In 2025, the pursuit of a high quality of life drives global relocation trends, with cities like Grenoble (France), Canberra (Australia), Bern (Switzerland), Bergen (Norway), Basel (Switzerland), Luxembourg (Luxembourg), Reykjavik (Iceland), Zurich (Switzerland), Gent (Belgium), and Nantes (France) leading as the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025. These cities, ranked by factors like safety, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and environment, offer residents a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle. Drawing from sources like Numbeo’s Quality of Life Index and global insights, this article explores why these cities shine in 2025, their unique strengths, and their contributions to global livability.
1. Grenoble, France: Alpine Innovation in 2025
Grenoble, France, tops the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025, blending Alpine beauty with a vibrant tech hub. With a Numbeo score of around 230, Grenoble excels in safety, healthcare, and low pollution in 2025. Its innovation ecosystem, hosting 63,000 students and startups, plus affordable living (rent ~€700/month), makes it a standout in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025.
2. Canberra, Australia: Planned Perfection in 2025
Canberra, Australia, ranks second in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025, known for its orderly design and green spaces. In 2025, its high healthcare (100/100 EIU score) and education standards, plus low crime rates, elevate its appeal. With 435,000 residents enjoying Lake Burley Griffin’s serenity, Canberra shines in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025.
3. Bern, Switzerland: Tranquil Capital in 2025
Bern, Switzerland, third in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025, scores 219.9 on Numbeo for its serene lifestyle. In 2025, its medieval charm, clean Aare River, and top-tier healthcare (100/100 EIU) draw families. Despite high costs (€1,200 rent), Bern’s safety secures its place in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025.
4. Bergen, Norway: Nordic Serenity in 2025
Bergen, Norway, ranks fourth in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025, surrounded by fjords and cultural vibrancy. In 2025, its low pollution, excellent healthcare, and education system, plus a walkable UNESCO-listed center, attract residents. With 280,000 people, Bergen’s balance earns its spot in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025.
5. Basel, Switzerland: Cultural Hub in 2025
Basel, Switzerland, fifth in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025, scores 216.2 on Numbeo for its cultural richness. In 2025, its 40+ museums, pharma hub, and Rhine River setting offer a high living standard. Affordable transport and safety solidify Basel’s role in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025.
6. Luxembourg, Luxembourg: Financial Haven in 2025
Luxembourg City, sixth in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025, scores 213.6 on Numbeo for its wealth and safety. In 2025, its banking sector, multilingual culture, and low crime rate draw expats, despite high rents (€1,500/month). Its compact charm secures its place in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025.
7. Reykjavik, Iceland: Sustainable Serenity in 2025
Reykjavik, Iceland, seventh in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025, offers geothermal-powered living and safety. In 2025, its 140,000 residents enjoy clean air, universal healthcare, and cultural festivals. High costs are offset by equality, placing Reykjavik in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025.
8. Zurich, Switzerland: Financial and Livable in 2025
Zurich, eighth in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025, scores 97.1 on EIU’s Liveability Index for its efficiency. In 2025, its banking hub, Lake Zurich views, and top healthcare (100/100 EIU) shine, despite high costs. Zurich’s urban charm cements its role in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025.
9. Gent, Belgium: Historic Harmony in 2025
Gent, Belgium, ninth in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025, blends medieval charm with modern livability. In 2025, its bike-friendly streets, affordable rent (€800/month), and cultural vibrancy attract young professionals. Gent’s balance secures its spot in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025.
10. Nantes, France: Creative Capital in 2025
Nantes, France, rounds out the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025, known for its artistic flair and affordability. In 2025, its green initiatives, cultural festivals, and low crime rate draw families. With rent at €650/month, Nantes shines in the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025.
Why These Are the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025
The 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025 excel in safety, healthcare, and affordability, per Numbeo’s nine indicators, including purchasing power and pollution. Europe dominates with six cities, led by Grenoble’s innovation and Bern’s tranquility. Canberra and Reykjavik offer nature, while Zurich and Luxembourg provide wealth. These cities’ balanced ecosystems make them the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025.
Challenges and Opportunities in 2025
In 2025, the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life face high living costs, with Zurich’s rent averaging €2,000/month. Climate change threatens Reykjavik’s sustainability, but innovations like Grenoble’s tech hubs and Nantes’ green policies offer solutions. Digital nomad programs in Gent and Canberra boost economies, shaping the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025.
Conclusion
The 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025—Grenoble, Canberra, Bern, Bergen, Basel, Luxembourg, Reykjavik, Zurich, Gent, and Nantes—offer safety, culture, and sustainability. From France’s creative hubs to Switzerland’s serene capitals, these cities redefine livability. Their resilience ensures they remain the 10 Best Cities in the World for Quality of Life in 2025.
