PUBLISHED: 13 MARCH 2026
Melbourne has been ranked the world’s best city in the Time Out 2026 Best Cities list.
The ranking draws on a global survey of over 24,000 residents across 150 cities worldwide. Cities are assessed across 44 criteria, including food, culture, nightlife, affordability, happiness, and overall city experience. Melbourne rose three places from its 2025 position to take the top spot.
Local residents rated Melbourne highly for its food, rich arts and cultural scene, neighbourhoods and overall sense of happiness in daily life.
Globally, Melbourne continues to be recognised for its exceptional quality of life and is ranked fourth most liveable city in the world in the latest Global Liveability Index by the Economist Intelligence Unit.
Victoria provides visa nomination pathways for skilled migrants looking to call the city home. For more information on visas, living and working in Victoria, visit the Migrate page.