The Top 10 cities to live in the world
Whether you wish to live somewhere with a higher standard of life or simply have an insatiable desire for travel, the concept of relocating overseas is always attractive. Choosing the finest area to live in on the planet might take time and effort. However, the 2022 Global Livability Index might assist you in determining the best place to reside.
The Economist Intelligence Unit of The Economist produces the Global Livability Index each year, which evaluates cities on more than 30 criteria in five weighted categories: stability, health care, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. Cities are rated, and total scores are generated to rank them from best to worst in terms of quality of life.
Overall, Western European cities dominated this year’s ranking, with Vienna topping the list for the third time in five years and Canada securing a couple of spots.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna, the capital of Austria, consistently tops the charts as one of the world’s most livable cities. Vienna is a city where modern innovation and traditional heritage coexist. Vienna residents have access to a world-class public healthcare system since everyone enjoys free healthcare, highly skilled professionals, and excellent facilities. With an efficient network of trams, underground trains, and buses, Vienna offers an efficient and cheap public transportation system that makes travelling easy.
The city’s “green belt” provides people with 46 square miles of green space, walking paths, and parks. Another major highlight of the city is that it is one of the world’s safest cities, with a low crime rate. Vienna has a vibrant cultural life, the food is globally diversified and of high quality, and the tap water is mineral water from mountain springs 100 kilometres to the south. It is also known as the “City of Music” because of its abundance of theatres, concert halls, and other music venues.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is Denmark’s largest metropolis, and its appeal has spread to every part of the globe for many years. This magnificent Northern European city has something for everyone, from fantastic cuisine and shopping to breathtaking architecture and exciting history. The city has a good quality of life because it boasts a quality education system, working circumstances are among the greatest in the world: salaries are high, and the welfare system supports not just locals but also foreigners. Concerning day-to-day difficulties, Copenhagen is an accessible city to live in. For example, everyone speaks English, there are 24-hour buses and metro lines, making it simple to commute even after midnight, and the crime rate is low.
There is never a dull moment in Copenhagen because of the abundance of year-round cultural activities with a plethora of film, music, and art festivals. Copenhagen boasts an astounding variety of independently owned stores, eateries, and other innovative companies because of the city’s entrepreneurial spirit. Additionally, residents can take advantage of the city’s top-notch museums and galleries, charming cobblestone alleys, picturesque canals, and vibrant culinary and cultural scenes.
Zürich, Switzerland
Switzerland’s largest city consistently ranks best in Europe for living standards and quality of life, with high incomes, high-quality healthcare, education and exceptionally low crime rates all playing a role. Despite having a relatively small population, Zurich is one of the most important financial centres in the world, which naturally attracts business travellers. Many financial institutions and banking organisations choose to conduct their operations in Zurich.
Zurich is one of the world’s most ecologically conscientious cities. The Global Destination Sustainability Index ranks it at 85%. In recent years, Zurich residents have prioritised reforestation, with the substantial forest regions of Adlisberg, Zürichberg, Käferberg, Hönggerberg, and Uetliberg commonly referred to as the city’s “green lungs.” There are several important parks along the scenic beaches of Lake Zurich, including Zürichhorn and Enge, and numerous open green places worth visiting across the city.
The city is at the forefront of modern technologies and projects, as seen by the infrastructure and city planning and the extensive bike and public transit networks that have made it safer and eco-friendly. Zürich also stands out for its vibrant cultural environment, which features a wide variety of open-to-the-public galleries, museums, festivals, farmers’ markets, and concerts both indoors and outside.
Calgary, Canada
Calgary is located on the western edge of the Canadian prairies, around 80 kilometres east of the Canadian Rockies. Because of its importance in cattle ranching, the city was previously known as “Cowtown.” Calgary has been considered one of the cleanest cities in the world; with low air pollution and an abundance of recycling initiatives, Calgary can stay clean even as the population expands. The city also offers one of the best education systems and outstanding healthcare, with top physicians, and the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan, which is generally recognised and one of the reasons people happily live in Calgary.
The city has one of the best public transportation systems in North America that allows residents to access citywide public transportation that is cheap, convenient, and environmentally friendly. Calgary’s commuter rail system, C-Train, is entirely powered by wind energy, highlighting the city’s shift toward renewable energy.
The city’s prominence in the economic and financial sectors provides numerous employment and company growth. There are a variety of athletic events, festivals, and outdoor activities that can be enjoyed in all four seasons.
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, British Columbia’s booming west coast seaport, is one of Canada’s densest and world’s most livable cities. It is a popular destination since it is surrounded by mountains and boasts vibrant art, theatre, and music scenes. Vancouver is a cultural paradise for its welcoming residents.
Outside Vancouver’s urban centre, there are many outdoor activities, such as hiking on local mountains, kayaking in False Creek, and parasailing in Deep Cove. The city also offers a full calendar of festivals to keep its citizens entertained.
