There are a number of reasons why some cities enjoy global popularity, attracting people from all walks of life. Quality of life is always important, with people prioritising clean air, adequate modern infrastructure to support a high-end lifestyle as well as access to all the essential services such as healthcare and education. Cities that excel in this criteria become highly desirable to families and individuals. More recently, trends and priorities have shifted, with more people starting to value diversity and cultural richness as well as innovation and sustainable living. This movement has been spearheaded by people’s desire to be more inclusive and the global drive to protect the planet.
In 2024, the perfect city would combine an excellent quality of life with an inclusive and environmentally friendly environment. Cities like Copenhagen and Singapore excel with their use of renewable energy sources while places like Toronto are standouts for their progressive policies and multicultural experience. The best cities today are those that can adapt to the evolving needs of the residents, whether through a thriving economy, innovative technology, or an array of recreational activities to choose from.
21st-century cities are tasked with blending cutting-edge technology with human-centred strategies in a way that fosters a sustainable, equal, and lively future. This guide will highlight some of the cities across the world that have adapted to this new age and its lofty expectations with ease.
Vienna, Austria
Not only is Vienna a historical gem, but it is also officially the most liveable city in the world and an example of good quality of life in an increasingly modern world. With a unique mix of eco-friendly transportation, stunning parks, and the finest range of culinary and artistic attractions, Vienna excels across a staggering amount of liveability categories. Viennese cuisine is the only cuisine to be named after a city in the world, so exploring this renowned culinary delight is a must and Vienna has that covered. With a whole host of Michelin-starred restaurants such as Juan Amador’s eatery ‘Amador’ and Steirereck in the Stadtpark, fine dining and Viennese food go hand in hand. Vienna is also an international metropolis due to its central location in the heart of Europe and boasts flawless scores in stability, healthcare, and education.
Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne, often hailed as the cultural capital of Australia, consistently finds itself ranked highly among the world’s most liveable cities. The city has the perfect balance of diversity and economic innovation and draws professionals and entrepreneurs from all over the globe with the promise of abundant career opportunities in an inclusive environment. Melbourne is home to a number of iconic arts institutions like the National Gallery of Victoria which regularly hosts top-quality exhibitions and the Melbourne Arts Centre, a renowned performing arts hub. A high quality of life is easily achievable in Melbourne thanks to its excellent healthcare and public services. Education is another area where the city excels as it is home to two of Australia’s top universities, the University of Melbourne and Monash University. With a thriving sports culture and stunning areas of natural beauty, Melbourne has a lot to offer to anyone looking to move abroad.
Calgary, Canada
In the Economist Intelligence Unit’s annual list, Calgary ranked as the most liveable city in North America. This ranking is based off a number of factors that are a testament to the high quality of life and the vast opportunities in this city. However, the natural beauty of Calgary and Canada as a whole and its ability to draw people in should not be underestimated. Not only is Calgary located close to the natural world, but it has actually incorporated aspects of nature into its city design, contributing to a small city feel with all the amenities of a much larger one. The city also has a lucrative oil and gas industry as well as a large community of white-collar businesses so the economy is booming, jobs are plentiful and as a result, people have the means to enjoy themselves. Bars and restaurants are regularly full and nightlife is bustling and enjoyable for people of all ages.
Osaka, Japan
Osaka, while not as big or busy as Tokyo, manages to leave residents with no shortage of convenient amenities and significantly less stress. Trains are plentiful and run often, infrastructure is second to none and residents appreciate the ease a smaller city brings to their daily lives. The city is known as ‘Japan’s Kitchen’ due to its thriving culinary scene with the food being hailed as diverse, enjoyable, and some of the best in the country. It is also an incredibly friendly city, which cannot be said for many other cities across the world. In Osaka, while the nature of many people in big cities is to mind their own business, people want to converse, and make friends and are more than happy to give up their train seat to a child or someone elderly. It is this willingness to accept newcomers that adds to the ease of settling in which is vitally important when you move to a new city.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai, a modern, rapidly expanding city is unrivalled in its ability to attract millions of foreign nationals. It is known for its harmony and tolerance as one of the world’s most diverse, multicultural destinations, blending tradition and hospitality with modern influence to create a great living environment. For families and individuals seeking an elevated lifestyle, Dubai is the ideal choice. With its knowledge-based economy and flood of investors and entrepreneurs as well as a famously low-tax regime, Dubai is perfect for the wealthy whose desire is to continue to prosper. Home to some of the finest modern architecture in the world and a remarkable variety of shopping and dining offerings, Dubai is the ultimate destination for a luxury lifestyle.
The most liveable cities of the modern age offer a cohesive blend of economic opportunity, high life quality, safety, and cultural richness with a sprinkle of sustainable innovation and inclusivity. This makes them the ideal place to not only work and live but also to thrive.
