10 Most Livable Cities in the World 2012

In the past I’ve featured rankings that have recognized Canada or Toronto on a global scale such as the smartest countries, the happiest countries, the best countries for entrepreneurs, the best countries to live, best cities to live in the world, 15 Most Competitive Cities in the World and best city of opportunity . I’m continuing that trend by seeing how Canadian cities faired on the list of the World’s Most Livable Cities.

The report was released by The Economist’s research arm known as the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The EIU has been ranking the best city to live and the most livable cities in the world for years.

This list ranks 140 cities and uses a variety of criteria like: state of healthcare, education, infrastructure, stability, culture and environment. The result is a score out of 100 and the top 10 livable cities according to these rankings are included below:

1.  Melbourne, Australia, which received a rating of 97.5
   

   Toronto skyline

2. Vienna, Austria, which received a rating of 97.4
3. Vancouver, Canada, which received a rating of 97. 3
4. Toronto, Canada, which received a rating of 97. 2
5. Calgary, Canada, which received a rating of 96.6
6. Adelaide, Australia, which received a rating of 96.6
7. Sidney, Australia, which received a rating of 96.1
8. Helsinki, Finland, which received a rating of 96.0
9. Perth, Australia, which received a rating of 95.9
10. Auckland, New Zealand, which received a rating of 95.7

Canada had three cities in the top ten and the only other Canadian city on list was Montreal which ranked 16th. Only one other country out performed Canada in this listing and that was Australia. The National Post wrote that “the authors say the trend among the most liveable cities shows a preference for ‘mid-sized cities in wealthier countries with a relatively low population density.’ Canada’s density is 3.40 people per square kilometre, while Australia’s is 2.88.”

Overall this listing was not vastly different than the one that was published six months ago as Vancouver maintained their 3rd place ranking.

EIU believes that their listings are particularly invaluable to corporations that do business internationally. Their reasoning is that employees who reside “where living conditions are particularly difficult” should receive compensation. Companies can use this analysis to better assess and understand the working and living conditions of those they employ.

These listings also help to market the cities that rank favourably to professionals looking to move. “‘It’s certainly circulated to an audience of potential investors and investors that may be interested in relocating to our city,’ said Randy McLean, a strategy director at the City of Toronto, adding good scores in categories like education will help attract top management talent and their families.” Therefore, a favourable showing on these international rankings can have a direct economic impact on the cities. In addition tourists may use these guides when researching safe and well-supported travel destinations.

Congratulations to Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary – the three Canadian cities that made top five placement.

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