Best Quality of Life Cities in the World: Why They’re on Top
What makes a city truly great to live in? Is it clean air and green parks? World-class healthcare and public schools? Or maybe it’s that feeling of safety and community where everything just works.
Around the world, some cities are getting it right, offering the kind of lifestyle that people dream about, whether you’re a working professional, a student, or a family looking to settle down.
The term quality of life may seem straightforward, but in global assessments, it reflects a complex blend of tangible and intangible elements that define how well people live in a given city or country. It encompasses much more than just wealth or infrastructure.
From Mercer’s Quality of Living Survey, primary factors include political stability, public services, educational attainment, healthcare access, air quality, and availability of outdoor recreation and green areas. These considerations often inform decisions by companies with corporate offices abroad, particularly those managing international businesses or relocating talent globally.
The Global Cities Index, developed by Oxford Economics, adds a more economic and infrastructural lens, focusing on a city’s connectivity, influence, urban development, and innovation capabilities.
Lastly, Numbeo crowdsources real-time data from everyday people, focusing on life index measurements such as safety, healthcare quality, climate, affordable housing, and traffic. The living survey draws from locals’ experiences, giving us a unique window into daily life in these cities.
Understanding why these factors carry so much weight requires a deeper look at how they affect individuals, communities, and businesses. Cities with a high quality of life are pleasant and highly attractive to global talent, major corporations, and long-term investment.
A city's score on political stability, infrastructure, and educational attainment metrics can influence corporate decisions on where to open a new regional hub or relocate key executives. According to Mercer’s annual ranking, businesses regularly use these key findings when developing global mobility strategies or expatriate packages.
Moreover, cities with strong urban environments, green areas, and access to outdoor recreational activities support healthier lifestyles, reduce healthcare burdens, and enhance productivity. In a post-pandemic world, priorities like air quality, resilience to climate change, and a community’s commitment to mental and physical well-being have become central to evaluating livability.
Even for governments, these rankings serve as a roadmap for improvement. A city’s rise or fall in the previous year can directly impact policy adjustments, public investment strategies, and the funding of museums, bike paths, and educational reforms.
In today’s world, where remote work and global opportunities are more available than ever, knowing which cities offer the best quality of life is crucial. Rankings help highlight places that aren’t just surviving but thriving cities with strong healthcare, reliable infrastructure, safe environments, and vibrant cultures.
These rankings guide companies expanding internationally and individuals looking to start fresh. Choosing a city based on quality of life can mean better career opportunities, a healthier lifestyle, and a stronger sense of community.
Every year, Mercer’s Quality of Living Survey evaluates more than 230 cities worldwide to determine which locations provide the best quality of life for expatriates and professionals.
The annual ranking considers political stability, urban development, air quality, public services, education, and access to essential amenities. While US cities are gaining ground, European cities continue to dominate the top of the list, with Switzerland and Austria leading the way.
Consistently ranking at the top, Zurich has earned its reputation as one of the best quality-of-life cities in the world. This Swiss financial and cultural hub boasts a nearly unmatched combination of high educational attainment, exceptional public transportation, and meticulous urban environments.
Residents enjoy clean streets, low air pollution, abundant green areas, and easy access to the Alps and major European business centers.
Zurich also offers a wealth of outdoor recreational activities, fine dining, museums, and international schools, making it attractive to families and corporate offices relocating talent. It’s not just a financial powerhouse. It’s a lifestyle leader, balancing work and well-being for residents and visitors.
As the capital of Austria, Vienna offers a rich blend of imperial charm and modern-day innovation. A top contender in Mercer’s living survey year after year, Vienna consistently delivers in areas such as safety, infrastructure, and cultural richness.
The city is home to some of the world’s most esteemed universities, opera houses, and research institutions, reinforcing its position as an education and innovation hub. Its commitment to affordable housing and urban green space has made it a model of inclusive urban development.
Vienna’s focus on political stability, cultural preservation, and environmental responsibility illustrates how European cities can retain their historical identity while still evolving for the future. It is no surprise that Vienna holds a top spot not just in Mercer’s ranking but in many other global life index surveys.
Another gem in Switzerland’s crown, Geneva stands out for its status as a global city with a humanitarian heart. Home to the United Nations and numerous international organizations, Geneva exemplifies city attractiveness from a diplomatic and lifestyle perspective.
Geneva offers an excellent quality of healthcare, bilingual education, and efficient public services—all underpinned by strong political stability and safety. Like Zurich, Geneva thrives on its pristine environment, stunning lake views, and proximity to the Alps, which support a strong culture of outdoor recreation and healthy living.
