Ever wondered where you should live if you could pick any city in the world? Before you decide, check out the cities known for their incredible living standards.
Some places offer a better quality of life than others. Mercer, a top consulting firm, ranks cities globally based on their living standards. Who wouldn’t want to know where the best quality of life is found?
So, before making a move, explore these top cities with the best quality of life.
How Mercer Determines Quality of Life
Mercer publishes a list of the world’s best cities each year. Between September and November, they gather data from 241 cities, examining living standards to guide expats and their families. This information can help you choose where to move or visit, too.
What factors do they consider? Three main things: cost of living, eco-friendliness (including air pollution and traffic), and overall quality of life compared to New York City.
1. Toronto, Canada
Toronto is the most populated city in Canada, known for its world-class healthcare services. With abundant employment opportunities and cultural diversity, Toronto attracts people from all over the world.
2. Luxembourg, Luxembourg
Luxembourg offers a strong economy, beautiful surroundings, and family-friendly policies. The city makes it easier to manage work and family responsibilities with its social programs and strong work-life balance.
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is famous for its canals and historical landmarks like the Anne Frank House. The city is an international business gateway, making it a sought-after place for expats. While housing costs are high, Amsterdam offers an attractive work-life balance.
4. Basel, Switzerland
Basel, Switzerland, known for its historical sites and museums, is the country’s cultural capital. The city’s high quality of life includes hassle-free transport, excellent healthcare, great air quality, abundant career options, and safe surroundings.
5. Bern, Switzerland
Bern, Switzerland, is a compact city known for its government institutions and relaxed lifestyle. It promotes a pro-business culture while conserving natural parks and greenery, offering a peaceful setting with top-notch transport and healthcare.
6. Wellington, New Zealand
Wellington, New Zealand, offers a laid-back lifestyle with ample greenery and wildlife sanctuaries. Despite its peaceful village feel, Wellington has a unique business district without the typical fast-paced city life.
7. The Hague, Netherlands
The Hague, the “International City of Peace and Justice,” hosts the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. The city blends modern living with a suburban feel, offering historical beauty, nearby beaches, and forests.
8. Dusseldorf, Germany
Dusseldorf, Germany, is a bustling city with a strong focus on fashion, art, and fairs. Despite its commercial capital status, it celebrates cultural festivals and maintains plenty of outdoor spaces, making it ideal for families and expats.
9. Sydney, Australia
Sydney, Australia, is a cultural melting pot with a vibrant atmosphere and thriving economy. Its diverse culture and career opportunities make it a top choice for those looking to launch a business or advance their career.
10. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with scenic landmarks and a well-connected public transportation system. Vancouver’s healthcare benefits and employment opportunities make it an attractive place to start a new life.
11. Munich, Germany
Munich, Germany, is a global trade and commerce hub. It has a higher cost of living but excellent employment and business opportunities. The city blends historical sites with modern urban living, maintaining its ranking as one of the most livable cities.
12. Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt, Germany, is highly international, with top universities like Goethe University and people who speak multiple languages. The city offers exceptional public services, high educational standards, and competitive salaries, justifying its higher living costs.
13. Geneva, Switzerland
Geneva, known as the “Capital of Peace,” hosts the WHO, UN, and Red Cross. The city’s rich history, culture, and incredible architecture, along with its well-planned transport system, make it a great hub for accessing other European cities.
14. Copenhagen, Denmark
Fans of parks will love Copenhagen, Denmark. The city features great architecture and outdoor spaces perfect for walking, cycling, and other leisure activities. Though slightly more expensive, Copenhagen’s excellent social services add value for taxpayers.
15. Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland, New Zealand’s most livable city, is also one of the cleanest globally. It combines modern urban life with outdoor adventures. The city’s thriving economy provides career stability, though the cost of living is higher, the jobs often pay well.
16. Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich, Switzerland, is a great place to find work, offering competitive pay and a productive environment. The city boasts world-class urban planning, a walkable layout, and an excellent public transport system. Zurich’s top-notch healthcare facilities ensure you are well taken care of.
17. Vienna, Austria
Vienna, Austria’s capital, consistently ranks as the world’s most livable city. It offers an ideal work-life balance with affordable, efficient transport and accessible wellness programs. The city’s green spaces make it a perfect blend of urban and nature-friendly living.
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