On average 87% of the Dutch population is happy. But there is a difference between cities, with 85% of the people feeling good, and non-urban municipalities like Ede, with 89%. How come?
To answer that question, first we should understand what makes people happy. Is it safety, housing, prosperity? Is it being in a city with culture, universities and good restaurants, or, on the contrary, in a small village community, in the proximity of nature? Or is it something personal, like age, having a partner or a job?
First love, first job, first car
People who experience a lot of firsts – first job, first marriage, first car, first child – are usually happier than people who’ve been doing their work for a while, drive an old car and cling to long-term marriages. It’s only after the age of 65, when there’s more time for trips, hobbies and grandchildren, when happiness returns. So age is indeed an important factor.
Bright lights, big city
In fact happiness has to do most with personal experiences. So how can we state that the inhabitants of a small town are happier than those living in a big city? A city has plenty of facilities to meet up with friends. It’s safe and clean, offers work and a lot of amenities. Yes. That’s all true, but there is also more crime, pollution and loneliness. On the other hand: a small town like Ede offers most benefits of urban living, but lacks those disadvantages. Plus: most people have a job and a partner, while Rotterdam attracts more singles and unemployed, who hope to get lucky in the city.
Source: NRC
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