Expats: Dublin 34th for living standards

Dublin has been ranked 34th in a league table of 223 global cities for best quality of living standards for expatriates.

The report was conducted by international consultancy Mercer.

It shows European cities dominate; with Vienna top and four others — Zurich, Munich, Dusseldorf and Frankfurt in the top 10.

Mercer analysed 39 factors seen to be important for expatriates and ranked the 223 cities based on its findings.

The company claims the survey helps multinational firms compensate their expatriate employees, as well as helping governments to benchmark their cities’ attractiveness for expats.

Dublin ranked higher than London and Miami, with European hubs in general ranking highly on account of low crime levels and political stability; allowing for expats to feel safe in their new surroundings.

“Some of the factors placing Dublin firmly in the top 50 for quality of living worldwide include our educational facilities, lower levels of air pollution and recreational and social activities” said Noel O’Connor, senior consultant with Mercer.

“European cities enjoy a high overall quality of living compared to those in other regions. Healthcare, infrastructure, and recreational facilities are generally of a very high standard. Political stability and relatively low crime levels enable expatriates to feel safe and secure in most locations. The region has seen few changes in living standards over the last year,” he added.

Canadian cities come out best in north America. Vancouver is ranked fifth with Ottawa, Toronto and Montreal all in the top 25.

“In a world economy that is becoming more globalised, cities beyond the traditional financial and business centres are working to improve their quality of living so they can attract more foreign companies,” said Mercer senior researcher Slagin Parakatil.