We all know that our world is huge and, considering that there are 196 countries on our planet, this is an indisputable fact. However, with travel becoming easier, international cooperation becoming more efficient, and the ability to apply for visas online, the travel possibilities are endless. When most of us want to plan a vacation or even find a new place where we want to work, live and raise our family, we don't have much difficulty determining which country will suit us best.
Whatever climate or culture you're looking for, there's definitely at least one place in the world that suits your needs. However, subjective factors aside, which countries are actually the “best”? Is it possible to define such an ideal? Yes, in fact, such a list exists. It consists of the following...
Analysts at goodcountry.org have come up with the “Good Country Index,” which ranks countries whose populations are actually “good.” “Good” is defined by the HCI on a variety of representative factors, including a country's contribution to protecting the planet and the climate, the level of equality and prosperity of the population, the country's contribution to international peacekeeping missions, and the advancement of science and technology. This ranking, although controversial, is based on facts and statistics and provides us with an overview of each country's priorities and the benefits that countries bring to the international community.
Whether you're a regular tourist, a national, or a potential immigrant, there are certain strengths shared by the world's 10 best countries, as ranked by the Good Country Index.
10. Belgium
Belgium has impressive statistics that earn it a place in the list of the top 10 countries in the world. Although it ranks at the top of the rankings in the Prosperity and Equality and Health and Well-Being categories, it is its top spot in Culture that secures its place on the list. Belgium ranked highly in the categories of Export of Creative Goods, Export of Creative Services, Freedom of Movement and Freedom of the Press. These positive places have given the small European country recognition as one of the best countries in the world on a global scale and an example for other countries lower on the list.
9. Denmark
The beautiful country of Denmark is absolutely different from other countries. It is among the best countries in Culture, World Order and Health and Well-being. Denmark ranks highly in Pharmaceutical Exports, Food Aid, World Health Organization Voluntary Donations, and Humanitarian Aid Donations. It is globally known for its generosity in humanitarian aid, so the fact that Denmark made the list is likely not surprising. Although it is one of the smallest countries on the top ten list, Denmark still has a big influence on the world.
8. Norway
Norway, with its picturesque landscapes and charming cities, graces this list, ranking as the 8th best country in the world. Despite only ranking in the top ten for World Order and Planet and Climate, Norway certainly has a strong global impact. Norway has a positive rating in Charity, Refugees and UN Treaties. All these positive signs indicate that world cohesion is important to Norway and that they do not keep their wealth just for themselves.
7. UK
The UK is home to everyone's favorite royals, led by Queen Elizabeth II. It is also the country ranked 7th according to the HCI. The UK ranks in the top ten for World Order, Prosperity and Equality, and Health and Wellbeing. However, she ranks first in Science and Technology. The UK also ranks highly in Journal Exports, International Publications and Nobel Prizes. The UK is also well positioned in the area of International Students. It is not surprising that this powerful association of countries is among the ten best states in the world.
6. Sweden
Sweden is famous for its large retail chain IKEA, as well as for its chocolate and Absolut vodka. However, Sweden also has the distinction of holding the record (of any country on this list) for placing in the top ten in the largest number of categories included in the Good Country Index. It ranks tenth or higher in Science and Technology, World Order, Planet and Climate, Prosperity and Equality, and Health and Well-Being. Ranked third behind Iceland and Canada in the Planet and Climate category, Sweden has a reputation for its balanced approach to Biodiversity Reserves, Carbon Dioxide Emissions and other greenhouse gases.
5. New Zealand
New Zealand made the top ten in just two categories, namely Planet and Climate and Science and Technology. This unique country, whose people are lovingly called Kiwis, ranks high on the list of Biodiversity Reserves as well as Carbon Dioxide Emissions. Many people live in eco-friendly homes to help the environment in this part of the southern hemisphere. New Zealanders use the Environment Choice label when purchasing products to ensure minimal harm to their environment.
4. Netherlands
The Netherlands is known not only for its wooden clogs and relaxed attitude towards psychotropic drugs and certain behavior. In fact, it ranks in the top ten for Culture, World Order, Prosperity and Equality, and Health and Well-Being, so it's safe to say the country is on the right track in terms of making a positive global impact. The Netherlands ranks highly for freedom of movement (this mainly concerns visa restrictions) as well as Freedom of the Press. Apparently, this country has nothing to hide, and, accordingly, the world community can have confidence in this small state.
