10 Safest Cities in the World in 2026 Safety, healthcare, infrastructure, and quality of life are among the parameters that set these apart. If you’ve ever wondered where in the world life is easiest, safest, and most comfortable for expatriates, the latest findings from ECA International’s 2025–26 Location Ratings offer a revealing guide.
With an emphasis on personal security, healthcare, infrastructure, and general day-to-day convenience, these rankings highlight the cities where international employees can thrive.
Europe dominates the global liveability map, and this year is no exception. Every city in the top 10 belongs to the continent, showcasing its continued appeal for professionals moving abroad.
From Swiss precision to Nordic stability, European urban centers continue to combine the qualities that matter most for long-term living abroad.
Safest and Most Liveable Cities in the World
1. Bern, Switzerland
At the pinnacle of liveability, Bern stands out for its unmatched safety, well-maintained infrastructure, and low levels of air pollution. Expats here can enjoy a calm, organized city life with easy access to healthcare and leisure activities.
Its historic charm is paired with efficient public transport, making commuting smooth and predictable. For those seeking a blend of tradition and modern convenience, Bern tops the list.
2. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen earns second place thanks to its high-quality healthcare, cycling-friendly streets, and robust social services.
Residents enjoy a strong work-life balance and easy access to green spaces. Political stability, personal safety, and clean air make Denmark’s capital particularly attractive for international professionals looking for a city that supports both career growth and wellbeing.
3. Stavanger, Norway
Norway’s Stavanger takes the bronze, standing out as a coastal city with excellent healthcare, low crime, and stunning natural surroundings.
Its combination of economic opportunity and high living standards makes it ideal for expatriates seeking a balance between professional life and outdoor recreation. Stavanger’s compact layout and strong infrastructure ensure that daily life is convenient and secure.
4. Geneva, Switzerland
Geneva maintains a strong presence in the top tier, celebrated for its political stability, international culture, and exceptional public services.
Home to numerous international organizations, the city is familiar to expatriates and diplomats alike. The city’s low crime rate, reliable utilities, and high-quality healthcare contribute to a secure and comfortable living experience.
5. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
Luxembourg City, a hub for finance and EU institutions, is prized for safety, high-quality infrastructure, and access to international amenities.
Expats here benefit from a cosmopolitan lifestyle while enjoying a city that is small enough to feel intimate but sophisticated enough to provide diverse opportunities in work and leisure.
6. The Hague, Netherlands
The Hague blends cultural richness with robust civic services, making it a strong choice for global professionals.
Known for its international courts and embassies, the city offers reliable transport, excellent healthcare, and a secure environment. Its combination of Dutch efficiency and cultural amenities ensures both safety and quality of life for expats.
7. Vienna, Austria
Vienna, a long-standing favourite for international employees, continues to impress with its low crime rate, comprehensive public services, and cultural vibrancy.
The city scores highly for personal security and urban infrastructure, and its rich history adds a dimension of charm to everyday life. For expatriates seeking stability and sophistication, Vienna is an ideal destination.
8. Munich, Germany
Munich’s strong economy, clean environment, and reliable infrastructure place it among the top cities worldwide. With excellent healthcare, efficient public transport, and abundant recreational options, the city caters to both families and professionals.
Munich combines economic opportunity with a safe and high-quality urban lifestyle.
9. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin makes the top 10 thanks to its thriving business scene, cultural amenities, and strong safety standards. Expats benefit from English-speaking services, robust healthcare, and easy access to European travel. The city’s friendly social atmosphere and reliable infrastructure make it an appealing choice for those relocating internationally.
10. Lisbon, Portugal
Rounding out the top 10, Lisbon impresses with its warm climate, rich cultural heritage, and high-quality services.
The city provides reliable infrastructure, healthcare, and personal safety, making it an attractive destination for expats seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle combined with modern convenience. Lisbon’s affordability relative to other Western European capitals adds to its appeal.
What Makes These Cities Stand Out
According to ECA International, cities that rank high in liveability share several common traits:
- Safety and Security: Low crime rates and political stability create a sense of personal security.
- Quality Infrastructure: Efficient transport, reliable utilities, and well-maintained urban services.
- Healthcare Access: Quick access to quality medical care is essential for international employees.
- Environmental Standards: Low pollution and access to green spaces contribute to overall well-being.
- Cultural and Social Amenities: Recreational opportunities, cultural activities, and social networks help expats integrate.
ECA evaluates over 500 locations worldwide, using a consistent methodology to assess climate, housing, healthcare, personal safety, political tensions, and access to essential services. This ensures that the rankings reflect not just economic opportunity, but overall day-to-day liveability for expatriates.
Europe’s Continued Dominance
European cities occupy 38 of the top 50 global locations, demonstrating the continent’s ongoing appeal for international employees. Countries such as Switzerland, Denmark, Norway, Austria, and Germany consistently deliver balanced, high-quality living conditions.
Conversely, cities in regions affected by conflict or limited infrastructure—such as parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia—tend to dominate the lower rankings.
For organizations and individuals planning overseas assignments, the ECA Location Ratings provide a reliable data-driven guide. Beyond ranking, the report offers insights into:
- Cost-of-living comparisons
- Housing availability and quality
- Healthcare accessibility
- Environmental factors and air quality
- Social and recreational infrastructure
These insights help both employers and expatriates make informed decisions about assignments, relocation, and quality of life abroad.
Bottom Line
From Bern to Lisbon, Europe continues to set the global standard for safe and liveable cities. For expatriates, these top 10 cities represent the ideal combination of security, comfort, infrastructure, and opportunity.
Whether moving for work, lifestyle, or adventure, these destinations make life abroad both feasible and enjoyable.