Article categories: News
Vaasa is once again asking its residents: What makes you happy?
Published: 2.9.2026
The City of Vaasa is once again opening its annual happiness survey, which is now being conducted for the seventh time. The survey collects information on factors that affect happiness and monitors the wellbeing and happiness of Vaasa residents to support the development of the city’s services, activities, and living environment.
This spring, Finland was once again named the happiest country in the world in the UN’s World Happiness Report. According to the report, happiness is particularly influenced by trust in other people and society, close personal relationships, a sense of social support and the ability to influence one’s own life. The report also highlights the importance of a sense of community, access to nature and an active lifestyle for wellbeing. The same themes are also reflected in Vaasa’s strategy, which aims to make Vaasa the safest and happiest city in Finland. The happiness survey, organised by the City of Vaasa, explores how the people of Vaasa experience their own happiness and which factors strengthen or reduce happiness in their everyday lives.
– We want to hear from our residents about what contributes to happiness in Vaasa and how we can make the city an even better place to live. The survey also gives us valuable information if happiness levels decline, particularly among a specific age group, allowing us to respond, says Mayor Tomas Häyry.
Vaasa is investing in active lifestyles
In recent years, Vaasa has made significant investments in opportunities for physical activity and outdoor recreation. The city is continuously developing outdoor and exercise routes, local exercise facilities, and recreational areas by the sea to make it as easy as possible for people to stay active as part of their everyday lives. Research shows that regular physical activity and spending time in nature improve both physical and mental wellbeing and are important sources of happiness.
– We are continuously developing our sports and cultural services, pleasant living environments, and opportunities for people to participate and connect with others. At the heart of Vaasa’s strategy are residents’ wellbeing and everyday happiness. The survey results will help us identify the areas we should continue to invest in in the future, Häyry says.
Background to the survey
Vaasa’s happiness survey will be conducted as an open online survey from 1–30 September in Finnish, Swedish, and English. The survey can be completed online or using a paper form, which is available at libraries, the Citizen Service Centre, Vähäkyrö House and Vuorikeskus among other locations.
Professor Emeritus Markku Ojanen is responsible for conducting and analysing the survey.