Top 10 Most Livable Cities in the World for 2024

Welcome, curious listeners, to a journey through the most livable cities on our planet. The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has released its 2024 Global Liveability Index, ranking cities based on key factors like stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. Let’s explore the top 10 cities that made the list and what makes each of them so exceptional.

1. Vienna, Austria

Vienna tops the list for the third consecutive year. This city scores perfectly in stability, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. It’s known for its rich cultural heritage, including world-renowned museums, theaters, and historical sites, all of which contribute to a high quality of life​.

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen holds the second spot, praised for its stability and comprehensive healthcare system. The city is known for its modern architecture, green spaces, and efficient public transportation, making it a highly desirable place to live​​.

3. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich has climbed to third place this year. It boasts low crime rates, high-quality healthcare, and excellent educational institutions. Zurich is celebrated for its high standard of living and beautiful natural surroundings​.

4. Melbourne, Australia

Despite slipping to fourth place, Melbourne remains a top contender with its vibrant cultural scene, renowned educational institutions, and excellent public transportation network. However, an acute housing crisis has affected its overall ranking​.

5. Calgary, Canada (tie)

Calgary shares the fifth spot with Geneva. It is known for its low crime rates, high-quality healthcare, and strong educational system. The city offers a well-developed infrastructure and a plethora of outdoor activities due to its proximity to natural parks​​.

5. Geneva, Switzerland (tie)

Geneva, tying with Calgary, is recognized for its political stability, excellent healthcare services, and prestigious educational institutions. As an international cultural hub, Geneva hosts numerous events that enrich its cultural environment​​.

7. Sydney, Australia

Sydney, while slipping slightly in the rankings, remains highly livable due to its high-quality healthcare, renowned universities, and efficient public transportation. The city’s beautiful beaches and cultural diversity add to its charm​​.

7. Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver shares the seventh spot with Sydney. It is celebrated for its stunning natural environment, high-quality infrastructure, and strong educational institutions. Vancouver’s vibrant cultural scene makes it an attractive place to live​.

9. Osaka, Japan

Osaka maintains its position in the top 10 due to its stability, high-quality healthcare system, and strong educational institutions. The city’s rich cultural heritage and numerous festivals contribute to its livability​​.

9. Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland, tying with Osaka, is praised for its low crime rates, high-quality healthcare, and excellent educational system. The city’s beautiful natural environment and cultural diversity make it a highly desirable place to live​.

Elements of Livability

The EIU evaluates cities based on five main categories to determine their livability:

1. Stability: Assesses crime rates, political stability, and civil unrest.
2. Healthcare: Evaluates the availability and quality of private and public healthcare services.
3. Culture and Environment: Includes climate, cultural availability, and levels of corruption.
4. Education: Considers the availability and quality of private and public education.
5. Infrastructure: Evaluates the quality of roads, public transportation, housing, and utilities.

Each of these cities excels in multiple categories, contributing to their high rankings on the Global Liveability Index. From the cultural richness of Vienna and Copenhagen to the natural beauty of Vancouver and Auckland, these cities offer a blend of stability, high-quality services, and a vibrant cultural life that makes them the most livable places in the world.