The vaunted Economist Intelligence Unit has rendered its annual list of the world’s most livable city, and for the sixth year in a row, one of Australia’s largest cities, Melbourne, has brought home the coveted title of world’s best.
The annual study takes into account “stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education and infrastructure,” and renders a score out of 100. This year, Melbourne earned a score of 97.5.
Of course, there’s a lot of competition for first place, more so than ever before. Vienna, the capital of Austria, earned an impressive 97.4, and Vancouver, Canada tallied a 97.3 (apparently, weather isn’t taken into account). Rounding out the top ten are (in order) Toronto, Calgary, Alberta and Adelaide, Australia (both tied for fifth), Perth, Australia, Auckland, New Zealand, Helsinki, Finland, and Hamburg, Germany.
Melbourne has long been lauded for its peaceful atmosphere and its economic stability. Of course, it probably doesn’t hurt that the picturesque city backs up to some of the world’s most gorgeous (and expansive) beaches. The people of Melbourne have a reputation for friendliness, too, which means that even if you don’t live there, it might just be the perfect place to visit on your next vacation.
Go on, see what all the fuss is about.