3. Switzerland
The home of famous banks and chocolate is in third place on this list. It ranks in the top ten for Science and Technology, World Order, Prosperity and Equality, and Health and Well-Being. Although it ranks 71st in the International Peace and Security rankings, as a resolutely neutral country, it scores missing points in other categories. It ranks highly in Open Trade, as well as Foreign Direct Investment, and Volume of Trade based on mutual benefit in the Prosperity and Equality category, making it a near-perfect country.
2. Finland
This country is located in the northern part of Europe. Despite the fact that it is small, its influence is quite noticeable on a local and global scale. Finland ranks first in two sub-categories - Science & Technology and Prosperity - and the enterprising country appears to be trying to make the world a more cohesive and welcoming environment. In terms of science and education, Finland has a large number of Nobel Prizes and produces large volumes of high-quality international publications, as well as Export Journals.
1. Ireland
The coveted first place among the best countries is occupied, although many do not agree with this, Ireland. The country not only ranked first overall, but also ranked first in the Prosperity and Equality category. The country, which is in the process of returning to normal after a severe crisis, supports Ethical Trade and is also well represented in UN Volunteers around the world. It also ranks top in the categories Culture, World Order, and Health and Wellness. However, no country is perfect, and even this top-ranked country is known in a negative light for its approach to issues such as gender equality. The fact that Ireland is essentially a Catholic country means that it lags behind many other European countries in terms of promoting equality.
For many, an ideal country is a state without wars and protests, with a stable economy that allows you to easily secure your life and leisure, without crime and fear for your safety.
Do you know which countries in the world are best suited for such a calm, peaceful, stable life, with prospects for the future? Since 2007, the Institute for Economics and Peace has been researching all peoples and regions of the planet based on external and internal indicators. We may think that the world is becoming increasingly violent in times of crisis, but according to the Global Peace Index, there are 20 of the most peaceful countries in which to live.
1. Denmark
Denmark tops the list of the most peaceful countries on earth as it is truly a safe place to live. Even when Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, was under Nazi occupation during World War II, there was no military activity in the city at all. This is because people living in Denmark prefer to focus on economic issues rather than getting involved in various armed conflicts.
Danish people are very friendly, open and helpful. All tourists who have visited Denmark at least once in their lives, without exception, claim that they would like to live in this country.
2. Norway
Many did not expect that Norway could appear on the list of ideal countries to live in. Perhaps this is because Anders Behring Breivik, a mass murderer, has hurt the country's global reputation. Of course, this was an isolated incident of this magnitude, and according to the Global Peace Index, Norway is one of the most peaceful, stable, friendly and safe countries to live in.
It is the state with the highest level of human development in the world. In addition, the Oslo government always places economic stability, social development and peace at the top of the country's list of priorities.
3. Singapore
As an active member of the international community and, overall, a small separate nation, Singapore may never have happened! Since gaining independence in 1965 as a sovereign Republic, Singapore has always focused on being a great neighbor through establishing social, peaceful, economic, political relations with all countries.
Singapore cooperates with the United Nations, and also participates in various global, unilateral and multilateral campaigns to promote international cooperation, and is also a member of the WTO (World Trade Organization).
Singapore is on the list of the most peaceful countries and is also one of the richest countries in the world. Here the level of murders and violent crime is tens of times lower than in other countries.
4. Slovenia
The beautiful European country of Slovenia is also in the “ideal to live” rating. It showed the lowest indicators among the countries of the continent in terms of the number of organized internal conflicts, protests, and the number of civil and external wars. In addition, its wonderful cities, like Maribor and Ljubljana, are teeming with unique culture and flavor, making Slovenia a fantastic destination for tourists.
5. Sweden
One of the most beautiful Scandinavian countries, Sweden is located in the far north of Europe. Although Sweden is one of the largest arms exporters in Europe, the country has a low robbery rate (only 9,000 per year) compared to the US (about 350,000 per year)! Sweden has not fought or participated in battles for more than two centuries.
Most of the country's budget is aimed at economic and social development, which makes the level of citizens' dissatisfaction with their lives zero.
According to the Global Peace Index, Sweden is one of the most peaceful and stable (politically and economically) countries in the world, despite being the world's third largest arms exporter.
