New global ranking assesses factors such as cost of living and cultural scene
When researchers at Mercer work out which cities are among the best in the world for working expats they consider multiple factors – and one Canadian city is among the elite top ten.
The 2024 Quality of Living city ranking includes scores for quality of life, cost of living, cultural scene, level of crime, and the economic environment to assist multinational firms in determining where their people will likely have the best experiences and health and retirement outcomes.
Topping the chart this year is Zurich. The city, known as a global financial capital and banking hub, is one of four in Switzerland to make the top 10 along with Basel, Bern, and Geneva (which took third place behind Vienna). Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt add to the European domination of the rankings, while Auckland is one of two cities from other regions.
“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,” said Yvonne Traber, partner and Mercer’s Global Mobility Leader. “This presents a challenge for organizations and international assignees as they balance decisions related to relocation, investment and talent management.”
The only other city to make the top 10 from outside Europe is Vancouver, which is ranked equal seventh with Frankfurt to become the leading North American city. It’s included for providing its residents a unique blend of outdoor recreation and cosmopolitan living among other factors.
But the good news for Canadian cities doesn’t end in BC, as Toronto (13), Ottawa and Montreal (=20th), and Calgary (25) all rank well ahead of the best performing city in the United States, Boston, in 32nd place.
“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,” concluded Traber.
