Karachi has once again been cited as one of the least liveable cities globally, according to The Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) global liveability index for 2025.
The city ranks 170th out of 173 cities, a decline from its previous year’s position of 169th, solidifying its status among the least desirable places to live in the most recent assessment.
The EIU evaluates various criteria, including healthcare, education, stability, infrastructure, and environmental factors. This year, Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, has secured the top spot, overtaking Vienna, which had been recognized as the world’s most liveable city from 2022 to 2024.
Copenhagen Tops the 2025 Global Liveability Index
Copenhagen received flawless scores for stability, education, and infrastructure. Vienna and Zurich shared the second position, followed closely by Melbourne in 4th place, Geneva at 5th, and Sydney at 6th.
Osaka was the only Asian representative in the top ten, tying with Auckland for 7th. Adelaide held the 9th spot, with Vancouver completing the top ten at 10th.
As the sole city from Pakistan on the index, Karachi’s persistent ranking underscores prevailing challenges related to infrastructure, public services, and security, which contribute to its designation as a least liveable city.
At the bottom of the index is Damascus, ranked 173rd, followed by Tripoli at 172nd, Dhaka at 171st, Algiers at 169th, and Lagos at 168th.
The report highlighted a decline in global stability throughout regions like Western Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa in 2024. It also pointed out heightened tensions in Asia due to increased risks of military conflict.
Image Source: Punjab Museum / Shutterstock
