Maple News reports that Canada continues to stand strong on the global stage for quality of life, as two of its major cities—Vancouver and Calgary—have secured spots in the top 10 of the Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) 2024 Global Livability Index.
The EIU’s annual report evaluates cities worldwide across five key categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. These factors are used to determine a city’s overall livability, particularly relevant for immigrants, expats, and global talent looking for optimal places to live and work.
In the 2024 rankings, Calgary climbed two places to earn fifth position globally, tying with Geneva. Calgary’s improved score reflects enhancements in infrastructure and education, areas that have seen significant investment in recent years.
Vancouver, which had held the fifth spot in 2023, now ranks seventh. Despite this slight dip, the west coast city remains a consistent fixture in the top 10, applauded for its natural environment, multicultural vibrancy, and healthcare access.
Toronto, however, slipped out of the global top 10 this year, landing in 12th place. The city had been ranked ninth in 2023. While still performing well across most metrics, rising housing costs and congestion may have contributed to the downgrade.
At the top of the list for the third consecutive year are Vienna and Copenhagen, ranked first and second respectively. These cities are praised for their exceptional urban planning, healthcare systems, and overall stability.
Interestingly, all cities featured in the 2024 top 10 were also present in last year’s ranking, demonstrating a stable pattern among the world’s most livable urban centers. The consistency speaks to their sustained efforts in maintaining high living standards amid global challenges.
For newcomers and prospective immigrants, these rankings offer meaningful insight into which Canadian cities provide the best overall quality of life. With Calgary and Vancouver maintaining strong positions, Canada continues to be a favorable destination for skilled professionals and families alike.
Maple News will continue to monitor how Canadian cities adapt and compete in global rankings, as urban liveability becomes increasingly important in attracting talent and investment.