Copenhagen has been ranked as the most livable city in the world for 2026, according to the annual report from the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) released on Tuesday. This marks the second consecutive year the Danish capital has topped the list, surpassing Vienna, which had held the top position for three years prior. The EIU evaluated 173 cities based on various criteria including stability, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and culture.
Key Details
Copenhagen received perfect scores in stability, infrastructure, and education, contributing to its overall ranking. The city’s success is attributed to a combination of high-quality public services and a strong cultural and environmental framework, according to an EIU spokesperson. Melbourne and Sydney from Australia followed closely, ranking third and fourth respectively, while Zurich and Geneva from Switzerland rounded out the top six.
In the United States, New York improved its position, moving up three places to 66th, primarily due to enhanced stability scores linked to decreased crime rates. Honolulu remains the highest-ranked U.S. city at 25th, despite a two-place drop.
Background
The report reflects ongoing global trends in urban living, with cities facing various challenges, including those stemming from geopolitical tensions and environmental issues. The EIU's rankings provide insights into the livability of urban areas amid changing global dynamics.
Related coverage: Copenhagen Named Most Liveable City for 2026 by EIU Report.
The ranking of cities can influence perceptions of investment opportunities in urban areas, particularly in sectors related to real estate and urban development. Investors may focus on cities with high livability scores for potential growth in property values and quality of life enhancements. Watch for reactions from urban planners and investors following the release of the EIU report.