The city’s international nature supports a high degree of diversity, making it welcoming to expats, digital nomads, and multinational professionals. Geneva’s strategic location at the crossroads of France, Italy, and Germany adds to its global influence and accessibility.
The Best Cities ranking by Resonance Consultancy evaluates the world’s most desirable global cities based on various metrics, from urban development, educational attainment, and economic prosperity to cultural offerings, infrastructure, and social media presence.
While Mercer’s Quality of Living Survey emphasizes expat-friendly amenities and political stability, Best Cities takes a more multidimensional approach, capturing hard data and qualitative perceptions of a city’s commitment to livability.
The capital of the United Kingdom consistently takes a top spot in the Best Cities rankings. London is more than a historical seat of power; it's a modern, dynamic metropolis that excels in innovation, diversity, and global influence.
As a cultural hub, London offers world-renowned museums, fine dining, performing arts, and academic institutions. The city is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities and continues attracting international businesses, making it a key destination for corporate offices and digital nomads.
Despite challenges like climate change and Brexit-related transitions, London has maintained high city attractiveness due to its investment in public infrastructure, extensive bike paths, and commitment to green initiatives. Its global standing is further bolstered by its consistent inclusion in Mercer’s global top 50, reinforcing the capital’s resilience and enduring appeal.
As one of the most iconic US cities, New York continues to earn its place in the Best Cities list and Mercer’s Quality of Living rankings. Known for its fast-paced lifestyle and immense economic clout, New York also delivers a surprising depth of quality of life features that extend beyond its skyline.
From Central Park to the Hudson River’s vibrant green areas, the city blends urban environments with pockets of nature that allow for outdoor recreational activities and relaxation amid the hustle. The city’s unparalleled cultural offerings, including Broadway, world-class museums, and a global culinary scene, make it a magnet for residents and visitors alike.
New York’s diversity is its strength—it is a melting pot of ethnicities, languages, and industries. With a vast public transit network, numerous top-tier hospitals, and globally respected education institutions, New York is well-equipped to serve a growing and dynamic population.
Moreover, it remains one of the top global cities for business expansion, particularly for companies seeking entry into the North American market. New York’s inclusion in Mercer’s global top 50 and the Best Cities index proves that, despite its fast pace and complexity, it is still one of the most livable cities in the world.
Romanticized for its beauty and elegance, Paris also shines as a modern European city that balances lifestyle with leadership. Ranked highly by Best Cities, Paris continues to make its mark through cultural relevance, strong infrastructure, and evolving urban development policies.
With world-famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, Paris has long been a cultural hub. It's also a serious player in international diplomacy and business. The city is home to major multinational firms and the European Union’s business ecosystem, and it is a beacon for international businesses looking to establish themselves in the region.
Paris has been investing in affordable housing, green mobility solutions, and sustainable design in response to rising demand and the threats posed by climate change. Despite periodic challenges like transit strikes or air pollution, its resilient policies and cultural dynamism continue to keep it among the best quality-of-life cities in the world.
The Global Cities Index, developed by Oxford Economics, offers another insightful lens for evaluating the best quality of life in cities worldwide. Unlike more lifestyle-centric rankings, this index focuses on economic performance, infrastructure, human capital, and quality of life as part of a city's long-term global influence.
Cities that excel in these metrics are where international businesses want to invest, governments focus on urban development strategies, and digital nomads see sustainable prospects.
This time, New York again secures a top spot in the Global Cities Index due to economic scale, global connectivity, and multi-industry leadership. Its GDP surpasses that of many entire nations, making it a gravitational hub for corporate offices, international businesses, and entrepreneurial talent.
Beyond economic strength, New York also ranks highly for education, infrastructure, and cultural appeal. Its world-renowned universities, thriving arts scene, and extensive transit system support both economic dynamism and a vibrant day-to-day life for its diverse residents.
New York's multi-layered impact across finance, tech, healthcare, and media makes it particularly significant in this index, contributing to a high life index score. Despite challenges such as air pollution, housing pressures, and urban density, New York’s commitment to green areas and public services continues to make it one of the most livable cities in the world.
London's presence in the Global Cities Index underscores its versatility and resilience as a city. Already recognized in the Best Cities list, London also stands strong for its strategic role in global commerce, diplomacy, and innovation.
The city’s diverse population and global reach give it a unique advantage in cultural offerings, political stability, and education. London remains a key center for corporate offices and urban development because of the continuous investment in public infrastructure, digital networks, and clean energy solutions, efforts that are vital in combating climate change and sustaining long-term quality of life.
