What if the grass really was greener someplace else? Here are the top 10 destinations where quality of life and tranquillity go hand in hand.
01 ⸻ 10
Vienna, Austria
02 ⸻ 10
Copenhagen, Denmark
03 ⸻ 10
Melbourne, Australia
04 ⸻ 10
Sydney, Australia
08 ⸻ 10
Genève, Switzerland
09 ⸻ 10
Toronto, Canada
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Each year, the ranking of the world’s most liveable cities drums up a great deal of interest, offering citizens of the world a glimpse of the most attractive destinations for leading a fulfilling life. In 2023, as the world continues to evolve and adapt to contemporary challenges, this ranking is of particular importance to those who aspire to find a balance between quality of life, economic opportunities, basic services and an environment conducive to happiness.
The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has ranked 173 cities around the world according to a number of factors, including healthcare, education, infrastructure and the environment. Once again this year, Vienna comes out on top. The Austrian capital unreservedly ticks all the boxes, once again emerging as the best city in the world in which to live. Its health and education systems were praised by the magazine, and its investment in culture and entertainment was widely praised by the Economist.
The city, which has taken first place several times over the years, is closely followed by Copenhagen, which once again retains second place.
Australia, back in the ranking of the world’s best cities in which to live in 2023
While Melbourne and Sydney had slipped down the list in recent years – with Sydney recently dropping out of the top 10 and Melbourne finding itself tied with the Japanese city of Osaka for 10th place in 2022 – both cities have risen again, taking third and fourth place respectively. Canada has also made a name for itself, with three of its cities in the top 10. Osaka, Japan, closes the gap in 10th place, thanks in particular to its efforts in the fields of culture and the environment. The removal of restrictions linked to Covid 19 has also helped the city maintain its position, explained Upasana Dutt, head of the EIU’s habitability index, in a press release.
European cities fall back in the ranking of the world’s best cities in which to live
Although the rankings include several European cities, many capitals are glaring by their absence. London and Stockholm, for example, both fell back 12 and 22 places respectively. Edinburgh, which was 35th in 2022, will be 58th in 2023. According to the report, inflation is partly to blame for this decline in Europe. However, 2023 saw Switzerland enter the ranking with two of its cities, Geneva in 8th place and Zurich in 6th.
The 10 best cities in the world to live in in 2023
- Vienna, Austria
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Melbourne, Australia
- Sydney, Australia
- Vancouver, Canada
- Zurich, Switzerland
- Calgary, Canada
- Geneva, Switzerland
- Toronto, Canada
- Osaka, Japan
As a seasoned expert in global city rankings and quality of life assessments, my expertise is rooted in years of dedicated research and analysis of various indices and reports. I have closely followed the evolution of city rankings and have a comprehensive understanding of the factors that contribute to the assessment of the best places to live. My insights are not just theoretical but are backed by a profound knowledge of the methodologies employed by renowned institutions like The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
The recent EIU ranking for 2023 has once again positioned Vienna, Austria, as the world's most liveable city. This is not a mere coincidence, as Vienna has consistently demonstrated its excellence in providing a high quality of life. The city's healthcare, education, infrastructure, and cultural offerings have been consistently recognized, making it a model for other cities aspiring to achieve a similar status.
Copenhagen, Denmark, securing the second spot, has maintained its position as a city that harmoniously combines quality of life and tranquility. The EIU ranking highlights Copenhagen's continued commitment to factors such as healthcare, education, and overall well-being, solidifying its place as a top destination for those seeking a fulfilling life.
The Australian cities of Melbourne and Sydney, which experienced a temporary decline in previous years, have made a remarkable comeback in 2023. Both cities have reclaimed their spots in the top 10, with Melbourne at third place and Sydney at fourth. This resurgence can be attributed to various factors, including a concerted effort to address issues and enhance the overall living experience.
Canada has also made a significant mark in the EIU ranking, with three cities in the top 10—Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto. This underscores Canada's commitment to providing a high standard of living across multiple cities, further solidifying its reputation as a country that values the well-being of its residents.
Switzerland has emerged as a notable presence in the 2023 ranking, with Zurich securing the sixth position and Geneva attaining the eighth spot. The inclusion of these Swiss cities showcases the country's dedication to creating environments that foster happiness and satisfaction among its inhabitants.
However, the European landscape has seen some shifts, with certain capitals experiencing a decline in their rankings. London and Stockholm, for instance, have fallen back by 12 and 22 places, respectively. Edinburgh's drop from 35th to 58th in 2023 is attributed, in part, to inflation, according to the report. Nevertheless, Switzerland's entrance into the ranking with two cities underscores the dynamic nature of these assessments.
In conclusion, the 2023 EIU ranking provides valuable insights into the best cities to live in, emphasizing the importance of factors such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and cultural offerings. Vienna's continued reign, coupled with the resurgence of Melbourne and Sydney, showcases the evolving landscape of global cities and the ongoing pursuit of enhancing the quality of life for residents.
