10 least stressful cities in the world according to stress rating

Stress is something most people are constantly trying to get rid of, exhaustion. The United States is the second most stressed country in the world, and every year more and more people are experiencing extreme exhaustion.

William Russell, an insurance company for expats, has published a study of the most and least stressed cities and countries in the world in 2023 based on factors such as cleanliness, median income, poverty, and cost of living. It found that the 10 least stressed cities in the world were in Europe, with the exception of Dubai. This was reported by thetravel.com.

10. Manchester, UK

Stress score: 3,51/10

Living and visiting Manchester can be an incredibly rewarding experience. It has a large number of young students, football, restaurants and bars, and live entertainment that contribute to a happy social life for people. The job market in Manchester is thriving, providing hundreds of jobs for young professionals without exhausting competition. Manchester is the perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy an evening out with friends after a day's work.

9. London, United Kingdom

Stress rating: 3,49/10

It's hard to think that a bustling capital city like London would be one of the least stressful cities in the world. However, despite its competitive labor market, London offers a variety of interesting activities to help people find a healthy work-life balance, such as visiting museums, parks, and restaurants.

Many Londoners have switched to working from home or mixed work schedules, which has benefited not only employees but also employers. Londoners find themselves more productive and less stressed, while businesses can expand with more remote workers. In general, Londoners have experienced a better quality of life in recent years and can focus more on living a fulfilling life thanks to remote work.

8. Barcelona, Spain

Stress Rating: 3,41/10

Life in Barcelona is always bright, fun and stress-free. There are many reasons for this, but the #1 reason is simply the culture. When it comes to work, Barcelona's commitment to a healthy work-life balance and emphasis on leisurely activities and time spent with family and friends is second to none. When people aren't working, they enjoy the many outdoor spaces: the beach, the mountains, or open-air cafes. A city with an affordable cost of living and rich culture at every turn, ensures a very low stress level in Barcelona.

7. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Stress rating: 3,39/10

For travelers looking for a lively work-life atmosphere with endless possibilities, they're likely to find it in Dubai. With an incredibly high safety index and one of the most stable labor markets in the world, tourists, expats, and locals alike experience very little stress in their daily lives.

6. Birmingham, UK

Stress rating: 3,33/10

Birmingham is another major city in the UK that, like London, is experiencing a remote work boom and thrives on a more relaxed work environment. Another factor contributing to Birmingham's relaxed environment is the abundance of outdoor parks, original restaurants, art exhibitions, and museums that give people plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities after work.

In addition to a positive work-life balance, Birmingham also boasts a 1% homelessness rate, affordable housing, and a comfortable monthly cost of living!

5. Madrid, Spain

Stress score: 3,13/10

Madrid is not only the capital of Spain, but also the cultural capital of Europe, boasting midnight feasts, live music, festivals and a vibrant nightlife that will make anyone fall in love with Spain. Similar to Barcelona, Madrid takes work-life balance very seriously. Although here it is more about life than work. No one here is overworked. Madrid is primarily a party city that focuses on celebrating culture, going out with friends, enjoying long dinners and dancing until the morning.

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

Stress rating: 3,03/10

Copenhagen is considered one of the best and safest cities in Europe for individual travel and a leading city for the happiest people in the world. Copenhagen and Denmark as a whole prioritize holistic well-being and a high quality of life, which is evident in food choices, outdoor activities, walkable cities, access to nature, community, and a dozen other contributing factors. Combine the low crime rate, 0% homelessness, and free public healthcare, and travelers will find a recipe for a stress-free life in Copenhagen.

3. Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Stress score: 2,98/10

Edinburgh is widely known as a dazzling medieval city with beautiful architecture, fascinating history, and vibrant streets. What most people don't realize is that Edinburgh is highly regarded for prioritizing work-life balance and a low-stress environment.

Edinburgh is a leader in the UK in terms of high quality of life. A strong food and drink culture, safety, walkability, arts and history, and several beautiful parks provide travelers and residents with ample opportunities to enjoy life and take a break from the demands of work.

2. Munich, Germany

Stress rating: 2,79/10

Munich is the second least stressful city in the world thanks to its high-quality parks and green spaces, 0% homelessness rate, and ample average income. While the cost of living may be a bit higher than in other cities, Munich makes up for it with well-maintained streets, plenty of vacation time at work, and plenty of things to do in the city.

1. Vienna, Austria

Stress score: 2,67/10

The capital of Austria, Vienna, has become the least stressful city in the world. In addition, Vienna is a safe and clean city with a rich culture and a healthy work-life balance, boasting zero homelessness and an affordable cost of living.

As in most other European countries, it is also important not to work overtime and to prioritize your personal life over work in Austria. With a wide range of cultural activities, ample vacation time and easy access to the beautiful nature surrounding the city, Vienna is a harmonious and stress-free environment to visit and live in.