6. Iceland
Iceland has been recognized as one of the most peaceful countries in the world, as it has managed to stay away from all the major conflicts in the world. Thanks to this, the government has been able to invest money in the economy and development of the country for centuries.
Iceland rarely makes headlines. Despite the collapse of the Icelandic banks several years ago, the country has remained not only an amazing place with impressive natural beauty, but also a fairly stable state. Tourists from all over the world come to Iceland to see the huge glaciers and raging volcanoes, as well as the many unique natural and cultural attractions in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland.
7. Belgium
According to the Global Peace Index, Belgium is one of the best and most peaceful places to live in both Europe and the rest of the world. Located in the heart of the continent, this small country occupies a special political place. Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is home to the European Union and NATO.
Belgium boasts medieval cities, beautiful town halls, majestic castles and captivating natural beauty.
The murder and incarceration rates in Belgium are very low, even taking into account the government crisis during the period 2008-2011.
8. Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is a relatively new country that gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1989 thanks to the Velvet Revolution and subsequent separation from Slovakia.
After the collapse of Czechoslovakia, the Czech Republic focused on creating a strong capitalist economy and a stable climate for investment.
In 2009, the Human Development Index (HDI) declared the Czech Republic to have a “very high level of human development”. Known primarily for its magnificent capital, Prague, and breathtaking natural beauty, the Czech Republic attracts tourists from all over. Moreover, students from all over the world flock to this country, who have a real opportunity to receive a European education for free and stay to live in this amazing country.
9. Switzerland
Switzerland has consistently maintained a well-functioning government and an open political culture for decades. An illustration of the quality of a country's government activities is the lowest score for political instability. In addition, Switzerland is among the most peaceful countries that have low violent crime rates. Although Switzerland is known for its neutrality in regional, international and global political matters, it maintains close diplomatic relations with various countries around the world.
10. Japan
One of the most culturally fascinating countries, Japan has the third largest economy in the world. Since World War II, it has been a very calm state, with virtually no internal conflicts and a very low crime rate. The country has its own internal security regulation force to maintain peace.
Japan is a peaceful and also stunningly beautiful country that you don't necessarily want to live in, but it's worth visiting one day.
11. Ireland
With its rich historical sites, amazing green pastures and friendly people, it's no wonder that Ireland is one of the most peaceful countries on Earth.
Ireland is a fabulous country with many reasons to visit. Rich literary history, mountain castles, picturesque coastlines and legendary hospitality make Ireland a wonderful place to visit at any time of the year, as well as a wonderful place to live, with a calm, peaceful atmosphere.
12. Finland
The Finns, as a people, have never been famous for their fighting character, despite the fact that they have compulsory civil and military service for young people. It is also worth noting the Finnish education system, which covers absolutely all areas of activity. It’s not for nothing that she ranks fifth among the best in the world.
13. New Zealand
Every year since 2007, the Institute of Economics and Peace has ranked New Zealand among the most peaceful countries. And there are reasons for this: a very small percentage of the population in prisons, limited military capabilities, close relations with Australia and incredible hospitality. New Zealand is a wonderful country to live. It is a place of varied natural scenery and unusual inhabitants.
Visitors from all over the world come to New Zealand to experience mountain scenery, breathtaking alpine glaciers, stunning beaches, fantastic geothermal springs and bubbling volcanoes, and walk through the haunts of famous hobbits and elves from the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
The country is also famous for its fine wines, with a huge number of grape varieties planted throughout New Zealand. So if you are a big fan of wine or hobbits, this is the place for you.
14. Canada
Having one of the highest standards of living in the world, Canada is also a very calm and stable country. It is home to only 33 million people, but is nonetheless the second largest country in the world.
Canada is a wonderful country to live in, with clean and safe cities, picturesque landscapes and friendly people.
Canada, despite having a relatively high military potential, is not currently involved in any armed conflicts.
15. Austria
Austria is a small Central European country that ranks among the “ideal countries” due to its position on international politics. Since the First World War, the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Second World War, Austria has embarked on a path of peaceful and serene life.
Many people argue that Austria is the best country to live. After all, with its amazing history, world-famous resorts in the Alps, and a stable economy that allows citizens to work and achieve success, it is not surprising to see Austria on this list.
