Antwerp Shines Bright: 5th Place in the 2025 World Happy City Index
A Global Recognition of Urban Joy
In a world where urban life often feels like a balancing act between convenience and chaos, Antwerp has emerged as a beacon of well-being, securing an impressive 5th place in the 2025 Happy City Index. This recognition places the Belgian port city among the global elite of urban happiness, alongside cities like Copenhagen, Zurich, and Singapore.
Health and Well-being at the Core
At the heart of Antwerp’s success is a holistic approach to urban living that prioritizes not just economic growth, but also health, education, governance, and sustainability. The city has made remarkable strides in public health, with 99% of its population covered by medical insurance and a life expectancy of over 81 years. Mental health support is also a priority, with more than 10% of adults receiving coordinated care, contributing to a low suicide attempt rate and a strong sense of community well-being.
A City of Learning and Innovation
Education and innovation are other pillars of Antwerp’s happiness. Nearly a quarter of the population holds a master’s degree, and over 84% possess digital skills, reflecting a city that is both intellectually vibrant and future-ready. Lifelong learning is encouraged, and the city’s universities continue to climb in global rankings, fostering a culture of curiosity and progress.
Transparent Governance and Civic Engagement
Governance in Antwerp is transparent and participatory. With a voter turnout of over 89% in recent elections and more than 800 datasets available through open data platforms, residents are not only informed but actively engaged in shaping their city. This civic involvement is further supported by a suite of digital services, from online appointment scheduling to intelligent traffic systems, making daily life smoother and more efficient.
Smart and Sustainable Mobility
Mobility is another area where Antwerp excels. Over half of all transport is green, and nearly all public transport vehicles are accessible to people with mobility challenges. The city’s integrated payment systems and real-time journey planning tools make getting around both easy and inclusive.
A Cultural and Social Tapestry
Culturally, Antwerp thrives with a rich tapestry of events, museums, and public spaces that foster connection and creativity. Its diverse population, multilingualism, and strong sense of identity contribute to a dynamic urban atmosphere where residents feel both rooted and inspired.
Green Transformation and Urban Renewal
One of the most powerful drivers of Antwerp’s rising livability is its bold reimagining of public space. The city has embraced a green-forward vision that not only beautifies the urban landscape but also addresses climate resilience, social cohesion, and quality of life.
At the heart of this transformation is the newly completed Zuidpark, a lush, multifunctional park built on the site of the former Gedempte Zuiderdokken. Once a vast, lifeless parking lot, the area now spans over eight hectares of vibrant greenery. Zuidpark integrates rain gardens, biodiversity zones, sports facilities, and cultural spaces, all while preserving the historical footprint of the old docks. It’s a space designed for everyone—families, joggers, artists, and those simply seeking a moment of calm.
Equally ambitious is the redevelopment of the Scheldt Quays, a sweeping project that reclaims 7.5 kilometers of riverfront. As part of the Sigma Plan, this initiative strengthens flood protection while transforming the waterfront into a dynamic public realm. With raised water barriers, stabilized quay walls, and inviting promenades, the quays are becoming a seamless extension of the city—safe, scenic, and socially vibrant.
Antwerp is also tackling the urban heat island effect with its “Cool Spots” strategy. These are small, shaded green areas—often converted from rooftops, paved squares, or underused corners—that offer relief during heatwaves. Places like the EcoHuis garden and Den Bell square now feature trees, water elements, and seating, while larger parks like Zuidpark and Spoorpark include “cool pockets” designed for vulnerable groups.
In residential areas, the city is rolling out “Garden Streets” (Tuinstraten)—green corridors co-designed with locals that replace excess pavement with plants, trees, and permeable surfaces. These streets not only beautify neighborhoods but also improve water retention, reduce flooding, and boost biodiversity.
The Everyday Joys That Statistics Miss
Beyond the metrics and masterplans, Antwerp’s happiness also stems from the everyday experiences that make city life feel human and connected. The city’s café culture—with its massive number of terraces spilling onto sidewalks and squares—fosters spontaneous social encounters and a sense of neighborhood familiarity. Local markets, like those at Theaterplein or the exotic market on Saturdays, bring together diverse communities in a celebration of food, culture, and conversation. Antwerp’s compact size and walkable neighborhoods mean that people often run into friends or acquaintances, reinforcing a sense of belonging. The city’s embrace of cycling, with ever-expanding bike lanes and shared mobility options, not only reduces stress but also encourages a slower, more mindful pace of life. These small, often overlooked elements—serendipitous chats, a favorite local bakery, a quiet bench by the river—are the threads that weave happiness into the urban fabric, even if they don’t always show up in the data.
Belgium’s Urban Happiness Beyond Antwerp
While Antwerp leads the way, it’s worth noting that other Belgian cities also made a strong showing in the Happy City Index. Brussels, with its vibrant international community and growing focus on sustainability and inclusivity, earned a well-deserved spot on the list. Ghent, Leuven, and Bruges were also recognized for their unique contributions to urban happiness, underscoring Belgium’s growing reputation as a country where quality of life is not just a goal, but a reality.
