Bern maintains top spot for expat liveability in Europe
Business environment
22 January 2024
This marks the third consecutive year Bern has held this prestigious position, attributed to its outstanding facilities, minimal air pollution, and low crime rates.
Bern has once again been recognized as the most liveable city for European expatriates in the latest annual Location Ratings Report by ECA International.
Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, has once again been recognized as the premier destination for European expatriates, holding its position as the most liveable city for the third year in a row. This prestigious ranking is based on the latest annual Location Ratings Report from ECA International, which evaluates global cities based on various liveability factors crucial for expatriate life.
ECA’s Location Ratings objectively evaluate cities globally, assessing over 500 locations. Factors considered include health services, housing and utilities, isolation, social networks, leisure facilities, infrastructure, climate, personal safety, socio-political tensions, and air quality.
In the report, Neil Ashman, Senior Location Ratings Analyst at ECA International, has highlighted the city’s appeal for expatriates and their families, stating: “With top facilities, minimal air pollution, and low crime rates, Bern is a very attractive city for expatriates and their families. Swiss, Dutch, and Scandinavian cities fill out the top 10 most liveable cities.”
The report also noted shifts in rankings for other cities. Copenhagen, previously tied for the number one spot, fell to fifth place due to housing availability issues. Edinburgh remains the most liveable UK city, ranking 17th globally, while Aberdeen is second in the UK and 24th overall. In contrast, London holds steady, ranking 37th.
An exemplary city for international mobility and expatriate living
In Asia, despite socio-political tensions, Hong Kong remains in the top ten most liveable cities, although it has seen a drop in ranking over the last five years. Meanwhile, cities like Moscow and Kyiv have plummeted in the rankings following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in early 2022.
The report also highlights the decline in liveability rankings for several African cities due to political and social unrest. South African cities, while still ranking highest on the continent, have seen a drop in their positions.
This comprehensive report underlines Bern’s consistent ability to offer a high quality of life, setting it apart as a top destination for expatriates in Europe. Its stable environment, coupled with high-quality living standards, makes Bern an exemplary city for international mobility and expatriate living.