16. Butane
Bhutan is also one of the 20 most beautiful and safe countries to live in, as measured by the 2013 Global Peace Index. This is because Bhutan does not take part in international conflicts, and no internal unrest has been noticed here over the past 6 years. The country has a huge number of police officers per 100,000 population and a low level of organized crime. The government allocates almost no money for military needs and the production of heavy weapons. The people here are very friendly, peaceful, and besides this, Bhutan boasts a large number of interesting sights.
17. Australia
Australia is a beautiful and peaceful country that offers cultural diversity, wonderful beaches, lots of breathtaking scenery, amazing fauna and friendly people with a great sense of humor. Although Australia is almost the size of the United States, it has a small population of about 20 million.
Very low crime rates, a stable political system, high standards of healthcare and well-maintained roads make Australia a safe and relatively easy country to live in or simply explore.
18. Portugal
You might be surprised to learn that Portugal is one of the calmest countries in the world, but it's true. It has been part of the EU for 26 years and is part of the European Monetary System. Portugal has the 43rd largest economy in the world according to the World Bank. In addition, the country has one of the highest GDP growth rates.
It has a very low crime rate, a high standard of living and a stable government. Plus, stunning sandy beaches, golden plains, majestic mountains and vibrant cities make Portugal one of the best places to live.
19. Qatar
Qatar is perhaps the most stable and industrialized country in the entire Middle East, and the most peaceful in the entire world. Violent incidents are very rare here.
Qatar is one of the most flexible and liberal states in the East, where women have many rights, including the right to work, drive and vote. The country is now committed to National Vision 2030 to achieve a more sustainable and developed economy.
20. Mauritius
In 2013, the country was recognized as the most peaceful state in Africa. The strength of this state lies in the stability of the region and thereby further promotes it as a reliable platform for rich management services and estate planning.
It is a great advantage to live in a peaceful, stable country, and if you are lucky enough to live in one, you should be proud!
The ranking of the British think tank Legatum Institute for 2014 offers the ten most prosperous countries. Well-being is determined by the satisfaction of the residents of these countries, the state of the economy and the income of citizens - a total of 89 criteria.
The Prosperity Index 2014 has been published, an annual ranking of prosperous countries in the world compiled by the British analytical center Legatum Institute. In 2009, experts from the international investment group Legatum began to analyze how satisfied residents of 142 countries are with life. The study covered 96% of the world's population and 99% of the world's population.
When compiling the rating, the state of the economy and the income of citizens are taken into account. The center conducts surveys, trying to determine how comfortable the population feels in different parts of the planet. The standard of living is assessed according to 89 criteria, covering all spheres of the country’s existence - from the possibility of business development and management systems to the state of personal freedoms and security. Data is taken from 12 different sources and each item is scored on a ten-point scale.
In 2014, Russia ranks 68th in the ranking, having dropped by 7 points compared to last year. Our country demonstrated the most active negative dynamics among all European countries. It is regrettable to admit that in the assessment of governance Russia took only 115th place, but in terms of educational level the results are not at all bad - 26th place.
In the post-Soviet space, the most promising indicators are in Lithuania and Latvia - 42 and 44 places in the ranking, respectively. Belarus showed good growth - 53rd place compared to 58 last year. Kazakhstan ranks 55th, down eight points. And Ukraine was able to rise only one place and ended up in 63rd place.
Such prosperous countries as Great Britain, Germany, France, Spain and Italy were not included in the group of leaders. In the group of developing countries, the best results are in Brazil (49), China (54), Mexico (64), Indonesia (71), Turkey (86).
Interestingly, according to the results of a 2014 study, the United States of America is no longer perceived as one of the most democratic countries in the world (21st place). The USA lost its leading positions not only to Norway and New Zealand, but also to Uruguay (8) and Costa Rica (15). The group of leading countries in economic development included the leading Asian countries: Singapore (2nd place), China (6th), Japan (7th) and South Korea (9th). This fact may indicate the enormous potential of this region.
10. USA
The United States has the best health care in the world, but in terms of safety the country ranks a disreputable 31st place. Inflation in 2014 was 1.5%.
