Density( P/Km²):36. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:1
- Official Language(s):English at 79.8%.
- Currency: USD
Main Economic Indicators
The United States has the world’s largest economy, with a highly diverse and technologically-advanced services sector, a significant manufacturing base, and substantial agricultural output. Its key economic challenges include rising income inequality, stagnant wage growth for middle-class workers, rising costs of education and healthcare, along with high levels of household and government debt. Notable economic policies include efforts to reduce regulatory burdens, reform the tax code, and renegotiate trade agreements.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
2021: 4.7% (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
2020: 1.2% (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Credit Ratings
Fitch: AAA (Outlook Stable)
Moody’s: Aaa (Outlook Stable)
Standard & Poor’s: AA+ (Outlook Stable)
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 0.9%
Industry: 18.9%
Services: 80.2%
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural Products: Wheat, corn, soybeans, beef, pork, poultry, dairy products, fruits, vegetables
Industrial Products: Petroleum products, steel, motor vehicles, aerospace equipment, telecommunications equipment, chemicals, electronics, plastics, machinery, medical equipment
Labor Force
Total Labor Force: 163.5 million (2021 estimate)
Comparative Ranking: 2nd largest labor force globally
Current Account Balance
2021: -$917.9 billion (Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis)
2020: -$616.5 billion (Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis)
Comparative Ranking: Largest current account deficit globally
Exports and Imports
Exports (2021): $2.5 trillion
Key Export Partners: Canada, Mexico, China, Japan, United Kingdom
Key Export Commodities: Machinery, electrical machinery, aircraft, vehicles, optical and medical instruments, pharmaceuticals, plastics
Imports (2021): $3.3 trillion
Key Import Partners: China, Mexico, Canada, Japan, Germany
Key Import Commodities: Machinery, electrical machinery, vehicles, optical and medical instruments, crude oil, pharmaceuticals, furniture
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
Foreign Exchange Reserves (March 2022): $686.1 billion
Gold Reserves (March 2022): 8,133.5 tonnes (valued at $509.9 billion)
- GDP (Current US$):$21,427,700,000,000. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
- Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 9.60%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
- Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): 36.60%. This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
- Gasoline Price. $0.71. It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
- Minimum wage. $7.25. It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
- Unemployment Rate (%): 14.70%. It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.
Social Indicators
National Identity
Nationality: American(s)
Adjective: American
Ethnic Groups
- White: 57.8%
- Hispanic or Latino: 18.7%
- Black or African American: 13.4%
- Asian: 5.9%
- American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3%
- Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2%
- Two or more races: 2.7%
Religions
- Christianity: 65%
- Protestantism: 43%
- Catholicism: 20%
- Mormonism: 2%
- No religion/Unaffiliated: 26%
- Judaism: 2%
- Islam: 1.1%
- Buddhism: 0.9%
- Hinduism: 0.7%
- Other religions: 1.8%
Age Structure
- 0-14 years: 18.4%
- 15-64 years: 65.2%
- 65 years and over: 16.5%
Dependency Ratios
Total dependency ratio: 52.3
Youth dependency ratio: 28.8
Elderly dependency ratio: 23.5
Median Age
Total median age: 38.5 years
Males: 37.1 years
Females: 39.9 years
Lifestyle Indicators
- Obesity rate: 36.2% of adults
- Alcohol consumption: 8.7 liters per capita
- Tobacco use: 14% of adults
- Life expectancy at birth: 78.9 years
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 78.5. Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
- Literacy Rate (% of adults): 99%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
- Birth Rate:11.6. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
- Death Rate:10. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
- Fertility Rate: 1.73. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
- Internet Users (% of population): 92.4%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
- Urban Population: 270,663,028. Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
- Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):11.10%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.
Infrastructure and Services
Military and Security Forces
The U.S. military is composed of five branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force. Notable special units include the Army Rangers, Navy SEALs, Air Force Pararescue, and Marine Recon. The National Guard and Coast Guard assist in domestic security and maritime operations, respectively.
Military Expenditures
The U.S. military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:
- 2022: 3.7%
- 2021: 3.7%
- 2020: 3.7%
- 2019: 3.4%
- 2018: 3.3%
The U.S. has the highest military spending globally, accounting for around 38% of global military expenditures.
Personnel Strengths
The U.S. has approximately 1.4 million active-duty military personnel, with the following breakdown:
- Army: 486,000
- Navy: 347,000
- Air Force: 329,000
- Marine Corps: 186,000
- Space Force: 16,000
Additional security forces include the National Guard (approximately 450,000) and Coast Guard (around 40,000).
Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
The U.S. military employs a diverse range of advanced equipment, including:
- Armored vehicles (e.g., M1 Abrams tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles)
- Fighter jets (e.g., F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning II)
- Naval vessels (e.g., Nimitz-class aircraft carriers, Arleigh Burke-class destroyers)
- Strategic missile systems (e.g., Minuteman III ICBMs, Trident II SLBMs)
Major ongoing acquisitions include the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines, and Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers.
Military Service Age and Obligation
The U.S. has an all-volunteer military, with individuals able to enlist between the ages of 17 and 39 (with parental consent for 17-year-olds). There is no mandatory military service requirement.
Military Deployments
The U.S. has significant overseas military deployments, including:
- Middle East: Approximately 50,000 personnel in operations against terrorist groups and regional security efforts.
- Europe: Around 65,000 personnel in NATO missions and deterrence against Russian aggression.
- Asia-Pacific: Roughly 85,000 personnel, primarily in Japan and South Korea, as part of regional security commitments.
The U.S. also contributes troops to various United Nations peacekeeping missions.
Strategic Military Notes
The U.S. military strategy prioritizes global power projection capabilities, maintaining a technological edge, and the ability to conduct operations across multiple domains (land, air, sea, space, and cyberspace). Key priorities include deterring potential adversaries, counterterrorism efforts, and supporting allies and partners.
The U.S. is a founding member of NATO and has extensive military alliances and partnerships worldwide, including bilateral agreements and participation in international coalitions.
- Armed Forces Size: 1359000. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
- Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 2.61
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 62.00%. This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.