Every year, the Economist Intelligence Unit evaluates the quality of life in cities across the globe. In 2025, their Global Liveability Index ranked 173 cities using metrics like stability, healthcare, education, culture, and infrastructure. While many of the world’s most liveable cities remain familiar, this year brought a new name to the top of the list.
Here’s a look at the 10 most liveable cities in the world in 2025.
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
Overall Score: 98.0
For the first time, Denmark’s capital claims the number one spot. With perfect scores in stability, education, and infrastructure, Copenhagen blends Scandinavian elegance with real-world efficiency. Locals cycle to work along tree-lined canals, families enjoy free higher education, and everyone benefits from clean energy and low crime rates. It’s not just liveable — it’s exemplary.
2. Vienna, Austria (tie)
Overall Score: 97.8
Long the reigning champion, Vienna slips just slightly to second place. Still, the city remains a cultural jewel, with a thriving arts scene, imperial charm, and pristine public transport. Its high quality of life is rooted in history and bolstered by innovation.
2. Zurich, Switzerland (tie)
Overall Score: 97.8
Sharing the runner-up position, Zurich impresses with its lakeside tranquillity and Alpine precision. The Swiss financial hub excels in safety, education, and green spaces, consistently ranking as a high performer in liveability rankings.
4. Melbourne, Australia
Overall Score: 97.7
Melbourne’s coffee culture, creative energy, and strong healthcare system make it the most liveable city in the Southern Hemisphere. The city continues to climb back to the top after pandemic-era dips in ranking.
5. Geneva, Switzerland
Overall Score: 97.5
Nestled between lake and mountains, Geneva scores high for political stability, healthcare, and internationalism. As home to global organisations and luxury living, it offers a uniquely cosmopolitan lifestyle.
6. Sydney, Australia
Overall Score: 97.5
Australia’s harbour city maintains its spot in the top 10, thanks to world-class healthcare, beautiful beaches, and a multicultural population. Though housing costs remain high, the lifestyle remains enviable.
7. Osaka, Japan (tie)
Overall Score: 96.9
Osaka ranks as Asia’s most liveable city, combining safety, exceptional cuisine, and efficient public services. A vibrant contrast to Tokyo’s pace, Osaka is increasingly popular among expats.
7. Auckland, New Zealand (tie)
Overall Score: 96.9
Auckland’s comeback continues, boosted by clean air, outdoor access, and a laid-back urban vibe. Though small in scale, it punches above its weight in lifestyle satisfaction.
9. Adelaide, Australia
Overall Score: 96.8
Adelaide shines with affordability, festivals, and food. A quiet achiever on this list, it remains one of the best cities in Australia for balance between city life and nature.
10. Vancouver, Canada
Overall Score: 96.3
Rounding out the top 10, Vancouver offers urban vibrancy and mountain-backed serenity. It’s a magnet for outdoor lovers and tech talent alike — a true west coast gem.
Why These Cities Are More Than Just Liveable
This year’s rankings reinforce the idea that liveability isn’t just about size or fame — it’s about thoughtful urban planning, equitable access to services, and a sense of well-being. Whether it’s Copenhagen’s eco-conscious charm or Melbourne’s creative pulse, the world’s most liveable cities in 2025 each offer a compelling blueprint for a life well lived. As urban centres worldwide strive to adapt to a rapidly changing world, these top performers set the gold standard for the future of city living.
