World's 5 most liveable cities in 2025

The concept of "liveability" is more than just a sense of comfort; it is a rigorous metric used by economists and urban planners to gauge the quality of life in cities across the globe. For 2025, the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) Global Liveability Index has revealed a significant shake-up at the summit. After a three-year reign, Vienna has been dethroned, signalling a shift in how stability and safety are impacting global urban rankings.

The 2025 index ranks 173 cities based on five key categories: Stability, Healthcare, Culture & Environment, Education, and Infrastructure. To achieve a top score, a city must offer a seamless blend of safety, world-class services, and a vibrant cultural life.

Here are the top 5 most liveable cities in 2025 and the reasons behind their success.

1. Copenhagen, Denmark

In 2025, the Danish capital claimed the title of the world's most liveable city. While Copenhagen has always been a top contender, it surged to the number one spot this year by achieving perfect scores in three critical categories: Stability, Education, and Infrastructure.

Copenhagen represents the modern urban ideal, a city that functions almost effortlessly. Its infrastructure score is increased by a highly efficient, clean, and reliable public transport network and a cycling culture that reduces traffic congestion and pollution.

Unlike many of its European peers, which saw stability scores dip due to geopolitical tensions or civil unrest, Copenhagen has remained an oasis of calm and safety, pushing it ahead of former champion Vienna. The city is also celebrated for its progressive social policies, where residents enjoy ample leisure time, access to free high-quality education, and a healthcare system that is accessible to all.

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2. Vienna, Austria (Tied)

For years, Vienna was the undisputed champion of liveability. In 2025, it slips to second place, tied with Zurich. However, this drop is not due to a decline in services; Vienna still holds perfect scores in Healthcare, Education, and Infrastructure.

The city’s "Stability" score took a hit in 2025 following specific security scares, including high-profile event cancellations due to terrorism threats. This deduction was enough to allow Copenhagen to pass it. Vienna remains unparalleled in culture. From its historic coffee houses to state-funded opera and museums, the city offers a richness of life that few can match. Its social housing program is also a global model, ensuring that the high quality of life remains affordable for residents, not just the wealthy.

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2. Zurich, Switzerland (Tied)

Tied with Vienna for the second spot, Zurich is often viewed as the financial engine of Switzerland, but it is also an exceptionally green and liveable metropolis.

Zurich scores exceptionally high in stability and infrastructure. It is a wealthy city where public services are heavily funded and meticulously maintained. What sets Zurich apart is its integration of nature. The city is built around the pristine Lake Zurich and the Limmat River, offering residents immediate access to swimming and sailing in water clean enough to drink. It remains one of the safest cities in the world, with low crime rates and a high degree of civil order, making it attractive for families and expatriates.

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4. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne has consistently been the highest-ranked city outside of Europe, and in 2025, it establishes its position as the world's fourth most liveable city. It famously held the #1 title for seven consecutive years in the past and remains a powerhouse of liveability. Melbourne shines in the "Culture and Environment" category. It is the sporting capital of Australia (hosting the Australian Open and F1 Grand Prix) and boasts a world-famous coffee and culinary scene. The city receives near-perfect marks for its healthcare system and education infrastructure. Unlike some of the more homogenous European cities on the list, Melbourne is celebrated for its multiculturalism.

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5. Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva rounds out the top five, giving Switzerland two entries in the elite tier. As a global hub for diplomacy and banking, Geneva offers a unique atmosphere of internationalism.

Geneva scores a perfect 100 in education. Home to numerous international schools and high-ranking universities, it is a magnet for families prioritising academic excellence. The city sits at the heart of the global health conversation (home to the WHO) and its local healthcare services reflect this, offering some of the best medical care on the planet. Situated on the edge of the Alps and the vast Lake Geneva, the city offers residents a high-quality outdoor lifestyle that balances the intensity of its professional sector.

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Trends in 2025

The 2025 rankings highlight a crucial trend: Stability is the differentiator. While the top cities all possess excellent infrastructure and healthcare, the cities that avoided civil unrest and security threats (like Copenhagen and Zurich) maintained or improved their positions. On the other hand, cities in regions facing social tension saw their rankings stagnate or drop. As we move further into the decade, safety and political stability are becoming the most valuable currencies in the global market for liveability.