In recent years, London has expanded access to outdoor recreation and improved its bike paths, reflecting its commitment to healthier living. Combined with its rich arts scene, historical charm, and strong legal institutions, London proves itself time and again to be more than just a European city—it’s a global city with eyes on the future.
A standout among US cities, San Jose earns its ranking due to its integral role in Silicon Valley and its impressive balance of work-life dynamics. As the epicenter of tech innovation, San Jose benefits from high educational attainment, top-tier infrastructure, and one of the highest household incomes in the United States.
San Jose's clean urban environments, emphasis on affordable housing, and proximity to nature give it a well-rounded appeal. State parks and ocean views surround it, and ample outdoor recreational activities make it especially attractive to digital nomads, families, and young professionals.
Moreover, San Jose’s investment in sustainability and smart city initiatives shows a long-term commitment to adapting to environmental and economic shifts. The city's air quality is generally superior to other large metros, and it has taken bold steps to curb air pollution through green zoning, electric vehicle programs, and urban development projects.
When evaluating the best quality of life cities in the world, it’s impossible to overlook the growing appeal of US cities—especially for expats looking to relocate or professionals on overseas assignments.
According to Mercer's Quality of Living Survey, several American cities have steadily climbed in the annual ranking, offering strong public services, educational attainment, outdoor recreation, and an emphasis on sustainable urban development.
Boston, Massachusetts, consistently ranks high in Mercer’s Quality reports due to its academic excellence, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and vibrant innovation ecosystem. Home to some of the world’s most renowned universities, Boston is a beacon of education, tech research, and medical innovation.
The city’s commitment to green policies, public transport access, and outdoor recreational activities makes it especially appealing to families, students, and digital nomads. Boston also offers excellent air quality and green spaces, including the Boston Common and Emerald Necklace Park system, which add to the overall quality of life.
With an engaged local government addressing climate change and infrastructure, Boston reflects a forward-thinking urban environment ideal for residents and international businesses looking for sustainable, innovation-driven cities.
Often associated with Silicon Valley, San Francisco boasts more than just a tech pedigree. It’s a cultural hub with world-class museums, an iconic dining scene, and a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion.
The city is also deeply invested in green areas, bike paths, and maintaining a clean and accessible urban environment. From Golden Gate Park to Ocean Beach, outdoor recreation opportunities abound, giving locals and visitors plenty of room to recharge.
Though often debated for housing costs, San Francisco’s high life index stems from robust public services, stellar education, and proximity to cutting-edge corporate offices. It’s also a central node for global travel, commerce, and culture, making it one of North America's most influential global cities.
Known for its scenic beauty and laid-back atmosphere, Honolulu, Hawaii, offers something unique among US cities. It scores high on quality of life, not just because of its environment but also because of its strong safety, political stability, and community-focused planning.
Honolulu’s abundant outdoor recreational activities, such as surfing, hiking, snorkeling, and more, are unmatched. The city's air quality is among the cleanest in the country, and its approach to urban development ensures the preservation of natural spaces alongside essential infrastructure.
For digital nomads and remote workers, Honolulu offers an idyllic blend of work and play, reliable connectivity, cultural richness, and a close-knit community. Its inclusion in Mercer’s list reflects how environmental quality and city attractiveness can create the ideal urban environment.
While often known for its entertainment industry, Los Angeles is a global tech, healthcare, and education player. It offers a unique fusion of fine dining, cultural offerings, and innovation underpinned by extensive infrastructure investment.
L.A.’s cultural diversity means that residents benefit from global cuisines, vibrant neighborhoods, and multilingual services. The city’s commitment to expanding bike paths, addressing air pollution, and adapting to climate change challenges positions it as a future-forward urban environment.
Los Angeles also houses many corporate offices, particularly in the tech, biotech, and media sectors, making it a strategic relocation destination for international businesses. Whether you're a professional, artist, or academic, L.A. is a dynamic, world-class city that balances opportunity with lifestyle.
A longtime darling of the Pacific Northwest, Portland, Oregon, shines for its environmental consciousness, innovative urban development, and high-quality public services. Known for its emphasis on sustainability, Portland integrates nature into its city core, offering abundant green areas and miles of bike paths.
Portland’s public transport, walkable neighborhoods, and farmer’s markets make daily life accessible and enjoyable. The city is also noted for its progressive environmental policies and community activism, actively working to counteract climate change.
Portland balances hipster charm with economic growth, from microbreweries to indie bookstores and sprawling parks to high-tech startups. It’s a top pick for digital nomads, expats, and residents seeking a more human-scaled and sustainable lifestyle.
