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Urban transformation program

Designing cities where people flourish.

As urban areas grow, integrated well-being becomes urgent. Cities of Happiness is a new frontier: safe, inclusive, and sustainable urban communities designed to nurture people, empower organizations, and regenerate the planet.

What is it?

An urban transformation model driven by the WHF.

Cities of Happiness helps cities make well-being and happiness a measurable, systematic, and sustainable public policy.

"A city is not only connected by technology — it is connected by compassion."

Well-being, sustainability & culture

Improve well-being, sustainability, and culture in the city.

Citizen happiness & engagement

Promote citizen happiness, wellbeing, and civic engagement.

Broader social & environmental impact

Contribute to broader environmental and social impact initiatives.

Framework

People, cities & planet — the Wheel of Happiness.

Cities of Happiness uses the Wheel of Happiness to guide transformation across 9 dimensions, grounded in the SDGs and well-being science.

City leadersCitizensInstitutionsSchoolsCommunity

Proven models

Some of our Cities of Happiness

Pinecrest, Miami (USA)

Granada (Spain)

Mendoza (Argentina)

Antigua (Guatemala)

How it works

Join the movement in four steps

  1. 01

    Diagnosis

    Community-based happiness and well-being assessment. Evaluation of the environment. Focus groups gather key information.

  2. 02

    Strategic plan

    Co-creation of strategic plans with local governments and residents. Diagnostic report, customized program, self-sustainability strategies.

  3. 03

    Implementation

    Initiatives across the 9 dimensions with expert guidance. Ongoing training and a platform of tools for city leaders.

  4. 04

    Measurement & Certification

    Evaluation every 3–6 months against key indicators. Ongoing certification as a City of Happiness.

Why become a City of Happiness

Happier, healthier citizens

Cities that prioritize well-being experience lower stress levels and greater social cohesion (World Happiness Report).

Sustainable urban development

Conscious planning enables greener, more inclusive, resilient urban spaces — advancing SDG 3 and SDG 11.

Global network & recognition

Position your city as a pioneering model — and join a network of 10,000+ people in 450+ cities.

Let's co-create happier cities

Mayors, planners, educators, innovators & citizens — join the movement.