The United States was able to return to the ranking of happy countries, displacing Luxembourg, which was able to stay on the list for only one year. Experts praised freedom of enterprise and public administration, placing the United States in third place in the ranking. Oddly enough, Americans rated their personal freedoms and the level of the education system not too highly - 9th place. In the economic sphere, things are even worse - 14th place. The state of security looks very sad - 25th place on the list.
9. Netherlands
The Dutch rank fourth in the Education indicator (4th line), but in the Economy criterion they are in 25th place. Inflation – 2.5%. For the fourth year now, the Netherlands has occupied one of the last places in the ranking, and in the last two years the country has shown rather modest economic indicators. Positive changes occurred in the areas of healthcare (6) and education (4).
8. Finland
Life in this country is very safe - 4th ranking result, but the state of the economy is not the best - 26th line; last year Finland occupied the same position. Inflation – 1.5%. The country consistently occupies high positions in the ranking, but unemployment remains a serious problem that worries Finns. Only 17% of respondents are confident that they will easily find work if necessary.
7. Australia
Australia has the highest level of education - the country deservedly ranks first in the world according to this criterion. But there are security problems - only 16th position. Inflation in 2014 reached 2.4%. In last year's ranking, Australia was in the same seventh position in the list of the best. Experts note the tolerant attitude of Australians towards migrants, although perhaps they are the reason for the low level of security.
6. Sweden
The country can be proud of its business development opportunities. According to this indicator, Sweden is in first place. But for some reason, the education criterion does not rise above 16th place in the ranking. The country's economy is in excellent condition - in 2014 the country had zero inflation.
5. Canada
Education in the country is doing well – 2nd place in the ranking. But the state of business in Canada is not rated so highly by experts - 17th line. The inflation rate is enviable - only 0.9%. Last year, Canada was two places higher. Many respondents (38.7%) noted that they are concerned about corruption in the country. Experts from the Legatim Institute could not help but note the tolerance towards migrants and the very high level of personal freedoms.
4. Denmark
This prosperous country has excellent business opportunities - 2nd place in the ranking, but the Danish economy is only in 18th place. Inflation this year is minimal - only 0.8%. The Danes have problems with unemployment, which increased by 7.5% in 2014. At the same time, only 22.1% of respondents expressed confidence that they would easily be able to find a new job in the event of dismissal.
3. New Zealand
New Zealand can be considered the country with the highest level of personal freedoms in the world. Unfortunately, there are problems with healthcare, as evidenced by the 20th position in the ranking for this indicator. Inflation in 2014 was only 0.9%. New Zealand moved into the top three, moving up two places over the year. 96% of happy New Zealanders are confident that if they lose their job, the government will support them. However, there is no particular reason for concern - the unemployment rate is low - only 6.9%.
2. Switzerland
Switzerland's economy is traditionally stable, and its public administration is exemplary - according to these criteria, the country is the best in the world. There was no inflation observed in 2014 – the figure was -0.2%. Experts noted that the level of Swiss education lags behind the overall excellent picture, giving the country only 21st place in this indicator. But the Swiss are quite satisfied with the quality of education and have almost no complaints about it - 84.6% of respondents reported this.
1. Norway
Already a traditional leader in the ranking of the most prosperous countries in the world. Norway has been ranked first in the Prosperity Index for six years in a row. True, the country does not have the best indicators of business and opportunities (line 7), but according to the “social capital” criterion, this Scandinavian country ranks first in the world. Inflation in 2014 was 2.1%.
The stability of the country makes Norwegians feel happy. The vast majority of the country's citizens do not feel worried when thinking about the future - 94.9% are confident in stable well-being. Norwegians are almost not even concerned about the problem of unemployment - 66.1% of respondents expressed confidence that they could easily find a job.
Every year, experts evaluate cities around the world on many parameters, such as medicine, level of culture and education, infrastructure, ecology, etc. The following are best cities to live in the world 2016— top 10 rating.
10. Hamburg (95 points)
The list of the best cities to live in 2016 opens with the German Hamburg, which received 95 points out of 100.
In terms of population density, Hamburg is second only to Berlin; the number of city residents is more than 1 million 800 thousand people. Hamburg is known for its museums, the most famous of which is the Hamburg Kunsthalle, as well as its theaters. For lovers of walks, more than 120 parks were built in Hamburg. Additionally, a botanical garden is open all year round, containing much of the flora of Asia and Europe. Another attraction is the artificial lake Alster, as well as the nearby “health path”. Hamburg is considered the largest of all port cities in Europe, its industry includes oil refineries, shipyards, and factories for processing raw materials supplied from abroad.
