Vienna, long celebrated as the world's most liveable city for foreign residents, has been pushed into second place in Mercer’s Quality of Living Ranking for 2024. Switzerland’s Zurich has now taken the top spot - even if not by many points, according to the international ranking.
Mercer’s report evaluates cities based on factors like infrastructure, housing, healthcare, education, and cultural life. While Vienna continues to perform strongly, a growing issue with rental housing availability for international professionals has impacted its ranking, ORF reported.
Why Zurich is number one
Zurich’s success is attributed to its excellent public services, low crime rates, and vibrant cultural scene.
Mercer also praised the Swiss city for its sustainability initiatives and improved intercontinental flight connections. However, Zurich’s high cost of living, particularly for housing and basic goods, remains challenging for those considering relocation.
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Geneva, another Swiss city, follows Vienna in third place, while Copenhagen and Auckland round out the top five. Vancouver ties for seventh place and is the only North American city in the top ten.
Why Vienna fell behind
Vienna’s slip in Mercer’s ranking is mainly due to a tight rental housing market, which has made it harder for international workers to find suitable accommodation.
While Vienna excels in public transport, healthcare, and cultural opportunities, the availability of rental properties has become a pressing concern for foreign residents.
“Vienna has dropped one position in our ranking compared to the previous year. This can be attributed to the decline in the availability of rental properties suitable for international expatriates,” said Markus Kurth, Mercer’s Global Mobility Practice Lead for Germany and Austria. Despite this, Vienna remains an attractive option with specific praises for its internet connectivity and overall quality of infrastructure.
Vienna loses its top spot in another ranking
This is not the first time the Austrian capital has lost a top spot in a world ranking this year.
Vienna also lost its top position in the Ease of Settling In Index by InterNations. The city, previously known as the “unfriendliest” for international residents, still ranks poorly for social integration—but it is not the worst. In the latest survey, Vienna was not as unfriendly as Berlin and Munich.
While fewer respondents reported dissatisfaction with their social lives in Vienna compared to previous years, the city still faces challenges.
According to InterNations, Vienna placed 51st for Local Friendliness, reflecting ongoing struggles with connecting to locals.
READ ALSO: 'Rotes Wien': How Vienna tackled housing and inequality in the 20th century
Global liveability trends
The Mercer report highlights broader trends shaping liveability for foreign residents. Cities that balance quality of life with affordability tend to rank higher.
Zurich’s strong public services and safety measures helped secure its top spot, even with its high costs. In contrast, Vienna’s housing challenges underscore how a lack of adaptability can affect a city’s appeal.
Other highlights from the study include Singapore, which leads Asia at 30th place, and Boston, ranked 32nd as the top U.S. city. Meanwhile, cities such as Baghdad and Khartoum remain at the bottom due to ongoing instability.
What this means for immigrants in Austria
Despite its drop to second place, Vienna remains a desirable destination for immigrants.
The city continues to offer excellent public services, a vibrant cultural life, and reliable healthcare. However, prospective immigrants should prepare for challenges in finding rental housing and adapting to local social networks.
Mercer’s findings, combined with InterNations’ insights, suggest that Vienna’s enduring strengths still make it a popular choice for international residents. However, addressing its housing shortage and improving social integration will be key to further enhancing its appeal.
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