Ranking looks at 39 factors across 10 categories in over 450 cities worldwide
Canada has secured an impressive showing in a ranking of cities based on their quality of living, with five Canadian cities placing in the top 25 for international assignees.
Vancouver led the pack at seventh overall, ranking as the highest city in North America, says Mercer’s 2024 Quality of Living Rankings. The city’s mix of temperate climate, outdoor recreation, and cosmopolitan lifestyle earned it the distinction of sharing its position with Frankfurt, Germany.
Toronto (13), Ottawa and Montreal (tied at 20), and Calgary (25) also ranked among the world’s top cities, cementing Canada’s reputation as a global destination for talent mobility.
“Canada is often considered one of the top locations from a quality living perspective due in part to its political and economic stability and social and cultural environment,” said Vince Cordova, a Mercer Partner for Mobility Advisory Services in North America.
“The Canadian cities on the rankings each have their own unique culture and lifestyle, from Vancouver’s access to nature and recreation opportunities, Toronto’s incredible diversity, Ottawa’s proximity to Parliament, Montreal’s historic downtown, and Calgary’s strong job market.”
Globally, Zurich, Switzerland, claimed the top spot, followed by Vienna, Austria, and Geneva, Switzerland. Copenhagen, Denmark, and Auckland, New Zealand, rounded out the top five.
Vancouver retained its position as a standout city in North America, while Boston (32) was the highest-ranked U.S. city, found Mercer’s ranking.
Finland has emerged as the best country for work-life balance, according to a separate report.
Mercer’s rankings evaluate living conditions in over 450 cities worldwide, analyzing 39 factors across 10 categories, including healthcare, public services, recreation, and natural environment.
“As cities face extreme weather, economic fluctuations, and other challenges, the rankings provide valuable insights for HR leaders at multinational organizations to better navigate the complexities of global mobility management and enhance the overall experience for their international workforce,” says Yvonne Traber, Partner and Mercer’s Global Mobility Leader.
Traber also highlighted the challenges of balancing quality of life with affordability, noting, “In an era of digital nomads and flexible working, Mercer’s data shows that the most desirable destinations are those that blend a high quality of life and an affordable cost of living.”