9. Helsinki (95.6 points)
Helsinki is the ninth most livable city. It is the capital of Finland and the largest city in the country with a population of 600 thousand inhabitants. Helsinki is currently experiencing a period of rapid development as large numbers of people migrate there from neighboring provinces. This is a cozy city, with many small cafes and comfortable hotels. Visitors here are treated with great attention and care.
8. Auckland (95.7 points)
Auckland was included in the top ten best cities to live in 2016. It is the most populous city in New Zealand. More than 1.3 million people live within its borders, which is 32% of the population of the entire country. One of Auckland's main sources of income is attracting foreign students to study, since the city is home to a large number of universities and other educational institutions. People from all over the world come here to study. Often students study in parallel not only in English courses, but also in technological institutes or universities.
7. Perth (95.9 points)
The city of Perth was also recognized as one of the best places to live. It is located in the southwestern part of Australia. The number of residents is about 2 million people, which is about 75% of the total population of the state. Another name is “City of Lights”. This city became famous in 1962, when local residents turned on all their lights en masse as the American spaceship Friendship flew overhead. Perth has also become home to such actors as Heath Ledger and Toby Schmitz. The founders and members of such musical groups as Make Them Suffer, Karnivool, Knife Party, Tame Impala came from this city.
6. Adelaide (96.6 points)
On the 6th line is one of the best cities to live in Australia - Adelaide. This large city is located in the state of South Australia and is also its administrative center. It is the fifth most populous city with 1.2 million inhabitants. In the center of this city, many gardens have been erected, which has a positive effect on its appearance and ecology. Adelaide was previously known as a zone of religious freedom, civil rights, and progressive politics. Today the city is better known for its festivals, wines and sporting achievements.
5. Calgary (96.6 points)
Calgary occupies the middle of the ranking of the best cities to live. This is a fairly famous city in Canada; according to the latest statistics, it is inhabited by 1.1 million people. The main business is tied to industry, agriculture, and tourism. Of all the sports, football and hockey are the most popular. Calgary is located in a temperate latitude, but the weather is largely determined by the altitude and how close the Rocky Mountains are. Therefore, this area can have quite cold winters, but the warm Chinook wind can raise the temperature to +15 degrees Celsius in just a couple of hours. Such changes pose a health hazard to visitors who are not accustomed to this lifestyle. Despite this, Calgary is developing very actively and its suburbs are growing literally by the hour.
4. Toronto (97.2 points)
Toronto is the largest metropolis in Canada and at the same time the administrative center of the province of Ontario. Almost half of the city's population consists of immigrants from distant countries. For example, about 10% of Toronto's total citizens are from India. The most interesting feature of the city is the active support of the emigrant culture, so assimilation is not as pronounced as in other places with a large number of newcomers. However, Toronto is one of the safest cities in the entire American continent, making it one of the best places to live.
3. Vancouver (97.3 points)
According to the authoritative British publication The Economist, Vancouver has been recognized three times as the world's best city to live. In 2016 he took third place, which is also not bad. Vancouver is located on the west coast of Canada. The city is home to 2.3 million people. The climate is quite mild and warm. Heavy precipitation occurs in spring, autumn and winter, with the exception of dry summers. Interestingly, more than half of Vancouver's citizens do not speak English as their first language, making the city the most linguistically diverse in all of Canada. Vancouver has a highly developed industry, with businesses in programming, biotechnology, and the film industry also gaining momentum. Thanks to the picturesque landscapes and a large number of different attractions, the city is often visited by tourists. Travelers are mainly interested in the gardens, Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, mountains, and the forests that surround the city. About a million tourists visit Vancouver every year on cruise ships heading to Alaska.
9. Vienna (97.4 points)
Second place in the ranking of the most favorable cities for living was taken by the capital of Austria - Vienna. The city's population is more than 1.8 million people, and taking into account the suburbs this figure increases to 2.3 million, which is almost 25% of the total population. Vienna is the center of economic and political life in Austria, the seat of the UN. The city regularly receives high marks in the areas of infrastructure, environmental protection, culture and safety. Vienna has long been famous for its music festivals. In addition, the real estate market in Vienna is constantly developing, unlike the rest of Europe, which has been in crisis for a long time.
