Finding the perfect place to call home changes every single year. We witnessed a significant shift in 2025 when Copenhagen finally surpassed Vienna to take the top spot. Rising stability concerns in Austria led to a decline in its score, while Denmark continued to improve its infrastructure. People want to know which locations truly offer the best daily life right now. Deciding where to plant roots becomes much easier when you know which of the most liveable cities in the World actually deliver the best quality of life for families and professionals.
The Economist Intelligence Unit evaluates thirty specific categories to rank these destinations. They analyze everything from medical access and education quality to cultural events and public transit. High rankings indicate that a city provides reliable services and maintains its residents’ safety. Stability became the deciding factor that reshuffled the deck this year. It clearly projects that peace of mind is the defining trait of the most liveable cities in the World.
In this article, we have curated a list of the top 18 cities, revealing the scoring criteria, so you can find the specific scores that helped Copenhagen win the title.
What Makes a City Liveable?
Experts do not pick these winners based on personal feelings or popular opinion. They employ a complex set of rules to determine where life is easy and where it is not. The Economist Intelligence Unit examines thirty distinct factors across five broad categories to calculate a score of 100.
Each category carries a different weight, meaning some things matter more than others. Safety and culture take the most significant slice of the pie because they impact your daily happiness the most. This specific formula is the only way to accurately rank the most liveable cities in the World and compare them fairly.
| Factor | Weight | Why It Matters | Example City |
| Stability | 25% | Low crime rates and freedom from conflict ensure you feel safe walking home at night. | Copenhagen (100) |
| Culture & Environment | 25% | This measures climate, social freedom, and the number of enjoyable activities available. | Auckland (97.9) |
| Healthcare | 20% | It tracks how fast you can see a doctor and the quality of public hospitals. | Vienna (100) |
| Infrastructure | 20% | Good roads, reliable electricity, and quality housing make life convenient. | Copenhagen (100) |
| Education | 10% | Access to excellent public and private schools is vital for families. | 10 Cities (100) |
Where to Live Best: The 18 Most Liveable Cities in the World
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
- Score: 98.0
- Notable Strength: Perfect scores in Stability, Education & Infrastructure
Copenhagen finally claimed the top spot in 2025 after years of chasing Vienna. The Danish capital sets the global standard for achieving a work-life balance and promoting sustainable living. Topping the list of the Most Liveable Cities in the World, Copenhagen proves that a city does not need to be massive to be influential.
You will rarely see traffic jams here because the cycling infrastructure is superior to anywhere else on earth. Locals prioritize their free time just as much as their careers, which creates a relaxed yet productive atmosphere. The city scored perfectly in stability, meaning crime is virtually non-existent, and residents feel safe at all hours. It combines modern design with deep history and reliable public services that actually work when you need them.
2. Vienna, Austria
- Score: 97.1
- Notable Strength: Perfect scores in Healthcare, Education & Infrastructure
Vienna held the crown for years before slipping to second place due to minor concerns about stability. Despite the decline, it remains a cultural influence, with museums and coffeehouses that define its character. The public transport system is affordable and covers every corner of the city, making a car completely unnecessary. Families love Vienna because the healthcare and education systems scored a perfect 100.
It is challenging to find another place that balances imperial history with modern efficiency as well as this one. The Austrian capital defines what it means to be included in the World’s most liveable cities by offering affordable housing and rich cultural experiences. You can spend your weekends at the opera or hiking in nearby vineyards without leaving the city limits.
3. Zurich, Switzerland
- Score: 97.1
- Notable Strength: Perfect Healthcare & Education scores
Zurich is often viewed solely as a financial banking hub, but it offers much more for daily living. The city is immaculate and runs with the precision you would expect from the Swiss. It shares the second-place position with Vienna, boasting unmatched scores in health and learning institutions.
Residents enjoy pristine access to Lake Zurich and a quick escape to the Alps for skiing or hiking. While the cost of living is high, salaries usually match the expenses. Zurich proves that safety and efficiency are key components to becoming a liveable city. It is quiet, organized, and functionally perfect for those who value order and high-quality public amenities over chaos and disorder.
4. Melbourne, Australia
- Score: 97.0
- Notable Strength: Perfect Healthcare & Education scores
Melbourne is the cool sibling of Australian cities and consistently ranks high for its vibrant arts scene. It is famous for having the best coffee culture on the planet and laneways packed with hidden bars and restaurants. The city scored perfectly in education and healthcare, making it a top choice for international students and families.
