The 2026 survey of 173 cities reveals a global average score of 76.1, a figure unchanged from last year. This stagnation masks a volatile trade-off: a 0.5-point drop in stability metrics, largely driven by the ongoing war in Iran, was neutralized by a 0.7-point rise in healthcare outcomes. Asia emerged as the most improved region, now boasting nine cities in the top 20, largely due to infrastructure investments in China.

Fuzhou led the upward trend in China, climbing seven places to 93rd as national efforts to expand social insurance bolstered healthcare scores. Meanwhile, New York recorded a notable 1.2-point gain, reaching 66th place. According to the EIU, this improvement stems from years of declining crime rates and reduced security risks. Conversely, Middle Eastern hubs like Muscat and Kuwait City suffered significant setbacks, falling 14 and 12 places respectively.

Stability remains the primary determinant for the lowest-ranked cities. Damascus stays at the bottom, though it has seen minor healthcare improvements following the 2024 regime change. Tehran entered the bottom ten at 164th, while Kyiv continued its decline. Despite these disparities, major European hubs like London and Manchester have regained their footing, stabilizing after previous years of social unrest.