1. Melbourne (97.5 points)
According to The Economist, Melbourne is the best city to live in the world for 2016. It is the second most important and largest city in Australia. The number of its inhabitants is more than four million, including the suburbs. Melbourne is also the cultural and sports capital of the country, as all major events take place here. The city's population is extremely diverse. People from all over the world have found their home in it, but there is no national discord in it. Melbourne's architectural style is modern, with a touch of Victorian. For lovers of fresh air, a large number of parks and gardens have been built in the city, so Melbourne has a good environment.
Analyzing various surveys ranking the best countries, cities and places to live and live, we found that all the criteria that determine the quality of life in states are largely similar. We invite you to make your own choice of the best states and countries to live in, in which the local population and visitors for permanent residence can best live. And to compare countries where the standard of living is higher, I will provide data from two ratings at once.
So. Based on a study compiled by the UN, we offer a list of ten countries that have the best conditions for living and permanent living.
Which countries have a higher standard of living?
The main parameters that determine a decent standard of living in the country were identified: a high level of knowledge, as well as the education of the population, high standards of living, and human life expectancy.The main factor in the quality of life, according to the UN, is a person’s income, as well as the country’s GDP. In all developed countries, such data are quite high.
The best countries for life expectancy
Norway, according to this study, is considered a livable country, located on the first line. Another indicator that was taken as a basis for the study is the life expectancy of the population.
There is an opinion of experts that in countries such as Switzerland, Australia and Singapore, people born in 2013 will live more than 82 years. They live even longer only in Asia, but Europeans are quite unusual in living there.
Top countries by education level
Therefore, the next indicator of quality of life is education. The duration of education of citizens of developed countries in schools is more than 12 years. But education doesn't end there. Young people continue to study for 25 years.
It is also encouraging that this list of the best countries in terms of standard of living and “happiness” of residence includes five European countries.
The best countries to live
Denmark
This northern country's population enjoys one of the best healthcare and social security systems. Therefore, the human development index in this state is 0.900. And life expectancy at birth is 79.4 years.
High taxes for the population are one of the sources of income in the state. And the government spends a lot of money on education and health care. The gross per capita income in Denmark is $42,880. In addition, it is one of the most democratic countries in terms of gender equality.Singapore
This is one of the Asian countries with the lowest mortality rate for both women and men, respectively, and one of the best and recommended countries for permanent residence. The Human Development Index is 0.901. Singapore is the richest country in the world, with a per capita GDP of $72,371.
Singaporean students perform well in maths and science, with the expected duration of study in the country being 15.4 years. And life expectancy at birth is expected to be about 82.3 years.
Canada
Canada was able to rise to third place in the study due to the high quality of education in the country, the estimated duration of study is 15.9 years.
The performance of Canadian students turned out to be high in the fields of mathematics and natural sciences. And many Canadians over the age of 25 have a second higher education.
The health insurance system covers basic medical procedures, largely due to this, the life expectancy at birth is 81.5 years. And this is thanks to the high GDP per capita - $41,887. In general, the human development index in Canada is estimated at 0.902.
What is the best country in terms of education?
New Zealand
The next state in the ranking of the best countries to live in is New Zealand. And although the country's development indicators are inferior to previous countries, students in New Zealand will continue to study for an average of 19.4 years. In 2012, this country spent 7.2% of its GDP on education.
According to these data and the duration of education, New Zealand ranks first in the world. Other indicators are also high: life expectancy at birth: 81.1 years.
The Human Development Index is 0.910 and the GDP per capita is projected to be $32,569.
Germany
This state has a well-developed economy. GDP per capita of $43,049, providing 100% of the population with pensions upon reaching retirement age.
Life expectancy at birth is predicted to be 80.7 years. The country's population spends an average of 16.3 years studying. And the human development index is 0.911.
USA
At the same time, this state has its own problems: gender and income inequality. The country has a high level of development in such areas as culture, science, business, and the duration of study reaches 16.5 years.
The best countries to live in
Netherlands
According to the UN index, the Netherlands is one of the most suitable and best countries to live in. After all, the human development index is 0.915.
