Thinking of Moving Abroad? These Are the World’s Most Livable Cities in 2026

The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) released its 2026 Global Liveability Index on November 20, 2026, ranking cities based on factors including stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. Vienna, Austria, secured the top spot for the third consecutive year, praised for its exceptional stability and robust public services. Copenhagen, Denmark, and Melbourne, Australia, followed closely in second and third place, respectively, both recognized for their high scores in culture, education, and infrastructure. Zurich, Switzerland, and Calgary, Canada, rounded out the top five, with Zurich noted for its stability and healthcare, and Calgary for its strong infrastructure and education systems. The index evaluates 172 cities worldwide, with this year's report highlighting the resilience of many cities in maintaining high living standards despite ongoing global challenges. Cities in Western Europe and Canada dominated the upper echelons of the rankings, reflecting consistent investment in public services and urban development. The EIU's methodology considers over 30 qualitative and quantitative indicators to provide a comprehensive assessment of urban living conditions.