Melbourne has been named the world’s third most liveable city and Australia’s highest-ranked city in the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index 2026, reinforcing its appeal as a leading destination for investment, talent and business growth.
Melbourne's liveability gives businesses a competitive advantage
Melbourne has again been recognised as one of the world's best cities to live in, ranking third globally in the Economist Intelligence Unit's Global Liveability Index 2026.
The annual index assessed 173 cities across five categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. Melbourne ranked behind only Copenhagen and Vienna and achieved perfect scores for healthcare and education.
For investors, the ranking reflects more than quality of life. It highlights the conditions that help businesses attract skilled talent, operate efficiently and invest with confidence.
Why Melbourne stands out
- Healthcare – 100/100 – supports a healthy productive workforce and a globally recognised health and life sciences sector.
- Education – 100/100 – delivers a strong pipeline of talent
- Infrastructure – 96/100 – enables efficient business operations
- Culture & Environment – 96/100 - enhances ability to attract, retain and motivate talented employees
- Stability – 95/100 – provides confidence for long term investment
Five reasons investors choose Melbourne
- Access to world-class talent
Melbourne offers one of Australia's deepest talent pools across technology, advanced manufacturing, life sciences, professional services and creative industries. Its diverse, multilingual workforce helps businesses compete in global markets. - A pipeline of future skills
With world-leading universities, vocational education and internationally recognised research institutions, Melbourne continues to develop the skilled workforce businesses need today and into the future. - Infrastructure that supports growth
Modern transport networks, digital connectivity and significant recent investment in city-shaping infrastructure enable businesses to operate efficiently and scale with confidence, now and into the future. - Lifestyle that supports talent attraction
Melbourne's vibrant cultural scene, major events, renowned dining, extensive green spaces and inclusive community make it easier for businesses to attract and retain skilled workers from across Australia and around the world. - Confidence for long-term investment
Melbourne combines a stable business environment, strong institutions, global connectivity and an outstanding quality of life, providing the foundations businesses need to invest and grow over the long term.
Invest in Melbourne
Melbourne's continued recognition in the EIU Global Liveability Index reinforces what global businesses already know: Victoria offers the talent, infrastructure, stability and lifestyle that support long-term business success.
Whether you're establishing your first Australian operation or expanding across the Asia-Pacific region, Invest Victoria can help you identify opportunities, connect with partners and grow your business with confidence.
Ready to explore opportunities in Victoria?
Contact Invest Victoria to discuss your investment plans.