Gender equality in this state can be judged by such indicators as the number of women in parliament - 37.8%. Per capita income is $42,397.
Residents of this state study for an average of 17.9 years. And the predicted life expectancy at birth will be 81.0 years.
Switzerland
Economically and politically stable, Switzerland can rightfully be proud of its high life expectancy at birth: 82.6 years.
Although the country has a human development index of 0.917 and a per capita GDP of $53,762, the country has introduced quotas to control migration, so it is not so easy to get permanent residence in Switzerland. However, Switzerland has a high gender equality score and an expected length of study of 15.7 years
Australia
Australia completes the list of the most ideal countries to live in. This state has the lowest unemployment rate among developed countries in Europe and the United States.
The economy of this state is developing successfully and, as a result, the gross income per capita is $41,524. Australia's Human Development Index is 0.933. Australians have a life expectancy of 19.9 years and a life expectancy at birth of 82.5 years.
The best and worst country to live and live in
In 2014, based on the Legatum Institute rating, Switzerland was recognized as the best country to live in. And this will be the second rating, which we can use to determine the standard of living and well-being in various countries of the world.
By the way, according to analysts, the United States is in last place. After all, only healthcare shows the highest data in this state.And the rest of the indicators are as follows: in terms of the level of safety of citizens, the United States is in 25th place in the world. The economy ranks 14th in the ranking, education -9.
In third place, indicators of government and entrepreneurship, personal freedom in the United States were rated only 9 points, although the Americans themselves believe that democracy is at its best in the United States and even brings it to the rest of the world.
The best countries in terms of living standards
Switzerland is content with eighth place in terms of living standards. This is due to the high indicators in the system of public administration and economic development of the country.
Analysts believe that healthcare and social development systems have reached the level of third and sixth places in the ranking. Life safety ranks 12th, and the imperfect education system in the state, only in 29th place, spoiled all previous indicators.
Canada is ranked seventh among the best countries to live. Based on the security indicators in this state, we can say that a lot of work needs to be done in this direction; 16th place in the ranking is a low indicator.
The 11th and 12th places are occupied by data in the field of health care and education. State management systems and economic indicators, on the contrary, occupy fifth position.Business development and social guarantees for the population are ranked tenth and eighth, respectively. Canada was able to rise to seventh place due to the fact that Canadians themselves are very relaxed people, and according to this indicator, the state is in first place in the ranking.
With equal indicators according to the survey criteria, Sweden was in sixth place in the ranking of living standards. For those wishing to settle in this country, it should be noted that it will be convenient to engage in entrepreneurship; these indicators were awarded 2nd place in the ranking. And one of the lowest indicators was social stability in 11th place.
Best education system in the world
Legatum Institut experts also recognized New Zealand's education system as the best on the planet. This indicator was decisive in awarding the country fifth place.
The third line of the survey contains indicators of social accumulation and personal independence. But the figures for the development of commerce and the economy in this country are a little disappointing - 14th and 17th places. The healthcare system is only in 19th place in the ranking.
Australia is only 4 points ahead of its neighbor New Zealand in health care, ranking 15th. But good performance in the education system - 2nd place - made it possible to rise to fourth place in the ranking.If we talk about other data, it should be noted that the freedom of citizens and the social income of the population occupy 4th place. But business and citizen safety in Australia have let us down a bit - 13th place in the world
The most prosperous countries in the world
Finland is in third position in the list of safest countries to live in the world, according to the Legatum Institute.
It’s safe to live in this country, and there are also excellent opportunities for study - 3rd place in the ranking. Although entrepreneurship ranks fourth, personal freedom in Finland ranks 12th.
The best country for entrepreneurship and business
Denmark is considered the best country in the world where great opportunities have been created for entrepreneurs and businessmen in the world. This state is located on the 2nd stage.
High indicators in the field of public administration, economic development and social guarantees for citizens are the key to living in this country. But the quality of medical care for the population is only in 17th place. Therefore, it is worth thinking about when choosing this country to live.
Best country in the world
Norway is in first place in the survey. This state has the highest indicators in the world in the areas of economics and social guarantees.
The safety and personal freedom of citizens was given a high rating - second place in the ranking. In fourth place are education and healthcare. The sixth position is occupied by the development of entrepreneurship. However, only in twelfth place is the state management system.
