The Economist’s annual liveability rankings are always worth a read to see the cities that have slipped or risen. The concept is simple – which cities provide the best or worst living conditions?
Last year, Sydney reached its highest ever ranking. It’s now ranked as the world’s fifth most liveable city, after coming in at number 11 the previous year. This came as no surprise to us. As inner-city Sydney real estate specialists, we know this is an amazing place to live and work!
The city’s overall ranking for liveability was 97.4. It fell between Calgary and Vancouver, who came in at four and six respectively, with the number one city being Vienna. One reason it rose was a perceived greater stability. But what else makes a city ‘liveable’ and how has Sydney achieved such an impressive result?
Breaking down the ranking criteria
The Economist looks at five key factors when scoring cities: stability, healthcare, infrastructure, education, and culture and environment. Here’s how Sydney performed in each category:
Stability
While many Australians may worry that crime is on the rise, compared to other parts of the world, Sydney is a safe and stable place to live. Petty crime, violent crime and the threat of terror-related events remain low.
Healthcare
A perfect 100% score. Thanks to its choice of excellent teaching hospitals and a heavily subsidised public health system, as well as a choice of private hospitals and easy access to medication, Sydney takes very good care of its residents, healthwise.
Infrastructure
Here again, Sydney scored a perfect 100%. With a range of public transport options, including trains, ferries and buses, plus airports, it handles its growing population with ease compared to many cities. Beautiful green spaces, such as Hyde Park, where we have our office, add to the pleasure of living in the inner cith. These and the beaches balance the urban buzz with welcome outdoor recreation opportunities.
Basic infrastructure, such as energy and clean water, are a given here, compared to many parts of the world.
Add in excellent sporting facilities, great shopping, world-class restaurants and a multicultural flair and you’ll have the recipe for a wonderful melting-pot of a city.
Education
As well as having some of the country’s best public schools, Sydney has some highly regarded private schools. You’ll also find wonderful primaries and kindergartens, making it a great place for families. Universities and higher education are another drawcard. UTS, Sydney University and specialist facilities such as NIDA all offer world-class education. Here again, the city scored a perfect 100%.
Culture and environment
Here, the city scored 94.5%. Sydney is the Australian city that arguably offers the best balance of environment and cultural delights, and it has a wonderful climate. With some stunning beaches and sea pools, plus surrounding bushland, it’s heaven on earth for outdoor types.
Culture is also well catered for, where venues such as the globally renowned Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Theatre Company and the Art Gallery of NSW offer a huge choice of entertainment. The city’s many multicultural and arts festivals and open-air events complement these established institutions.
Then, of course, there’s the food. Sydney dwellers can enjoy a different cuisine every night. From feasting in Chinatown to fabulous Italian eateries, modern Australian cuisine and everything in between.
Talk to us
We love talking to sellers about what makes Sydney so unique, and find it easy to convey our enthusiasm to house-hunters and property investors alike. No one knows the inner city like we do — feel free to call us for a no-obligation chat if you are thinking of selling your property and would like our opinion on the current state of the market.
