A newly released global survey has placed Toronto among the top 15 cities with the best quality of life for expats.
Toronto ranked 13th of 241 international cities, up four places from last year when the city placed 17th.
The survey, completed by the consulting firm Mercer, considers 39 various factors in the ranking, including housing, recreation, socio-cultural environment, traffic, air quality and access to education.
The report said Toronto has "strong commitment to inclusivity and diversity,” which boosted its ranking — as well as being a "global economic hub.”
Vancouver is the only North American city to be included among the top 10 — and is the only Canadian city to top Toronto. Vancouver tied for 7th place with Frankfurt, Germany.
Montreal and Ottawa tied for the 20th spot, alongside the Australian cities Melbourne and Perth, and Oslo in Norway. Calgary placed 25th.
Zurich, Switzerland took the top spot this year for its “outstanding public services, low crime rates and a lively cultural scene.” The report added Zurich also has “efficient infrastructure and a dedication to sustainability.”
“In an era of digital nomads and flexible working, countries and cities are consistently working to attract international businesses, talent and remote workers,” Mercer said of the importance of its survey. “The most successful destinations today are those that blend flexible governance around mobile talent with a high quality of life and an affordable cost of living.”
The creators of the 2024 Quality of Living City Ranking said the list serves as a tool for individuals and organizations dealing with global workplace relocation, investment and talent management.
The top 10 cities with the best quality of life, according to the survey, are as follows:
- Zurich, Switzerland
- Vienna, Austria
- Geneva, Switzerland
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Auckland, New Zealand
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Frankfurt, Germany and Vancouver, Canada
- Bern, Switzerland
- Basel, Switzerland
