Adelaide has further cemented its reputation as one of the world’s best places to live, rising to eighth place in the Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2026 Global Liveability Index.
The result marks an improvement from Adelaide’s ninth-place ranking in 2025 and continues the city’s impressive upward trajectory, having climbed from 30th place just three years ago.
The annual index assesses 173 cities worldwide across key categories including stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. Copenhagen was ranked the world's most liveable city, followed by Vienna.
This latest ranking places Adelaide among an elite group of global cities recognised for their liveability, with strengths including world-class healthcare and education systems, robust infrastructure, and a vibrant cultural and events scene.
Adelaide continues to outperform many larger international cities, including Tokyo and Vancouver, demonstrating that residents can enjoy both the opportunities of a growing economy and the benefits of a highly liveable urban environment.
The recognition comes as Adelaide continues to build momentum as a destination for major events and experiences, with events such as AFL Gather Round, the bp Adelaide Grand Final, Adelaide Festival, Adelaide Fringe and WOMADelaide attracting visitors from around the world.
For South Australians, the ranking is another endorsement of the lifestyle, opportunities and community that make Adelaide a standout city on the global stage — and highlights the city’s ongoing transformation into one of the world’s most desirable places to live, work, visit and invest.
