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Every New Year many Americans commit to healthier habits—more exercise, a plant-forward diet, cutting processed foods or a mix of changes. Those good intentions often last weeks or months, sometimes disappearing when seasonal treats return. But your environment also shapes health. Spotahome’s Healthy City Index evaluated 80 cities worldwide on measures such as sunshine hours, life expectancy, obesity rates, work-life balance, air and water quality, and access to green space. Below are the seven cities that scored highest for overall health and wellbeing. -
Vienna ranks seventh thanks to limited fast-food density, excellent air and water quality, and abundant green space. The city’s healthcare initiatives aim to raise residents’ life expectancy by 1.5 years by 2025 through workplace wellness programs and improved health literacy, reinforcing Vienna’s reputation as a city that supports healthy living.
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Tallinn, Estonia, is sixth on the list. It scores highly for fitness infrastructure and low pollution levels, although it has fewer electric vehicle charging points and relatively limited annual sunshine. According to the World Health Organization, Tallinn is among the least polluted capitals, contributing to cleaner air for residents.
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Berlin places fifth, supported by plentiful green areas and a high number of electric vehicle charging stations. The city’s dynamic culture and infrastructure also make it attractive to young professionals, offering a balance of work opportunities, housing options, tolerance and recreational amenities that can support a healthy lifestyle.
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Rotterdam is fourth on the index. The city benefits from a health-focused corporate culture, low fast-food density and recognition from the World Health Organization as a Healthy City—an award reflecting high housing standards, sustainable practices and strong community support for residents’ wellbeing.
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Munich ranks third and is consistently noted for its high quality of life. The city combines efficient public transport, rich cultural offerings and a community-oriented atmosphere, features that support both physical and mental wellbeing for residents.
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Oslo takes second place, with strong life expectancy figures, abundant green spaces, a healthy work-life balance, excellent air and water quality, and relatively few fast-food outlets. Those factors combine to create an environment that supports long-term health for residents.
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Amsterdam ranks first in the Healthy City Index. It scores highly for employee work-life balance, generous annual vacation time and ample green space. While it may not be known for endless sunshine, the city’s canals, parks and cycling infrastructure contribute to a lifestyle that supports physical activity and overall wellbeing.
