Canada’s Cities Excel in 2025 Global Liveability Index
The 2025 Global Liveability Index, released by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), has once again highlighted Canada’s cities as among the world’s most desirable places to live. Four Canadian cities—Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary—were evaluated, with three securing spots in the global top 20. This year, Vancouver emerged as Canada’s top performer, ranking 10th worldwide and earning the title of North America’s most liveable city.
The Index assesses 173 cities across five key categories: healthcare, education, stability, infrastructure, and culture and environment. Each city is scored out of 100 based on its performance in these areas. While Calgary dropped from 5th to 18th globally due to healthcare challenges, Toronto and Montreal maintained their strong positions, reinforcing Canada’s reputation for offering exceptional quality of life.
Vancouver’s success can be attributed to its high scores in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and stability. The city’s mild climate, natural beauty, and inclusive society also make it a magnet for immigrants and families seeking a stable and fulfilling life. Meanwhile, Calgary’s decline underscores broader pressures on urban healthcare systems, though it remains one of Canada’s top cities.
This year’s Index saw Western European and Australian cities dominate the top spots, with Copenhagen, Denmark, claiming first place. However, Vancouver stands out as the only North American city in the global top 10, further cementing Canada’s reputation as a leader in liveability.
For immigrants and residents alike, these rankings reaffirm Canada’s commitment to safety, excellent public services, and a vibrant quality of life. As global competition for talent intensifies, Canada’s cities continue to shine as beacons of opportunity and prosperity.
Read more about Canada’s performance in the 2025 Global Liveability Index.
Vancouver’s Enduring Appeal and Global Competition
Vancouver’s consistent top-10 presence in the Global Liveability Index is a testament to its well-rounded offerings. The city excels in providing a balanced environment, combining proximity to nature with urban amenities. Its green spaces, mild climate, and access to both outdoor activities and modern infrastructure make it a unique destination. Additionally, Vancouver’s robust public education system and comprehensive public health services further enhance its appeal. The city’s reputation for inclusion and multiculturalism creates a welcoming environment for immigrants and families, making it a consistent favorite for those seeking a stable and fulfilling life.
This year’s Index saw fierce competition at the top, with Western European and Australian cities dominating the rankings. Copenhagen, Denmark, claimed the top spot with a near-perfect score of 98, excelling in stability, education, and infrastructure. Vienna, Austria, and Zurich, Switzerland, followed closely, with Melbourne, Geneva, Sydney, Osaka, Auckland, and Adelaide also securing high positions. These cities’ strong performance underscores the importance of investments in public services, environmental sustainability, and social stability.
The Index’s methodology provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating liveability. It assesses stability by considering crime rates and conflict risks, healthcare by evaluating quality and availability, culture and environment by examining climate and social stability, education by assessing access and quality, and infrastructure by reviewing roads, transport, and utilities. Each category is weighted equally, and cities receive a composite score out of 100. This approach ensures a holistic view of what makes a city desirable for residents and newcomers alike.
For Canada, the 2025 rankings reinforce its reputation as a global leader in quality of life. While Calgary’s drop highlights the challenges of maintaining healthcare standards in urban centers, Toronto and Montreal’s strong showings demonstrate the country’s broader appeal. These cities’ vibrant cultural scenes, safe urban environments, and excellent public services continue to attract talent and families from around the world.
As global competition for talent intensifies, Canada’s cities remain beacons of opportunity and prosperity. Their commitment to safety, inclusivity, and high-quality public services ensures they will continue to rank among the world’s most liveable destinations.
Read more about Canada’s performance in the 2025 Global Liveability Index.
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Conclusion
The 2025 Global Liveability Index underscores Canada’s continued dominance as a global leader in quality of life. With Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal securing top-20 positions, Canada reinforces its reputation for exceptional public services, safety, and inclusivity. While Calgary’s drop highlights challenges in healthcare, the overall performance of Canadian cities demonstrates their enduring appeal to immigrants, families, and talent worldwide. As global competition intensifies, Canada’s commitment to stability, education, and environmental sustainability ensures its cities remain among the world’s most desirable places to live.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Canadian cities ranked highly in the 2025 Global Liveability Index?
Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary were the Canadian cities evaluated in the 2025 Index. Vancouver ranked 10th, Toronto and Montreal maintained strong positions in the top 20, while Calgary dropped to 18th.
Why did Calgary’s ranking drop in 2025?
Calgary’s drop was primarily due to challenges in its healthcare system, which impacted its overall score in the Index.
What factors contributed to Vancouver’s success in the Index?
Vancouver excelled due to its high scores in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and stability, combined with its mild climate, natural beauty, and inclusive society.
Which categories are assessed in the Global Liveability Index?
The Index evaluates five key categories: healthcare, education, stability, infrastructure, and culture and environment. Each city is scored out of 100 based on its performance in these areas.
What does Canada’s strong performance in the Index mean for immigrants?
Canada’s high rankings reinforce its reputation as a leader in quality of life, safety, and public services, making it an attractive destination for immigrants seeking stability and opportunity.
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