As the nation’s capital, Washington, DC, plays a crucial role in governance, diplomacy, and public policy. But beyond its monuments and political power, DC offers excellent educational attainment, cultural richness, and robust infrastructure.
DC attracts many professionals and scholars because it has access to globally recognized universities, embassies, and think tanks. DC’s museums, including the Smithsonian Institution, offer free access to cultural enrichment year-round, a major factor in its attractiveness.
The city’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its green building initiatives, public transit, and ongoing investments in affordable housing. With a diverse population, strong services, and proximity to international decision-making centers, Washington, DC, stands as one of the world's most strategically important and livable cities.
Expats open to taking a less-traveled path may also consider emerging cities with a lot to offer in terms of quality of life. But while such cities are full of excitement, innovation, and fresh opportunities, they also have their share of risks. Moving to a growing city requires more than just enthusiasm; it demands research, patience, and a strong understanding of what life will be like.
Before you leap, remember these important reminders to ensure your new adventure is sustainable and happy.
Fast-growing cities can experience growing pains, like traffic congestion, housing shortages, or stretched public services.
Emerging cities can feel exciting but transitional. Make sure you're comfortable living in a place that is still finding its long-term identity.
Check if the city has solid plans for public transport, green spaces, healthcare, and education, not just hype.
While some emerging cities boom, others may rely too heavily on one industry. A more diverse economy is safer for long-term stability.
Housing prices and daily expenses can rise quickly as a city becomes more popular. Budget for today, but plan for tomorrow.
Growth can sometimes outpace law enforcement and social services. Review crime statistics and government resources before making a move.
Newer cities may lack established expat communities or services. Make sure you’ll have access to networks that can support your transition.
Some emerging cities may be more vulnerable to climate change impacts, such as flooding, droughts, or extreme heat. Consider their long-term livability.
Emerging cities might have different visa policies, especially in the Middle East, Asia, or South America. Make sure your status will be stable.
Nothing replaces firsthand experience. Before making big decisions, visit the city, explore neighborhoods, talk to locals, and feel the rhythm of daily life.
Quality-of-life rankings are tools, but only if you know how to read between the lines. These annual lists offer valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of different cities, but no ranking can perfectly capture your unique needs.
Check which areas they excel in, not just focusing on a city’s rank, like healthcare, safety, education, or environmental sustainability.
A city great for young professionals might not be the best for retirees. Choose a city that fits your specific stage of life and plans.
Quality of life also depends on job opportunities in your field. Check if the city supports your industry and growth goals.
Good healthcare systems and access to wellness resources can make a huge difference in your life abroad.
If you’re moving with a family, find cities with high education quality and family-friendly infrastructure.
Watch how rankings change year over year. Cities evolve. A rising star city today could be a leader tomorrow. Always use the most current rankings and check trends.
Top cities might offer an amazing quality of life, but at a price. Always weigh living costs against the lifestyle advantages.
Cities investing in green energy, public parks, and climate action plans will likely offer healthier, future-proof living environments.
Numbers can’t tell you everything. Join expat forums, travel blogs, and city guides to get a feel for daily life and social vibes.
Think five to ten years ahead. Choose a city where you can enjoy today and grow personally and professionally in the future.
What makes a city great today won’t necessarily be enough tomorrow. The cities poised to dominate the future quality-of-life rankings are focusing now on environmental resilience, inclusive urban development, smart technology, and community well-being.
We're seeing strong trends toward:
Green urban planning (more parks, sustainable transport)
Smart cities (using data and tech to improve everyday life)
Affordable, accessible healthcare and housing
Cultural inclusivity and social cohesion
Climate change preparedness (especially for coastal cities)
Reminder: Many cities offer public consultations on their plans. If you’re moving locally, attending a few can give you insider insight into how your potential new home plans for the future.
Insurance Reminder: As cities grow smarter and greener, healthcare standards and costs change. Always ensure that your international health insurance for expats is flexible enough to adapt to evolving city healthcare systems.
From the walkable streets of Vienna to the innovative spirit of San Francisco, the best quality-of-life cities continue to set the standard for modern living. These places aren’t just impressive on paper; they’re cities where people feel healthier, more connected, and inspired to build better futures.
If you're dreaming about relocating or simply curious about where life can flourish, understanding what makes these cities shine is a great first step. At WellAway, we’re passionate about helping you stay informed and inspired about global living.
In a constantly changing world, choosing where to live isn’t just about geography. It’s about lifestyle, opportunity, and the future you want to create. These cities show us what’s possible when a place is designed with people in mind. Now, it’s your move!