Happiness is objective, depending on the person and can be influenced by a huge array of factors.
Your family and social life, health, job and hobbies all have an impact. And according to a 2023 study, where you live is also key.
A survey conducted by real estate agents Rightmove last year actually revealed how people living in different towns in the UK experience varying levels of happiness and life satisfaction.
The 12th annual Happy at Home Index, published in December, showed exactly which areas of the nation have the happiest residents.
More than 26,000 people took part in the survey, which considered 13 happiness factors including things like community spirit and green spaces.
Following the results, Rightmove compiled a list of the 20 happiest places in the UK.
Taking the top spot was the affluent area of Richmond-Upon-Thames, in Greater London.
But placing at number 17 was the only town from the county of Suffolk to make the list – Woodbridge.
Sitting along the River Deben and just eight miles from the coast, the market town of Woodbridge is described as one of the “gems” of Suffolk.
Discussing the happiness index, online community Rest Less, said: “Praised for its arty, historic atmosphere – this riverside town is a hive of activity while still managing to maintain a laid-back, holiday vibe.
“Woodbridge has a nautical history of making sails, ropes, and boats – for example, Sir Francis Drake’s fighting ships were built here.
“Today, wild swimming is popular in Woodbridge’s River Deben and many residents also enjoy a quiet stroll along its banks while admiring the classic, working Tide Mill (and perhaps even spotting the occasional seal!).
“Markets are popular in this port and market town too, and whether you want to go antique shopping, purchase a tailored suit, or enjoy a hearty pub lunch, Woodbridge has a huge choice of independent shops, restaurants, and cafes.”
According to thesuffolkcoast.co.uk, Woodbridge is a “beautiful and vibrant market town”.
The town “combines excellent shops with superb pubs and restaurants and numerous activities both indoors and out”, the site says.
It adds: “On the edge of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Woodbridge is the perfect base from which to explore the Suffolk Coast and its many tourist attractions.”
If you’re looking to relocate to Woodbridge, it might set you back though.
Data from Rightmove shows that properties in Woodbridge had an overall average price of £457,950 over the last year. This was above the UK average of £359,748.
The majority of sales in Woodbridge during the last year were detached properties, selling for an average price of £762,674.
Terraced properties sold for an average of £328,857, with semi-detached properties fetching £400,717.