It feels diverse and welcoming, with distinct neighborhoods that each have their own personality. Sport is a religion here, with the Australian Open and cricket matches drawing massive crowds. Melbourne demonstrates that a city can be enjoyable while still prioritizing its residents’ well-being. The tram system makes moving around the inner suburbs easy and free.
5. Geneva, Switzerland
- Score: 96.8
- Notable Strength: Perfect Healthcare & Education scores
Geneva is small but carries a massive global influence as the headquarters for many international organizations. It sits beautifully on the shores of an enormous lake with mountains visible in the distance. The population is incredibly diverse, meaning you will hear languages from all over the World as you walk the streets. Schools here are world-class, and the medical care is exceptional.
It can feel a bit quiet on Sundays, but the quality of life is undeniable. Geneva’s high ranking on the list of the Most Liveable Cities in the World highlights the value of stability and wealth. It is an expensive place to settle down, yet the safety and public services you get in return are worth the premium price tag.
6. Sydney, Australia
- Score: 96.6
- Notable Strength: Perfect Healthcare & Education scores
Sydney is visually stunning and arguably the most recognizable city on this entire list. The harbor, the Opera House, and the famous beaches like Bondi create an outdoor lifestyle that is hard to beat. Residents spend a considerable amount of time outside, enjoying the mild weather and taking coastal walks. Healthcare and education are top-tier here, matching those of Melbourne and Swiss cities with perfect scores.
Traffic can be heavy, but the ferry system offers the most beautiful commute you will ever experience. Sydney is yet another efficient option, as it combines serious economic opportunities with a laid-back beach culture. It is the ideal spot for individuals seeking a big-city career without sacrificing their connection to nature and the ocean.
7. Osaka, Japan
- Score: 96.0
- Notable Strength: Perfect Stability, Healthcare & Education scores
Osaka is renowned as the culinary heart of Japan, boasting an exceptional food culture. It feels friendlier and slightly more chaotic than Tokyo, which many residents prefer. The locals are known for being outgoing and direct, giving the city a warm and energetic vibe. It scored perfectly for stability and safety, so you never have to worry about walking alone at night. The rail network is extensive, connecting you to Kyoto or Kobe in just minutes.
Osaka, representing Asia on the list of the World’s Most Liveable Cities, proves that safety and infrastructure are universal priorities. It offers a distinct urban experience where neon lights meet historic shrines, all supported by a healthcare system that takes excellent care of its citizens.
8. Auckland, New Zealand
- Score: 96.0
- Notable Strength: Highest Culture & Environment score (97.9)
Auckland is known as the City of Sails because the harbor is always dotted with boats. It received the highest score for culture and environment among all cities on this list. This is the place to be if you love nature, as you are never far from a beach, a hiking trail, or a volcano.
The pace of life is slower than in Sydney or London, which significantly reduces daily stress levels. The climate is mild year-round, encouraging an outdoor lifestyle. Auckland is a viable option because it prioritizes the environment and personal freedom. It is a multicultural hub with a large Polynesian population, which contributes to the region’s unique identity and creative spirit.
9. Adelaide, Australia
- Score: 95.9
- Notable Strength: Perfect Healthcare & Education scores
Adelaide is often referred to as the twenty-minute city because you can get almost anywhere in that amount of time. It is far more affordable than its larger Australian counterparts, yet offers the same excellent scores in healthcare and education. Parklands and world-renowned wine regions, such as the Barossa Valley, surround the city. It boasts a thriving food scene and hosts massive festivals that take over the streets annually.
Adelaide challenges the definition of the Most Liveable Cities in the World by proving you do not need to be a giant metropolis to offer a superior quality of life. It is quiet, easy to manage, and provides plenty of space for families to grow without the stress of heavy congestion.
10. Vancouver, Canada
- Score: 95.8
- Notable Strength: Highest Culture & Environment in North America (97.2)
Vancouver is the only North American city to crack the top ten this year. It is famous for its unique location where you can ski in the mountains and sail in the ocean on the same day. The culture and environment scores are incredibly high because the city values diversity and green spaces.
