Copenhagen Crowned World’s Most Liveable City, London Misses Top 20

The latest Global Liveability Index from the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has named Copenhagen as the most liveable city in the world, marking a significant shift in global rankings. The Danish capital achieved a remarkable score of 98, surpassing Vienna, which has held the top position since 2022. The report assessed 173 cities worldwide based on key indicators such as stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure.

Copenhagen’s perfect scores in stability, education, and infrastructure were pivotal in its ascent to the top. The EIU noted that Western Europe remains the best-performing region in terms of liveability, achieving top scores in four out of five categories assessed. The authors stated, “Western Europe remains the best-performing region for liveability, having achieved the top scores in four of the five categories.”

Top Cities and Global Trends

The ranking also highlighted a strong performance from the Asia-Pacific region, which saw nine cities in the top 20. Notably, Melbourne ranked fourth, while Dhaka, the region’s least liveable city, fell to 171st. The stark contrast illustrates the significant variations in liveability within the region.

In the United States, cities like Honolulu, Atlanta, Pittsburgh, Seattle, and Washington were noted for their appeal, but none made the global top 20. The absence of any UK city from this elite group underscores a concerning trend for the region. Major cities such as London, Manchester, and Edinburgh were included in the overall ranking but failed to score high enough for recognition among the most desirable places to live.

Challenges Affecting Liveability

The EIU’s findings reflect a broader issue with deteriorating security conditions across many cities worldwide. The report cites rising crime rates, social unrest, and threats of terrorism as key factors undermining stability in various regions, particularly in some Western European cities. The authors noted, “In several West European cities, terrorist attacks and threats, as well as a rising incidence of crime and xenophobia, continue to undermine stability.”

As the global landscape evolves, the liveability index serves as a critical resource for individuals and families considering relocation. The rankings not only reflect current conditions but also the potential for future changes in urban living.

The complete list of the top 20 most liveable cities includes:

1. Copenhagen, Denmark
2. Vienna, Austria (tie)
2. Zurich, Switzerland (tie)
4. Melbourne, Australia
5. Geneva, Switzerland
6. Sydney, Australia
7. Osaka, Japan (tie)
7. Auckland, New Zealand (tie)
9. Adelaide, Australia
10. Vancouver, Canada
11. Luxembourg
12. Toronto, Canada
13. Helsinki, Finland
14. Tokyo, Japan
15. Perth, Australia
16. Brisbane, Australia
17. Frankfurt, Germany
18. Calgary, Canada
19. Amsterdam, Netherlands
20. Wellington, New Zealand

As cities strive to improve their rankings, the emphasis on stability, infrastructure, and environmental responsibility will continue to shape the future of urban living.