Many people like to move to a new country or city for many reasons, and the idea of it is great, but choosing the right place to call home isn’t always easy. There are so many conditions that need to be assessed before making the big decision.

Well fortunately, global consulting firm Mercer produces an annual report to find out which cities across the world might be the best options to consider if planning to move.

Their Quality of Living data “assess the practicalities of daily life for international assignees and their families in assignment locations worldwide”. 

The firm then provides a new ranking every year, and in 2024, four cities from one European country impressively made it to the top 10.

Last year, Austria’s capital city had the number one spot, but this year, it has been taken over by Zurich in Switzerland, which saw a number of its cities among the best for expats.

The report reads: “This year, Zurich, Switzerland, takes the top position, fueled by its outstanding public services, low crime rates and lively cultural scene, all backed by efficient infrastructure and a dedication to sustainability.

“Additionally, for 2024, Zurich has enhanced its airport connections, increasing the number of flights to and from other continents.”

As of last year, around 455,000 non-swiss people lived in Zurich, and it was the city’s highest growth rate in 13 years. Zurich is also known as being one of the happiest cities in the world. 

In this global IMD Smart City Index, the Swiss city was number one in 2024, making it its 5th year in a row.

Although Zurich was labelled as the best city, Switzerland boasted a few more that are also great to consider, according to the report. Geneva was ranked number three, Bern, the country’s capital city, reached spot nine, and Basel bagged the tenth spot.

Top 10 cities for quality of living 2024 – Full List

1. Zurich, Switzerland

2. Vienna, Austria

3. Geneva, Switzerland

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

5. Auckland, New Zealand

6. Amsterdam, Netherlands

7. (Joint place) Frankfurt, Germany and Vancouver, Canada

9. Bern, Switzerland

10. Basel, Swizterland