Canada’s Shifting Landscape in Global Liveability
The latest Global Liveability Index for 2025, released by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), reveals a significant shift in Canada’s standing among the world’s most livable cities. Vancouver has emerged as the sole Canadian city in the top 10, securing the 10th spot with a score of 95.8. This marks a notable rise for Vancouver, which now surpasses other major Canadian cities like Calgary and Toronto in terms of liveability.
Calgary, which held an impressive 5th position in 2024, has dropped sharply to 18th in 2025. Similarly, Toronto has fallen four places to 16th, marking one of the most significant declines among major cities globally. These changes underscore evolving dynamics in urban quality of life, with Canadian cities experiencing mixed fortunes.
Vancouver’s ascent to the top 10 is attributed to its unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. The city boasts stunning mountain vistas, lush forests, and accessible beaches, offering residents a rare combination of world-class amenities and proximity to nature. Its infrastructure, healthcare, and education systems also contribute to its high ranking.
Globally, Copenhagen retains its title as the world’s most livable city, with a score of 98.0. European and Australian cities dominate the top 10, with Vienna, Zurich, and Melbourne closely following. This year’s rankings highlight a growing trend toward smaller, well-managed cities offering exceptional quality of life.
The decline of Calgary and Toronto from the top 10 raises questions about the factors influencing liveability. While specific reasons vary, experts point to challenges such as infrastructure pressures, environmental concerns, and shifting economic conditions as potential contributors to these cities’ falling rankings.
For Canada, Vancouver’s success serves as a beacon, demonstrating how urban planning, environmental sustainability, and cultural vibrancy can enhance a city’s appeal. However, the drop in rankings for Calgary and Toronto signals a need for reflection and adaptation to maintain their competitive edge on the global stage.
Other Canadian Cities: Beyond the Top 10
While Vancouver shines as Canada’s top performer, other Canadian cities also made their mark in the 2025 Global Liveability Index. Montreal and Ottawa, though not in the top 10, maintained respectable positions, reflecting their strong infrastructure and cultural offerings.
Montreal, known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture, ranked 34th globally, highlighting its enduring appeal. Ottawa, the nation’s capital, secured the 36th spot, praised for its clean environment and high standard of living.
Vancouver’s Success Factors
Beyond natural beauty, Vancouver’s high ranking is attributed to its robust infrastructure, excellent healthcare, and top-tier education systems. The city’s commitment to sustainability and cultural diversity also plays a crucial role, making it a desirable place to live and work.
Global Trends in Liveability
European and Australian cities continue to dominate the top 10, with Copenhagen leading at 98.0. These cities excel in sustainability, innovation, and quality of life, setting benchmarks for urban development worldwide.
Implications for Canada
Vancouver’s success offers lessons for other Canadian cities. Emphasizing urban planning, environmental sustainability, and cultural vibrancy can enhance a city’s global standing. However, the decline of Calgary and Toronto signals a need for strategic adaptation to maintain competitiveness.
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Conclusion
The 2025 Global Liveability Index highlights a transformative year for Canadian cities. Vancouver’s rise to the top 10 underscores the importance of urban planning, environmental sustainability, and cultural diversity in enhancing liveability. Meanwhile, the decline of Calgary and Toronto serves as a reminder of the challenges cities face in maintaining their global competitiveness.
As global trends favor smaller, well-managed cities with exceptional quality of life, Canadian urban centers must adapt to shifting dynamics. Vancouver’s success offers a blueprint for other cities to follow, emphasizing the need for strategic investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and sustainability. The evolving landscape of liveability presents both opportunities and challenges for Canada’s cities as they strive to remain attractive and resilient in an ever-changing world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Vancouver rank higher than other Canadian cities in the 2025 Global Liveability Index?
Vancouver’s high ranking is due to its unique combination of urban amenities, natural beauty, robust infrastructure, and commitment to sustainability. Its healthcare and education systems, along with cultural vibrancy, contributed to its success.
What caused Calgary and Toronto to drop in the rankings?
The decline of Calgary and Toronto is attributed to challenges such as infrastructure pressures, environmental concerns, and shifting economic conditions. These factors impacted their overall liveability scores in the 2025 Index.
What does the Global Liveability Index mean for Canadian cities?
The Index serves as a benchmark for urban quality of life. It highlights areas where Canadian cities can improve, such as sustainability and infrastructure, to remain competitive on the global stage.
Which global trend is most impactful on liveability rankings?
European and Australian cities dominate the top 10, reflecting a trend toward smaller, well-managed cities with strong sustainability and innovation. This trend emphasizes the importance of quality of life and urban planning.
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