The top 10 of the list is dominated by European cities. Vienna (Austria) is 1, Zurich and Geneva (Switzerland) share place 2 and 3.

Traditionally, Baghdad (Iraq) is at the bottom of the list.

Mercer measures the quality of life in 221 cities worldwide on the basis of 39 criteria in 10 categories. For example, the political climate, economy, social-cultural climate, health and hygiene, education, public transport, recreation and risk of natural disasters are taken into account.

The top 50 can be found on http://www.mercer.com/qualityoflivingpr#City_Ranking_Tables.