What are the world’s most loved countries? A recent YouGov study reveals the top 10 nations that people across the globe admire the most, based on fame and favorability.
These countries have captured hearts with their culture, hospitality, landscapes, and international influence.
From the global reach of the United States to the charm of Switzerland and the friendliness of Canada, this list highlights where admiration runs deepest.
Whether it’s scenic beauty, rich history, or welcoming vibes, each of these countries has earned its place. Read on to discover which nations the world holds in highest regard, and why they stand out.
Here are the 10 countries the world loves the most:
1. United States of America
The United States of America came out on top as the number one most popular country in a YouGov study. It achieved the highest rank for both fame and popularity.
The USA scored 100% for fame, indicating it is universally known among the panelists. Crucially, it held the highest popularity percentage at 78%.
The study also highlighted strong demographic preferences for the USA. Seventy-eight percent of Generation X respondents held positive opinions.
An impressive 90% of baby boomers favored the country. It was the most popular for men (81%) and the number one most popular for women (74%).
2. Switzerland
Known for its scenic mountains, and delectable cheese and chocolates, Switzerland is the second-most popular country in the world according to the study.
It scored 97% in fame, meaning nearly all participants were familiar with it. Following closely behind the US, Switzerland achieved 74% in popularity, indicating a strong favorable opinion worldwide.
The study also highlighted that among millennials, Switzerland was particularly popular. It tied for first place with Japan in this age group, with 75% of millennials holding a favorable opinion of it.
3. Australia
Australia, the sixth-largest country in the world, proved to be very popular in the YouGov study. It is known as home to unique wildlife, gorgeous beaches, and funny slang phrases.
Seventy-two percent of respondents had a favorable opinion of Australia. The country scored a high 95% in the fame category, showing widespread recognition.
Notably, only 5% of people reported saying they dislike it. Folks from Generation X showed a particular liking for Australia, with seventy-eight percent holding positive opinions.
For men, Australia was the second most liked country, with 79% having a favorable opinion.
4. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom ranked among the top five most favorable countries in the world according to the YouGov study.
Folks across the pond will be happy to hear this result. The UK showed very high recognition among the survey participants.
Ninety-eight percent of participants had heard of the UK. In terms of favorability, the United Kingdom also scored highly. Seventy-two percent of respondents reported having a favorable opinion of it.
This places the UK in a strong position globally in terms of public perception, securing its spot high on the list of most liked nations.
5. Italy
Much like the sentiment in a classic song, people are seemingly falling in “amore” with Italy, placing it high on the list of most favorable countries.
Italy demonstrated widespread familiarity among the survey respondents. Ninety-seven percent of participants are familiar with this popular country.
In terms of opinion, Italy garnered significant positive views. Seventy-one percent of people reported having a positive opinion of it.
The study also noted a particular preference for Italy among one demographic. As for the ladies, while the USA was number one, 69% of women said they have a positive opinion of Italy, perhaps enjoying or dreaming of Italian vacations.
6. Ireland
The global celebration of St. Patrick’s Day might have contributed to Ireland landing on the list of the world’s most favorable countries, according to the source.
Ireland is clearly well-known across the globe. Ninety-five percent of respondents in the YouGov study had heard of Ireland.
The country also enjoys significant positive regard. Seventy percent of participants reported having a positive opinion of Ireland.
Demonstrating its widespread appeal and lack of negative sentiment, a low percentage of people held an unfavorable view. Only 5% of participants had an unfavorable opinion of Ireland.
7. Sweden
Whether people love Sweden’s ample alpine skiing, are obsessed with shopping at Ikea, or enjoy its famous meatballs, the country is clearly popular worldwide, securing a spot on the list of most favorable nations. Sweden shows good global recognition.
The country also enjoys considerable positive opinions from the public. Sixty-eight percent of people think positively of Sweden. Furthermore, very few people reported having a negative view.
Only 3% of respondents reported disliking it. This high favorability and low negative opinion contribute to Sweden’s positive image internationally.
8. Canada
Canada, America’s northern neighbor, is known for its incredibly kind citizens, which may contribute to its high favorability in the study.
People shared very friendly opinions when asked about Canada. This resulted in a significant popularity score among respondents.
Canada achieved 68% popularity. While many held a positive view, a notable portion had a neutral stance. Seventeen percent of people had a neutral opinion about it.
Canada’s reputation for kindness likely helps solidify its position as one of the world’s most liked countries, sharing the same popularity percentage as Sweden.
9. Japan
As one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, it’s safe to say Japan is a favorable country, ranking ninth on the list.
Millions of people are drawn to visit its bustling streets like Tokyo and breathtaking places like Mount Fuji. Japan is very well-known globally.
Ninety-seven percent of people are familiar with the country. It also holds a widely positive view among respondents.
Sixty-six percent of participants have a positive view of it. According to the study, among millennials, Japan was particularly popular, tying for first with Switzerland with 75% popularity.
10. Iceland
Despite its name suggesting cold temperatures, Iceland is kept relatively warm by the Gulf Stream, especially during summer.
This unique geography and stunning landscapes likely contribute to its positive global perception. Iceland secured a spot among the ten most favorable countries in the YouGov study.
Sixty-six percent of people reported having a favorable opinion of the country. Demonstrating a very low level of negative sentiment, very few respondents held an unfavorable view.
Only 2% of participants thought negatively of it, making it one of the countries with the fewest dislikes on the list.
Alicia Richards