These are the world’s 10 best cities to raise a family in 2026

When it comes to choosing the perfect city to raise children, parents weigh far more than just career prospects or lifestyle perks. Safety, education, healthcare, affordability, outdoor spaces, parental leave policies, and overall happiness all play a crucial role. A vibrant city can offer children exposure to culture, diversity, museums, sports, and green spaces — shaping not just their childhood, but their future.
A recent global study by Compare the Market AU evaluated 50 cities using nine key indicators, including safety scores, World Happiness rankings, green spaces per capita, child vaccination rates, parental leave duration, national education spending, family benefits expenditure, cost of living, and the number of things to do with kids. The result? A well-rounded list of cities that offer strong foundations for young families. Here are the world’s top 10 cities to raise a family — and why they stand out.

1. Brisbane
Index score: 6.457/10
Brisbane claims the top spot thanks to its exceptional balance of safety, healthcare standards, and access to green spaces. With an impressive 84.89 parks and playgrounds per 100,000 residents, it offers one of the highest ratios of green areas in the study — giving children ample room to explore, play, and grow outdoors.
The city’s strong safety score and high national child vaccination rate provide added reassurance for parents prioritising health and security. Family-friendly precincts like South Bank, Roma Street Parklands, and its Botanic Gardens make weekend outings effortless. While Australia’s family benefits spending could be higher compared to some European nations, Brisbane’s outdoor lifestyle and community-oriented environment make it an ideal place for raising kids.

2. London
Index score: 5.992/10
London offers an unbeatable mix of history, culture, and opportunity. With 758 kid-friendly attractions — including museums, interactive exhibits, historical landmarks, and parks — children grow up surrounded by world-class learning experiences beyond the classroom.
The UK also offers a generous 54 weeks of combined statutory parental leave, one of the highest in the world. However, London’s high cost of living — averaging over $5,000 per month for a family of four — may be a consideration for many. Safety rankings are slightly lower compared to other cities in the top 10, but the city’s cultural exposure and educational access remain major strengths.

3. Auckland
Index score: 5.460/10
Auckland blends natural beauty with urban convenience. With 67.85 green spaces per capita and 231 kid-friendly activities, the city encourages an active, outdoor-focused childhood. Beaches, hiking trails, parks, and community sports culture are deeply embedded into daily life.
The safety score of 79 reflects a relatively secure environment for families. Although New Zealand’s combined parental leave duration (28 weeks) is shorter than that of Australia or the UK, the country’s healthcare standards and emphasis on work-life balance make Auckland an attractive destination for young families seeking a slower, nature-rich upbringing.

4. Helsinki
Index score: 5.305/10
Helsinki stands out for its exceptional safety score of 95 — the highest among the top-ranked cities. Finland also leads globally in happiness rankings, reinforcing its reputation as a stable and supportive environment for raising children.
Education is a major strength, with Finland investing 6.4% of its GDP into education — one of the highest rates globally. The emphasis on equality, high-quality public schooling, and child wellbeing makes Helsinki particularly appealing for parents who prioritise academic excellence and social stability over fast-paced urban glamour.

5. Sydney
Index score: 5.239/10
Sydney combines coastal beauty with metropolitan energy. With 246 activities for kids — more than double Brisbane’s offerings — families have access to beaches, wildlife parks, museums, sporting events, and outdoor recreation year-round.
Safety, vaccination rates, and parental leave policies mirror Australia’s strong national standards. The major downside, however, is cost. Sydney is the most expensive Australian city for families, with average monthly expenses crossing $4,100. For those who can manage the budget, it offers a dynamic and well-rounded childhood environment.

6. Perth
Index score: 5.120/10
Perth offers a quieter, less crowded alternative to Australia’s larger cities while maintaining strong safety and healthcare standards. With a safety score of 85 and generous national parental leave policies (54 weeks combined), it provides long-term family security.
The cost of living remains lower than Sydney and Melbourne, making it more financially accessible for many households. While it offers fewer kid-specific attractions than some global capitals, its relaxed pace and coastal lifestyle appeal to families seeking balance and space.

7. Melbourne
Index score: 5.056/10
Melbourne shines in culture and education, offering 166 kid-friendly activities that range from science museums to arts festivals. Safety remains strong, and vaccination rates are high, reflecting Australia’s overall healthcare strength.
While the cost of living is slightly higher than Brisbane and Perth, families benefit from robust parental leave policies and a diverse multicultural environment. Melbourne’s emphasis on arts, sports, and community engagement creates a well-rounded developmental atmosphere for children.

8. Stockholm
Index score: 5.008/10
Stockholm stands out for its high education spending — 7.3% of GDP — and strong child vaccination rates at over 94%. Sweden’s social welfare system is well-known for supporting families through subsidised childcare and education benefits.
Though the cost of living is relatively high, the city’s clean environment, safety score of 78, and access to nature help create a balanced urban lifestyle. Families who prioritise social support systems and educational quality often find Stockholm highly appealing.

9. Berlin
Index score: 4.969/10
Berlin offers an attractive combination of affordability (compared to other Western European capitals), strong public transport, and 206 kid-friendly activities. With nearly 70 green spaces per capita, children enjoy ample access to parks and open areas.
Germany’s education spending and family benefits policies provide moderate support, while the city’s creative and multicultural energy offers children exposure to diverse perspectives. For families seeking cultural vibrancy without extreme living costs, Berlin presents a compelling option.

10. Seoul
Index score: 4.904/10
Seoul stands out with an impressive 710 kid-friendly activities — one of the highest counts in the ranking. The city also boasts a strong child vaccination rate of 96.67%, reflecting robust healthcare infrastructure.
Education investment remains high at 5.8% of GDP, and safety scores are solid. While statutory parental leave is shorter than in Australia or the UK, Seoul’s advanced infrastructure, technology integration, and emphasis on education make it particularly attractive for families prioritising academic achievement.