The central core infrastructure of this city allows citizens to live and work in the downtown area. Unlike several large cities throughout the world, where the downtown is for working and the suburbs are for the living, Vancouver combines the two. This has resulted in more sustainable modes of transport, such as bicycles and public transit, making this city one of the world’s “greenest cities.” Vancouver topped the Global Livability Index rankings in addition to universal healthcare, education, and economic stability. The city’s commitment to sustainability, cultural diversity, and excellent healthcare contributes to its status as one of the world’s most livable cities.
Geneva, Switzerland
Switzerland’s Geneva is a city that is situated at the southernmost point of the vast Lac Léman. The Jura and Alps mountains encircle Geneva, offering views of the impressive Mont Blanc. It is known as the “peace capital of the world” because it is home to at least 200 international organisations, including the World Health Organization, World Trade Organization, International Committee of the Red Cross, World Bank, and the United Nations.
Switzerland is quite generous to those who lost their job. For up to two years while they hunt for a new job, employees who are residents of the nation and have held their position for at least a year are eligible to benefit payments equal to 80% of their wage. Geneva is among the most expensive cities to live in. Still, it is also home to some of the best theatres and museums (the Maison Tavel and the Geneva History Museum), has a well-developed public transportation system, and continually makes progress in sustainable development and environmental preservation.
Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt, a city in central Germany on the river Main, is a major financial centre and home to the European Central Bank. The skyline of Frankfurt, particularly that of its central business area, is dominated by some of Europe’s highest skyscrapers, giving rise to the nickname Mainhattan. The city has been famously known for producing high-quality sausages (frankfurters).
According to GaWC, Frankfurt is an “alpha world city,” a centre of trade, culture, education, tourism, and transportation worldwide. Many multinational and European corporate headquarters are located there. Frankfurt Airport is also the busiest airport in Germany and Europe and the airport with the most direct routes globally.
Frankfurt also rates highly regarding security, job prospects, healthcare, and education. The city also has a wide network of parks and bike routes, gardens, and museums, where residents can escape daily life’s rush and bustle. The city is also a global destination for world-class shopping, dining, and cultural events.
Toronto, Canada
Toronto, the provincial capital of Ontario, is a significant Canadian metropolis on Lake Ontario’s northern shore. The famous, free-standing CN Tower dwarfs the city’s tall buildings, which are part of a vibrant metropolis. Toronto also features a lot of green places, like the 400-acre High Park and the tidy oval of Queen’s Park. With the largest population in Canada, it serves as a centre for many different activities. Often referred to as New York North, the city is one of the most multicultural cities in the world and offers the ideal mix of business, culture, and entertainment.
The city prioritises healthcare and has a solid system in place. Residents of the nation are guaranteed access to high-quality healthcare and the best facilities. In the field of education, regular investments are made. The creation of new educational institutions and the launch of several initiatives all of these measures enhance the residents’ way of life and health. Additionally, Toronto residents never lack activities to do or places to go, thanks to a year-round calendar of events that includes sports, fashion, music, movies, art, and a fantastic culinary scene.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
The Netherlands’ capital is Amsterdam, renowned for its rich cultural history, intricate canal system, and small homes with gabled facades that date back to the city’s Golden Age in the 17th century. Although the city is stunning, alive, and busy, it is also quite friendly and low-key. Since it’s so small, you can get anywhere on foot or by bike, and there are ongoing events taking place or new places to discover.
While maintaining an excellent public transportation system, the city promotes bike and pedestrian infrastructure. Amsterdam has excellent living standards. Both education and healthcare are of the highest calibre. Although housing is rare, it is frequently refurbished or new and well-maintained.
Every Amsterdam citizen is entitled to 13 months of income and one month of vacation or leave for every 12 months of employment. In their spare time, people can visit one of the many clothes, food, or flower markets, the famed Van Gogh Museum, wander charming alleys, cycle across the city, and cross lovely canals.
Osaka, Japan
Located on the Japanese island of Honshu, Osaka, a large port city and economic hub, is where traditional culture and enticing modernity coexist. It’s a foodie’s delight and has been called Japan’s street food capital. Osaka is also known for its outgoing, fun-loving residents who make dining and drinking in the city an enjoyable experience.
Osaka is an amazing city with cheaper living costs than Tokyo. There are several outlet malls, commercial lanes, and the world-renowned electronic district of Nipponbashi. It’s a lot of fun to live in Osaka since it’s home to many prominent festivals across the globe, such as Tenjin Matsuri, Osaka Asian Film Festival, Halestorm, DojimaYakushido Setsubun Omizukumi festival, and so on.
With its numerous festivals, you’re guaranteed to be entertained. Osaka’s citizens have access to quality medical care, quality education, and urban security. Additionally, residents can benefit from Japan’s quality healthcare system, excellent educational system, excellent infrastructure, and efficient public transportation system, all of which contribute to the country’s high quality of life.
Now that you have clarity on the world’s most livable cities, have you decided where to go and settle down with your family? We wish you a great future.