People in Changsha county in the capital of Hunan province, have been experiencing high levels of happiness, ranking among China's happiest people for 12 consecutive years.

Every year, Oriental Outlook Magazine publishes the results of a survey on the happiest cities in China. The compilation of the latest list began in May and was released on Nov 26 in Guangzhou.

The 2018 list of the happiest Chinese cities (prefecture level or above) and counties is released on Nov 26 in Guangzhou. [Photo/changsha.cn]

In its 12th year, the survey asked more than 12 million people nationwide for their opinions. Sample investigations were also conducted, gathering information for rankings in 16 indices such as education, healthcare, income, environment, security, public services, and future expectations. This year's theme was "Opening-up, Driving Force of Happiness". The Liaowang Think Tank, co-sponsor of the survey, provided a professional evaluation system.

Changsha county is the only entrant from the central and western regions.

The county is committed to improving people's well-being through development. At least 100 livelihood projects are registered every year for progress in basic education, healthcare, cultural life, poverty alleviation, infrastructure, social governance and other fields.

Changsha county lets people share development dividends and has significantly improved its living environment. [Photo by Zhang Di/Xingsha Times]

The other happiest counties in 2018 are Yuyao, Putuo, and Yiwu of Zhejiang province, Kunshan, Jiangyin, Taicang and Zhangjiagang of Jiangsu province, and Rongcheng of Shandong province.

Changsha County Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital provides weighing machines and self-service blood-pressure monitors for the convenience of expectant mothers. [Photo by Zhang Di/Xingsha Times]