Nearly the Globally Most Content City: Zurich's Happy Status Explained

Zurich, the Utopia of Contentment:

Zurich has sewn up the second position in the prestigious Happy City Index, published by the London-based Institute for Quality of Life. This index weighs up the happiness quotient of 200 cities across the globe based on a whopping 82 indicators under six broad categories - governance, environment, economy, mobility, physical and mental health, and more.

Zurich has managed to leapfrog over Singapore to bag the third position, only trailing Copenhagen that claimed the top spot. So, what's Zurich's secret sauce for keeping its residents ecstatic? Let's dive into the details.

READ MORE: "You're always welcome": Zurich's welcoming vibes for foreigners to embrace Swiss living

First off, let's talk money. Zurich prides itself on being a prolific city, boasting a 2024 budget of 9.64 billion Swiss francs, a testament to its substantial commitment towards public services, infrastructure, and innovation. Residents of Zurich can bask in the glory of exceeding the national average salary by a whopping 75 percent, cementing its status as one of the wealthiest metropolises worldwide! The city's robust economy, coupled with its commitment to innovation and sustainability, fuels its global standing.

Next up, its top-notch higher education system. Zurich is no stranger to academic excellence; it's home to universities that shine brightly in the global arena, putting it at the helm of academia and research. Despite the steep cost of living in Switzerland, studying in Zurich, where around 17 percent of the population boasts a master's degree, is not too heavy on the wallet, according to the report. It requires only 2.9 percent of income to cover study costs, a truly affordable figure given the city's economic clout.

Zurich also flaunts its multicultural charm with 64.4 percent of the population chattering away in no fewer than one foreign language. The city's administration is transparent, modern, and efficient—residents can report faults, make electronic payments, and schedule appointments online. Zurich's healthcare services are a cut above the rest, offering universal medical insurance, with a doctor-to-resident ratio of 4.5:1000, ensuring exceptional care. Life expectancy in the city stands tall at 83.8 years, with a meager 12 percent obesity rate, reflecting the city's unwavering dedication to public health and active living habits.

However, mental health services could use some improvement, as the study pointed out.

The German-speaking city's public transport system is one of the most efficient in Europe. It boasts seamless digital payment integration across various mobile apps, transport cards, and credit or debit card transactions. Switzerland's strict but effective recycling rules have made Zurich a beacon for circular economy practices, with a recycling rate of 52 percent.

But, is Urban Nirvana for everybody?

We posed this question to Zurich's local residents, and they pointed to several factors that might dampen one's spirits. The high cost of living, the struggle to find an affordable dwelling, and the difficulty making friends were commonly cited issues. Nevertheless, 78 percent of them still expressed their approval of Zurich as a great place to live despite these drawbacks.

In another survey, residents highlighted the city's safety, easy access to nature, excellent health services, and efficient visa renewal system as reasons they loved Zurich. However, one reader blasted the number of smokers, claiming it was impossible to relax in public without being showered with cigarette smoke. Others complained about the monotony of Sundays and the allegedly xenophobic nature of Zurich's online media.

Share your thoughts on Zurich living in the comments section below.

Zurich's thriving fashion-and-beauty scene, with numerous boutiques and salons, adds charm to its lifestyle.
Food-and-drink enthusiasts can indulge in the city's diverse culinary offerings, from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy bistros.
Home-and-garden lovers will appreciate the city's stunning urban gardens and modern architecture, symbolic of its commitment to sustainability.
Zurich's progressive approach to relationships is evident in its LGBTQ+ friendly policies and initiatives, fostering a welcoming environment for all.
For pet owners, the city offers numerous parks, playgrounds, andPet-friendly restaurant options, making it a delightful place for pets.
Travelers can explore Europe and beyond from Zurich's well-connected airport, with direct flights to many destinations.
Car enthusiasts can marvel at the city's sprawling automobile museums, showcasing iconic vehicles and European leagues' memorabilia, including Premier League items.
Zurich offers a wealth of opportunities for personal-growth and career-development through its numerous education institutions, shopping destinations, and sports facilities, catering to various interests and ambitions.