Top 5 Best Places to Live in the World
If you're looking to switch things up and boost your quality of life, consider one of these 10 best places to live in the world. Based on stability, healthcare, culture and education, these cities will turn your wanderlust into wonderful reality.
Stroll through Vienna's historic streets and enjoy its famous coffeehouse culture. Or, explore the Swiss city of Geneva that combines ancient watchmaking traditions with Mother Nature.
1. Vienna
Vienna’s enchanting mix of old-world charm and progressive modernity entices expats year after year. The Austrian capital ranks first among the best places to live in the world thanks to a top-notch healthcare and education system, an abundant supply of cultural & entertainment offerings, and a low cost of living (compared to Western European cities). Residents can spend their weekends roaming 1,700 acres of vineyards, chowing down on Sachertorte, or taking in opera at the world-famous Schonbrunn Palace.
Vienna is also lauded for its impressive commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness. This extends to the city’s extensive recycling efforts, a strong culture of communal wellbeing, and a well-maintained public transport network that keeps residents happy and healthy.
In terms of the city’s thriving neighborhoods, Wieden is one of the most popular with its booming cafe culture and lively nightlife. Historically working class, this district now boasts an eclectic mix of historic and newer residential developments, as well as numerous non-Austrian supermarkets and stalls (perfect for those who may miss home).
If you want to get a little further out of the city center, Liesing is another top choice for expat families. This affluent suburb was once a industrial heartland, which is still evident in its working-class architecture. However, the neighborhood has since been rejuvenated by 1990’s creatives, who have infused its charming streets with pop-up restaurants and groovy urban bars.
Switzerland’s Zurich is another high-ranking city that enchants expats with its medieval architecture, riverfront strolls, and sweeping mountain views. The lake-centered city also boasts a sophisticated transportation network, a large number of parks and gardens, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. While Zurich does have a higher cost of living than other Swiss cities, its high salaries and beautiful setting make up for it.
2. Copenhagen
The Danish capital lands in second place, and is also considered one of the world's happiest places to live. The Economist Intelligence Unit's index lauds Copenhagen for its enticing blend of old-world charm and progressive modernity, along with its quality healthcare and education systems. The city puts pedestrians and cyclists at the forefront of urban planning, while a metro system provides transportation for those traveling longer distances. It's also one of the most environmentally friendly cities, thanks to a culture of recycling and the fact that 68 percent of residents ride bikes to get around.
There's a lot to do within the city limits, from historic buildings and museums, such as Copenhagen's 17th-century waterfront castle, Frederiksborg, to shopping and restaurants in the lively neighborhood of Norrebro, where you'll find some of the most ethnically diverse dining options in CPH. And, of course, there's the City Center, which is practically tailor-made for Instagram with canals lined with colorful townhouses and boats bobbing on the water.
This year, two European cities were knocked out of the top spot in favor of Melbourne and Sydney, both of which scored high marks for stability, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Other cities in the top 10 include three Canadian cities (Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto), Zurich, Geneva, and Osaka, which combines tradition with modern living. For the full list, click through for the best places to live in the world.
3. Zurich
A cosmopolitan Switzerland
Unlike Copenhagen, Zurich is not a European capital but a small city that consistently makes it onto lists of the best places to live in the world. Located on the northern shores of Lake Zurich (flowing into the Limmat River) and framed by the snowy Swiss Alps, this urban paradise is an emblem of Swiss excellence. Its residents are incredibly content, and this is partly due to its commitment to sustainability, including recycling initiatives and the fact that a large proportion of people get around by bike.
Idyllic canals, a cafe culture and green spaces are part of life in Amsterdam. This spirited city has a laid-back atmosphere that encourages socializing, and locals are well known for their friendliness and hospitality. It also does a great job of balancing tradition and modern living. Its residents enjoy cultural heritage, delectable cuisine and urban excitement, while being supported by strong infrastructure and healthcare systems.
The most livable cities in the world
The Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2023 Global Livability Index scores 172 cities across categories including stability, healthcare, culture and entertainment, education and infrastructure. While Western Europe and Austria are a common sight on these top lists, this year sees more diversity among the world’s most livable cities, with Asia Pacific and Australia joining the list.
Sydney and Melbourne, both Australian cities, are gaining ground after their Covid-19 pandemic setbacks and improved healthcare and education scores. They are joined by the highly ranked Canadian cities of Toronto and Calgary, which rank ahead of Montreal and Vancouver in fourth and fifth respectively. These thriving urban hubs have plenty of attractions to keep residents happy, from the famous CN Tower and a lively foodie scene to outdoor activities like skiing, kayaking and cycling.
4. Geneva
Located at the southern tip of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman), Switzerland’s cosmopolitan capital is surrounded by the Alps and Jura mountains. It’s a global hub for diplomacy and banking, and is home to the United Nations and the Red Cross. The city’s French influence is evident from its language to its gastronomy and bohemian districts like Carouge.
For a touch of luxury, check into one of the grand hotels that dot the city’s landscape and offer old-world luxury and distinguished guest lists. There are also hundreds of mid-range options that offer a luxurious lifestyle at an affordable price. You can also take advantage of free public transit that connects the city to outlying towns with lower hotel prices.
It’s a safe city where violent crime is virtually unheard of, although pickpockets are a common issue. You can take precautions by keeping your belongings close to you and not leaving valuables unattended, or by reporting any suspicious behavior to police.
The city’s thriving cultural scene includes international artists that perform at the Grand Theatre and Geneva Opera House. There’s also the Museum of Watches that showcases a collection of musical clocks and jewelry watches, as well as the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum that allows visitors to learn about the humanitarian work these organizations do around the world.
It’s no surprise that European cities dominate this list of the best places to live in the world, but it’s interesting to see a few cities from other parts of the globe make the cut as well. Hopefully, more cities will take note of these results and continue to invest in their infrastructure and build a high quality of life for their residents.
5. Sydney
The cosmopolitan city of Sydney is known around the globe for its beaches, iconic harbor, and thriving culture. While its natural endowments make it a must-see for visitors, its residents take it a step further, with world class dining and cultural activities that keep the locals happy all year round.
While the city is massive, it manages to maintain a friendly village vibe across various neighborhoods that are full of cute cafes to grab a flat white. The shopping in the area is great with many old warehouses converted into classy shops. The nightlife is also vibrant with a range of options, from Irish pubs at Bondi and Kings Cross to large clubs in the center of town. The city is also a fitness lovers paradise, with year round sun and plenty of parks to enjoy the outdoors.
Located on the upper north shore, this suburb is close to the city and has a high walkability score with easy access to restaurants, cultural activities, and job hubs. It is also known as a safe place to live with a low crime rate and excellent schools.
If you’re looking to purchase a house in Australia, this is where you want to be. While the prices are high, they’re a fraction of what you’ll find in the capital city.
Located just 4km from the city, this suburb is perfect for those looking to live in a quiet location while still being close to everything. It is home to a number of parks, including the renowned Blues Point Reserve and has a high walkability score with most services within walking distance. The suburb also offers a range of public and private schools.
