Travel has made the world feel like no place on earth is now unreachable. Not only is it now possible for people to visit other countries more easily than in the past, but the choices about where to make a home are larger than ever.
What makes a destination a great place to live is somewhat dependent on personal preferences, but common criteria tend to include the culture and environment, infrastructure, healthcare, stability, and education standards.
This guide rounds up a selection of cities that can offer a high quality of life by taking a closer look at what each destination has to offer for those wishing to relocate.
Whether you’re considering making a move overseas yourself, or just curious about some of the best places to live in the world, read on to uncover the best destinations.
Dubai
The futuristic city of Dubai is attracting growing numbers of people from around the world, thanks in no small part to the excellent standards of living available. As one of the safest cities in the world, with a booming economy, multiple job opportunities, great infrastructure, and tax-free income, it’s easy to see why Dubai is an attractive place to live. There is plenty to keep residents entertained outside of working hours, like world-class entertainment, shopping, dining, and attractive nightlife.
Dubai also offers an abundance of accommodation options to suit all needs. Popular areas include Palm Jumeirah, Downtown, Dubai Marina, and the Dubai Hills Estate. Palm Jumeirah is home to numerous upmarket apartment towers, global restaurants, and breathtaking coastal views. Dubai Hills Estate is designed to be more family-centric, an ideal place for families and golfers, with premier schools close by and everything from villas to apartments to choose from.
Sydney
With its blend of breathtaking scenery and all the benefits of a major global city, Sydney is unlike anywhere else in the world. This Australian city is perfect for those who love an outdoor lifestyle, with stunning beaches like Manly and Bondi, an incredible harbour, plus multiple national parks on its doorstep. There is plenty of culture to soak up too, with the world-famous Sydney Opera House being just one of the venues hosting events and performances from some of the world’s biggest names in arts and culture.
Job opportunities are good in Sydney, with many leading global businesses operating in the city across sectors including IT, media, healthcare, and finance. Foodies will find a phenomenal range of global cuisine on offer reflecting the diverse nationalities who call the city home, plus a world-class café culture. Getting around is easy thanks to a well-connected bus and train system, plus the famous ferries which are a popular way of commuting and getting around for many locals. While property prices in Sydney are on the higher side, many locals find the standard of living on offer here makes that worth dealing with.
Vienna
The Austrian capital is regularly honoured as one of the best cities in the world for its quality of life. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, history, and culture, reflected in its world-class museums and arguably unmatched classical music scene.
Vienna is a safe place to live, has plenty of green spaces, high-quality healthcare, incredible education, great public transport, and a good work-life balance. When they aren’t working, locals can spend time relaxing with a stroll along the Danube River, exploring the Schönbrunn Palace or the numerous parks, or sampling those famous pastries at a traditional coffeehouse. The cost of living here is relatively lower than other major European cities, and its property market is considered stable.
Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a city with a strong sense of community, mixing its stunning historical elements with progressive modern living. The capital of Denmark is home to around 1.4 million and has become known for its cleanliness, environmentally friendly efforts, and culture of getting around by bicycle. As well as some stunning architecture and canals, Copenhagen hosts some of the world’s best Michelin-starred restaurants and interesting attractions, like the historic Tivoli Gardens amusement park, and plenty of free-to-enter galleries and parks.
Locals benefit from living in a nation that places value on wellness. This shines through with many workplaces offering policies focused on supporting employees such as flexible working hours. Even in its cold, dark winter months, Copenhagen residents have plenty to smile about.
Vancouver
Located close to the mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver offers residents easy access to nature and incredible urban living. This is a great place for adventure lovers, with the opportunity for activities like skiing and hiking on their doorstep. With a milder climate in comparison to other parts of Canada, Vancouver is a great option for those who would rather avoid the worst of the country’s notoriously cold winters.
The economy is strong with good job opportunities across a number of sectors, like technology, film and television, and finance. Good healthcare, a buzzing food and drink and cultural scene, and a high standard of education on offer, make Vancouver popular with both single professionals and families.
The world is a big place, but the 21st century options for travel and movement are making it much smaller, so your choices are wider than ever with so much to see, experience, and explore.
