This beautiful yet underrated Dutch city was named the world’s least stressed place to live in – find out why

Eindhoven, Netherlands, ranked the world’s most relaxing city in 2026, offering short commutes, low pollution, and a serene lifestyle away from crowded tourist hubs.

City life doesn’t have to be a daily grind of honking traffic, crowded metros, and endless stress. According to a new global study by digital financial service Remitly, some cities actually offer the calm, balance, and quality of life urban dwellers dream of — and the world’s least stressed city is quietly nestled in the Netherlands: Eindhoven.

Remitly analysed 170 cities worldwide, evaluating five key stress indicators: average commute time for 10 km, pollution levels, cost of living, healthcare quality and accessibility, and crime perception based on global surveys. Each city was given a stress score from 1 to 10, with 10 being the most stressful.

Eindhoven emerged as the least stressful city, scoring just 2.34 out of 10, thanks to:

• Short commute times (average 14 minutes and 37 seconds for 10 km).
• Exceptionally clean air and low pollution levels.
• Efficient public services and strong infrastructure.
• Accessible, high-quality healthcare under the Netherlands’ robust system.

Residents here enjoy a life of convenience and comfort, with daily routines made easier by minimal travel stress and reliable public services.

Unlike Amsterdam or Rotterdam, Eindhoven doesn’t draw massive tourist crowds, which contributes to its stress-free streets. Nestled in southern Netherlands, it combines modernity with a relaxed pace of life. While it’s known internationally for football matches at PSV’s Philips Stadium or budget travel connections, the city is also a hub for creative design and post-industrial reinvention.

Despite its post-war rebuild — the city was heavily bombed during World War II — Eindhoven today is an intriguing blend of history, innovation, and quirky architecture, making it ideal for travellers who enjoy both culture and calm.

For visitors or potential expats looking for a balance of leisure and culture, Eindhoven offers plenty:

Strijp-S – Explore the “forbidden city,” a creative district with art studios and cafes.

Museum hopping – From the Philips Museum to modern-art galleries.

Philips Village – Discover the legacy of the electronics giant that shaped the city.

St. Catherine’s Church – Admire neo-Gothic architecture and serene interiors.

Bike tours – Experience the city like a local.

Vane Skybar – Catch a stunning sunset with panoramic views.

Unique buildings – Marvel at UFO-shaped 1960s architecture.

MU Hybrid Art House – Explore contemporary art exhibitions.

The study highlights that cities with strong infrastructure, affordable living costs, low crime rates, and accessible healthcare consistently offer lower stress levels. Eindhoven combines all of these elements, proving that urban living doesn’t have to come at the cost of well-being.

Whether you’re considering relocation, a long-term stay, or a serene European getaway, Eindhoven promises a lifestyle that prioritises calm, convenience, and quality of life — a refreshing alternative to the chaos of larger, crowded cities.