Calgary Drops in Global Quality of Life Rankings, Now 95th

Calgary has experienced a notable decline in its global quality of life ranking, now positioned at 95th out of 304 cities assessed by Numbeo. This ranking reflects a comprehensive analysis of various factors affecting residents’ daily lives, including safety, healthcare, cost of living, and environmental conditions.

According to the latest report from Numbeo, Calgary received a quality of life index score of 179.1. This score is derived from specific metrics that include purchasing power (125.7), safety (62.2), healthcare (73.4), cost of living (64.5), and traffic commute time (29.4). The city also garnered a score of 23.8 for pollution and 33.1 for climate.

Comparative Analysis of Canadian Cities

In the context of Canadian cities, Calgary holds the sixth-highest position. The city experienced a significant drop from its previous ranking of 74th in 2025, when it scored 179.4. A further decline was noted in mid-2025, with Calgary falling to 102nd place and a score of 176.3. Its Canadian counterpart, Edmonton, ranked 111th with a quality of life index score of 175.2, trailing just behind Calgary.

When examining the North American landscape, Calgary ranks 40th overall. The top city in this region is Ottawa, which boasts a quality of life index score of 198.1. Other notable mentions include Tampa, Florida, with a score of 189.2, and Jacksonville, Florida, with 188.7.

Global Context and Future Outlook

Globally, the Netherlands has emerged as a leader in quality of life rankings, with the top five cities, including The Hague, which claims the number one spot with a score of 230.1. This data underscores a growing trend in which cities in the Netherlands consistently outperform others worldwide.

The changes in Calgary’s ranking raise questions about the factors contributing to its decline. As the city adapts to ongoing challenges, including rising costs and environmental impacts, residents are encouraged to reflect on their satisfaction with the quality of life offered. The full list can be viewed online, allowing for a broader understanding of where Calgary stands in comparison to other cities globally.