It serves as a gateway to the Pacific and has a distinctly different vibe from the rest of Canada. Housing is expensive, but the trade-off is living in one of the most beautiful urban settings on earth. Vancouver remains one of the Most Liveable Cities in the World because it balances big-city amenities with raw nature. It attracts individuals who seek a healthy, active lifestyle alongside strong career opportunities.
11. Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- Score: 95.6
- Notable Strength: Climbed six places from 2024; strong across all categories
Luxembourg City is the biggest surprise on this year’s index, jumping six spots to crack the top ten. It is one of the wealthiest places on the continent, which translates directly into pristine streets and high salaries. The most notable perk is the public transportation system, which is entirely free for everyone across the entire country.
Residents enjoy a quiet, safe existence with easy access to neighboring France, Germany, and Belgium. The city is small, manageable, and incredibly international, thanks to the numerous European Union institutions based there. Luxembourg’s wealthier capitals can guarantee exceptional public services without the stress of a massive population.
12. Toronto, Canada
- Score: 95.5
- Notable Strength: Perfect Education score; diverse multicultural hub
Toronto is the economic engine of Canada and arguably the most multicultural city on the planet. Over half of the population was born outside the country, resulting in diverse neighborhoods that are filled with incredible food and festivals. It scored a perfect 100 in education, making it a magnet for families who prioritize learning.
While housing costs are a constant topic of conversation, the city offers safety and stability that is rare for a metropolis of its size. You can walk through downtown at night without worry, which is a huge plus. Toronto, maintaining its status as a heavyweight in the ranking of the World’s most liveable cities, demonstrates that diversity and safety can go hand in hand. It is big, busy, and full of opportunity.
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13. Helsinki, Finland
- Score: 95.4
- Notable Strength: Perfect Stability score; excellent public services
Helsinki prioritizes function and equality above almost everything else. The Finnish capital is famous for its “housing first” policy, which has practically eliminated homelessness. It is not the warmest place on the list, but the infrastructure is well-suited to handle the cold, so life rarely comes to a halt due to the weather.
The city scored perfectly in stability, reflecting a society built on high trust and low crime. Residents enjoy a close connection to nature, with forests and the sea just minutes from the city center. Helsinki’s presence on the list of the World’s Most Liveable Cities reinforces why Finland is often called the happiest country on earth. It is a place where things work, allowing people to focus on living well.
14. Tokyo, Japan
- Score: 95.2
- Notable Strength: Perfect Stability score; world-class infrastructure
Tokyo is the biggest city on this list by far, yet it functions like a small town. The train system is legendary for its punctuality; if a train is one minute late, they apologize. Despite having millions of residents, the streets are clean and incredibly safe. You can leave your phone on a café table and find it exactly where you left it.
The city offers endless entertainment, from quiet temples to neon-lit districts like Shibuya. Tokyo demonstrates that high population density does not necessarily lower the quality of life. It creates a unique environment where extreme convenience meets deep respect for others, supported by an infrastructure that handles millions of people effortlessly every day.
15. Perth, Australia
- Score: 95.0
- Notable Strength: Perfect scores in 3 categories (Australia’s sunniest major city)
Perth is often referred to as the most isolated city on earth, but locals view that distance as a benefit. It is the sunniest capital in Australia, offering an outdoor lifestyle that revolves around pristine beaches and the Swan River. The economy is strong due to the mining boom, which supports high-quality healthcare and education systems.
It feels much more relaxed than Sydney or Melbourne, with plenty of space to breathe. The city has shed its “dull” reputation with a revitalized downtown area full of small bars and restaurants. Perth securing a spot among the World’s most liveable cities appeals to those who want first-class amenities without the rush. It is wealthy, warm, and incredibly laid back.
16. Brisbane, Australia
- Score: 94.9
- Notable Strength: Strong stability & education; 2032 Olympics host city
Brisbane is transforming as it prepares to host the 2032 Olympic Games. Once considered a large country town, it has now evolved into a sophisticated river city with a rapidly growing population. The subtropical climate allows for year-round outdoor dining and an active lifestyle.
Housing is generally more affordable here than in the southern capitals, attracting many young families moving north. The city scores high on stability and education, providing a safe environment for raising children. Brisbane offers the perfect balance between the hustle of Sydney and the quiet of smaller regional cities.
