Copenhagen Named World’s Most Livable City as Security Shakes Europe’s Top Contenders

By Farhan Ali • June 23, 2025

In the latest Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) ranking of the world’s most livable cities, Copenhagen has risen to the top—surpassing Vienna and several other usual contenders. The Danish capital earned its crown thanks to exceptional scores in public safety, infrastructure, healthcare, and environmental planning.

Why Copenhagen Now?
The city’s livability is built on:

• Sustainable Urban Planning: Bike-friendly streets, low pollution, and energy-efficient architecture
  
• Public Trust & Safety: Low crime rates and high levels of civic trust
  
• Healthcare Access: Universal and efficient healthcare services
  
• Cultural Infrastructure: World-class design, cuisine, and civic amenities
  

What Changed for Other Cities?
This year’s ranking was influenced by a wave of unrest and instability in other parts of Western Europe:

• Vienna: Slight dip due to heightened security alerts and mass protests
  
• Paris: Struggled with anti-Semitic attacks and civil unrest linked to immigration policies
  
• London: Declined further amid rising crime and affordability issues
  
• Berlin: Held strong but fell short in infrastructure and housing scores
  

Top 5 Cities (2025 EIU Livability Index):

1. Copenhagen, Denmark
   
2. Vienna, Austria
   
3. Zurich, Switzerland
   
4. Vancouver, Canada
   
5. Munich, Germany
   

What “Livability” Means
The ranking is based on over 30 metrics across five categories: stability, healthcare, culture & environment, education, and infrastructure. Cities are evaluated for their ability to provide safe, efficient, and enriching lifestyles to residents.

A Broader Shift in Urban Desirability
Experts say the latest results reflect a growing appreciation for smaller, well-managed cities with balanced governance and citizen-focused policy. “In a time of global volatility, places like Copenhagen represent a calm, functional urban ideal,” said a WEF urban analyst.

Conclusion
Copenhagen’s rise to the top of the livability index is a testament to how thoughtful urban planning and social cohesion can elevate a city above its peers—even as more prominent capitals falter under pressure. The Danish model of livability is now a global benchmark.

Additional References:

• Bloomberg Business (@bloombergbusiness)
  
• The Economist Intelligence Unit (@theeconomist)
  
• Visit Copenhagen (@visitcopenhagen)
  
• World Economic Forum (@worldeconomicforum)
  
• The Guardian Cities Desk (@guardian)