The European Commission conducted a large-scale study in 2023 to determine the level of life satisfaction in cities across Europe. Over 71,000 respondents from 83 cities in the EU, the United Kingdom, and Turkey participated in the study. Based on their responses, a ranking of cities was created where residents feel the happiest and safest.
This is reported by Finway
The Ranking Considers Various Aspects of Daily Life
The study covered criteria such as service accessibility, safety levels, quality of public spaces, and trust within local communities. Evaluating these indicators not only helps to understand the overall sense of happiness but also assesses the real living conditions in the cities. This information will be useful for those considering relocating or temporarily living abroad.
Top 5 European Cities with the Highest Resident Happiness
- Gdańsk (Poland)
In this Polish city, 95% of residents are satisfied with their lives. Gdańsk is known for its history and significant port on the Baltic Sea. The city is considered immigrant-friendly due to its developed infrastructure, stable job market, and high safety levels, making it attractive for those contemplating a move to Poland. - Leipzig (Germany)
The life satisfaction level in Leipzig is also around 95%. The city attracts young professionals and families with children, combining an active urban rhythm with cozy residential areas. Residents particularly highlight the air quality: 83% of respondents are completely satisfied with it, which is an important factor for long-term living. - Copenhagen (Denmark)
In the capital of Denmark, 96% of respondents are happy to live here. Copenhagen is renowned for its high safety levels, developed cycling infrastructure, environmental initiatives, and stable economy. The main challenge for residents is housing accessibility, as finding accommodation at a reasonable price is quite difficult. - Groningen (Netherlands)
The city of Groningen shows one of the highest satisfaction rates – over 96% of residents. It is known for its safety, openness to immigrants and the LGBTQ+ community, as well as a large number of public and green spaces. The high level of trust is also impressive: 86% of respondents believe that most people in the city can be trusted and feel safe even at night.
“Such a level of trust is rare even for developed cities in Europe.”
- Zurich (Switzerland)
The absolute leader of the ranking is Zurich, where 97% of residents are satisfied with their lives. The city demonstrates the highest results across all major criteria: transportation quality, healthcare levels, clean air, stable job market, and financial security for the population. Zurich has also been named the best city for the LGBTQ+ community and elderly people. The only significant downside is housing accessibility: only 11% of respondents believe that finding a good option at a reasonable price is possible.