17. Frankfurt, Germany
- Score: 94.8
- Notable Strength: Perfect Infrastructure score; Europe’s financial hub
Frankfurt, ranked as one of the Most Liveable Cities in the World, highlights the importance of connectivity. The city is known as “Mainhattan” due to its distinctive German skyline, characterized by numerous skyscrapers. As a significant financial hub, it attracts high earners and offers a standard of living to match.
The infrastructure score is perfect, mainly due to its extensive airport and rail connections that link you to the rest of Europe in just a few hours. While it is a city of business, it also has a charming old town and a riverbank lined with museums. It is incredibly international, so English is spoken almost everywhere. It is the ideal base for professionals who need to be connected to the global economy while enjoying local stability.
18. Calgary, Canada
- Score: 94.7
- Notable Strength: Dropped 13 places due to healthcare decline; still high-performing
Calgary took a brutal hit this year, dropping thirteen places mainly due to a shortage of family doctors and strained healthcare services. Despite this, it remains one of the cleanest and friendliest cities in North America. It is the gateway to the Rocky Mountains, meaning world-class skiing in Banff is just a short drive away.
The city offers high salaries and exempts it from provincial sales tax, which helps alleviate the cost of living. Stability and infrastructure remain strong points. Calgary, rounding out the list of the Most Liveable Cities in the World, shows that even great cities face challenges. It remains a top choice for those who love the mountains and want a community-focused environment, even while it works to fix its medical system gaps.
Copenhagen vs. Vienna: Why the Crown Changed Hands in 2025
For years, the battle for the number one spot has been a predictable tennis match between two European giants. However, in 2025, the dynamic shifted. Vienna, the long-time champion, slipped to second place, allowing Copenhagen to claim the title of the World’s most liveable city.
The change did not happen because Vienna suddenly became a bad place to live. Instead, it was about safety. Vienna saw a rare dip in its stability score following a series of specific security scares, including a high-profile bomb threat at a Taylor Swift concert and an isolated attack at a train station. These events, while minor in the grand scheme, were enough to shake the confidence of the index raters.
Meanwhile, Copenhagen stayed the course. The Danish capital quietly perfected its game, achieving triple-perfect scores in Stability, Education, and Infrastructure. It did not just rely on being safe; it focused on being functional. The city continues to invest heavily in green energy and public spaces that actually serve the people who live there. While Vienna remains unmatched for culture and healthcare, Copenhagen proved in 2025 that peace of mind is the ultimate luxury. This shift reminds us that even the best cities cannot rest on their laurels if they want to remain at the top.
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The Cost of Liveability: Can You Afford These Cities?
Living in paradise usually comes with a hefty price tag. The harsh reality is that the Most Liveable Cities in the World are often also the most expensive: high taxes and expensive housing markets fund high scores in infrastructure and safety. Before you pack your bags, it is essential to determine if your wallet can handle the move.
1. The “Premium” Tier (High Cost)
Cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Copenhagen are notoriously pricey. A simple cup of coffee can cost $6 or $7, and rent for a one-bedroom apartment often exceeds $2,500 per month. However, salaries in these cities are typically adjusted to match the local market. If you land a local job, your purchasing power remains strong. Deutsche Bank’s 2025 report even ranked Luxembourg #1 for quality of life when combined with local purchasing power, proving you can still save money if you earn a local wage.
2. The “Balanced” Tier (Moderate Cost)
Vienna and Osaka offer a rare sweet spot. Vienna has a unique social housing model that keeps rent surprisingly affordable compared to London or Paris. Osaka is significantly cheaper than Tokyo, offering fantastic food and rent at a fraction of the cost.
3. The “Squeeze” Tier (Housing Crisis)
Vancouver, Sydney, and Toronto are beautiful, but they are currently facing severe housing affordability crises. While the lifestyle is free (beaches, parks), the cost of putting a roof over your head can eat up 50% of an average salary. These cities are incredible places to live if you already own property, but they can be a financial struggle for newcomers renting in the private market.
Conclusion
Finding a city that matches your way of living is a personal decision, not just a numbers game. The stories behind these rankings reveal what truly matters: safety, reliable healthcare, and a sense of possibility. The Most Liveable Cities in the World remind us that quality of life is built every day through trust, local pride, and shared spaces. Whether you’re looking for peace of mind, new adventures, or a place that feels just right for your family, these cities offer choices worth exploring.
