Mercer study 2024 confirms top quality of life in Vienna

The Austrian capital has been ranked the city with the world’s second highest quality of living in 2024 - a clear sign of continued international recognition for Vienna as a great place to live.

The international consulting agency Mercer has accorded Vienna the second highest score in its 2024 Quality of Living City Ranking. For the first time since 2009, the long-time leader of the ranking was surpassed by the Swiss city of Zurich this year. Places three to five went to Geneva (Switzerland), Copenhagen (Denmark) and Auckland (New Zealand).

Criteria and data

The annual Mercer study compares the current quality of living in 241 cities worldwide. The analysis is based on a set of generally recognised criteria, including health standards, political stability, the economic situation, education system, housing market, and environmental quality.

The ranking mainly relies on data provided by independent institutions and public authorities. These are supplemented by surveys among expatriates living and working in Vienna, usually for a limited time.

Quality of living city ranking 2024 - Mercer