Every year American consulting firm Mercer releases its quality of life index ranking cities around the world on numerous criteria. Many companies use this list to determine compensation for employees and international expansion opportunities. The list is indexed with New York City having a score of 100 while every other city is ranked in comparison. You may have noticed that no US or UK cities made the top 25 (which is usually dominated by German speaking cities). That doesn’t mean your city is a terrible place to live though. If we could continue the listing you would see numerous American and British cities popping up after number 25 and especially into the 50s. Keep in mind the world has thousands of very large cities so even being in the top 100 is quite an accomplishment. These are 25 cities that boast the highest quality of life in the world.

Nuremberg, Germany
Cosmopolitan yet compact, Nuremberg is lively and urban but at the same time relaxed and laid back. Situated right at its historic center is the Le Méridien Grand Hotel which is a great way to get to know the city!
Montreal, Canada
This French speaking North American city is actually the second largest French speaking city in the world after Paris. If you’re planning to check take a trip to Montreal, check out Hotel Le St-James. Housed within a converted 1800s bank building, Hotel Le St-James is a European style boutique hotel which resides in the Montréal’s historic district.
Perth, Australia
Apparently this Australian city has the highest number of millionaires per capita in the world. The Seasons Of Perth hotel is the perthect way (get it?) to get to know this city. It’s walking distance from just about all the major sights.
Brussels, Belgium
The capital of Europe is famous for its beer and chocolate. Thanks to its diversity it has also been nicknamed the “European Village”. Just 500 meters from the Grand Palace you can find the Metropole Hotel which will make your stay here quite memorable!
Stuttgart, Germany
Labeling itself the “New Heart of Europe”, this German city is spread across numerous hills, vineyards, and valleys, which is unique for a German city. Located right in its heart is the Steigenberger Graf Zeppelin, perfect for anybody planning an extended stay to the city.
Stockholm, Sweden
The cultural, political, and economic center of Sweden, it is an important global city and home to numerous top ranking universities. Right in the center just one kilometer from the Royal Palace you’ll find the Hotel Rival boasting modern and original 1930 interiors.
Luxembourg, Luxembourg
Also known as Luxembourg City, this capital is a banking and administrative center. In the Belair district you’ll find the Parc Belair hotel. It is within 1 mile of the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Grand Ducal Palace.
Hamburg, Germany
A major transportation hub and one of the most affluent cities in Europe, the second largest metropolis in Germany is a major center of industry and media. Found along the Outer Alster River is the Hotel Atlantic Kempinski, it comes fully equipped with spas and even an indoor swimming pool!
Melbourne, Australia
A leading financial center in the Asia-Pacific region, Melbourne has recently been ranked the world’s “Most Livable City” and it consistently achieves high scores in education, research, and healthcare. Shaped like an open book overlooking the Yarra River the Langham Hotel is located right in the middle of the Southgate shopping district.
Ottawa, Canada
This multicultural capital has high rates of education and low rates of unemployment. Rising above the Rideau Canal is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier, a French Renaissance-style hotel located directly beside parliament, great for anybody looking to explore the city.
Toronto, Canada
One of the world’s most diverse cities, roughly 50% of Toronto’s population is from outside Canada. In the very center of the business district is the Omni King Edward Hotel which is a perfect place to stay if you want to take in the sites.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a world city known for politics, culture, science, and media. It is home to numerous high tech firms in IT, biomedical engineering, and electronics. Located on the south bank of the River Spree in central Berlin is the Meliá Berlin hotel. It is about a 15 minute walk to the Brandenburg Gate (in the picture) and there are numerous train connections right nearby.
Bern, Switzerland
The de facto capital of Switzerland has a very medieval flair but is also very modern. As with most Swiss cities it consistently ranks high on livability rankings. When visiting the city consider staying at the Hotel Bellevue Palace. It’s very centrally located and comes with a spa and massage rooms!
Wellington, New Zealand
Tucked between the ocean’s edge and rolling hills, the southern most capital city in the world has a compact layout and quirky charm. Located right in its heart you’ll find the Bolten Hotel. It’s only a 10 minute walk from most of the popular sights.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Originating as a small fishing village in the 1100s it has now become one of the most important port cities in Europe and the world. When it comes to spending the night here De L’Europe Amsterdam comes highly recommended with a prime location on the Canal Loop.
Sydney, Australia
Surrounding one of the world’s largest natural harbors, Sydney is sprawled between the ocean and the Blue Mountains to the west. Possibly its most famous structure is the Sydney Opera House. Found right in the middle of Dawes Point at the edge of the harbor is Pier One Sydney Harbour hotel and if you’re really looking to experience Sydney this is the best place to do it!
Copenhagen, Denmark
Founded in the 10th century as a Viking fishing village, the capital of Denmark has since then grown into one of the most important urban and cultural centers in Europe. Housed in a converted warehouse on the waterfront you’ll find the Copenhagen Admiral Hotel and it’s definitely worth stopping by if you’re in town. The Queen’s Palace is only a short walk away.
Geneva, Switzerland
A global city, Geneva is home to numerous international organizations and has sometimes been called the world’s most compact metropolis. For those of you interested in visiting this amazing city consider the Hotel Royal right next to the UN offices. The famed Paquis baths of Lake Geneva are only a 10 minute walk away!
Frankfurt, Germany
The financial headquarters of the Europe Union, Frankfurt’s central location on the continent has made it a major hub of transport, business, and trade. Speaking of business, Fleming’s Conference Hotel Frankfurt is known for being business friendly!
Dusseldorf, Germany
Renowned for its fashion and trade fairs, Dusseldorf has even been labeled Germany’s fashion capital. If you’re looking to spend a night here consider the Intercontinental Dusseldorf. It is located right in the Stadtmitte and is within walking distance of just about everything.
Vancouver, Canada
Canada’s busiest port, Vancouver is extremely diverse. In fact, over half of the residents speak a language other than English at home. It has also consistently ranked at the top of quality of life indexes. Finding a spot to stay in the heart of the city can be difficult but the Georgian Court Hotel is one of the best, and the Italian food is unrivaled!
Munich, Germany
As the third largest city in Germany, Munich is home to numerous museums, universities, and exhibitions. It has also recently been labeled as one of the most prosperous and fastest growing cities in Germany. With a rooftop terrace, the Leonardo Royal Hotel Munich is hard to match when it comes to finding local accommodation.
Auckland, New Zealand
The largest city in New Zealand, Auckland is within easy reach of numerous beaches, hiking trails, and even volcanoes! But most people will probably agree that the best part is the climate. Boasting a full service spa and within easy reach of the beach, Delamore Lodge is the best way to experience this island paradise!
Zürich, Switzerland
Home to most of Switzerland’s research and development centers, Zurich is also the largest city in the country. It consistently ranks at the top of global livability indexes. The Central Plaza Hotel on the river Limmat is a great place to explore the city.
Vienna, Austria
The second largest German speaking city in the world after Berlin, Vienna has been called the City of Music thanks to its longstanding reputation as a cultural hub. It is also one of the primary destinations for international congresses and conventions. To stay close to all the action check out Holiday Inn Vienna City. It’s right in the city center and it has free wi-fi, what more could you want?