As remote work continues to rise and digital nomadism becomes increasingly popular, many Americans are considering relocating to cities that offer a better quality of life. If you’re thinking about making the leap but haven’t yet decided on your destination, Mercer’s newly released Quality of Living City Ranking for 2024 might help guide your choice.
This annual report evaluates over 240 cities worldwide across various factors, including housing, recreation, socio-cultural environment, purchasing power, air quality, traffic, and access to education.
What stands out this year is the unexpected city topping the list. The city ranked number one is not a typical tourist magnet, nor a frequently mentioned expat hub. It’s Zurich, Switzerland — a city that has quietly emerged as the best place in the world for quality of life.
Why Zurich is the Best City for Expats
Mercer’s report highlights Zurich’s exceptional public services, low crime rates, and vibrant cultural scene, all supported by efficient infrastructure and a strong commitment to sustainability. Zurich also boasts a well-connected international airport, which has expanded its global links, offering an increasing number of flights to and from major destinations worldwide.
As a result, Zurich has established itself not only as a financial and cultural powerhouse but also as a top destination for those seeking a stable, high-quality lifestyle.
Top 10 Cities for Quality of Life in 2024
In Mercer’s 2024 ranking, Europe dominates the list, with eight out of the top ten cities located on the continent. Switzerland, in particular, stands out with four cities in the top ten. Here’s a look at the top destinations for quality of life:
- Zurich, Switzerland
- Vienna, Austria
- Geneva, Switzerland
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Auckland, New Zealand
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Frankfurt, Germany (tied with Vancouver, Canada)
- Vancouver, Canada (tied with Frankfurt)
- Bern, Switzerland
- Basel, Switzerland
Interestingly, the highest-ranking North American city is Vancouver, tied for seventh place. The United States is less prominent on the list, with Boston ranking 32nd, followed by San Francisco (36th), Honolulu (39th), Los Angeles (44th), and New York (45th).
The Worst Cities for Expats
On the flip side, Mercer’s rankings also highlight the cities where expats might want to reconsider relocating due to challenging conditions. The bottom ten cities for quality of life are predominantly located in regions experiencing political instability or economic hardship. These include:
- Tripoli, Libya
- Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
- Damascus, Syria
- N’djamena, Chad
- Port-Au-Prince, Haiti
- Sanaa, Yemen
- Bangui, Central African Republic
- Baghdad, Iraq
- Khartoum, Sudan
While Zurich takes the crown for the best quality of life, the rankings underline a broader trend of European cities emerging as prime choices for those seeking an ideal place to live, work, and thrive.
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