Influential professional services provider, PricewaterhouseCoopers, have continued their ongoing study of 30 major global cities. The sixth instalment of the Cities of Opportunity review takes the pulse of these cities and explores what makes a successful urban environment. This time, it was London who scored highest overall with a significant lead over second place New York, but each of the top five clearly have much to offer any ambitious expat. Which city of opportunity would you pick?
1. London
Britain’s bustling capital gained the top spot with a winning combination of international accessibility, technological readiness and economic clout. London has long been aware of its position on the world stage and ensured it is an enticing and hassle-free destination for foreign tourists and businesses alike with the highest flow of travellers of any city.
The city continues to stay at the forefront of technology keeping consistently ahead of the pack, particularly in areas such as multimedia and software design. The capital’s economic power sealed its place at the top, attracting substantial international investment and offering financial and business services amongst the best in the world cementing London as a city of opportunity. Unsurprisingly, London also came top in ‘relocation attractiveness’ amongst the professionals surveyed.
2. New York
While New York does not actually come top in any of the 10 main categories explored, the city proves that being a consistent all-rounder is what makes a true city of opportunity. The thriving Big Apple particularly shone as hotbed of innovation and cultural vibrancy. New Yorkers also enjoy the fairest and best enforced employee regulations in the world, as well as the best price to salary ratio for iPhones. Yet, it is New York’s high ranking across the board that seals it position second on the list.
3. Singapore
Singapore’s high ranking proves that a modern, pioneering city can compete with the established powerhouses. The city was top of the heap for transport and infrastructure, particularly due to the availability and low cost of good quality housing. Commuting is, naturally, a key concern for any urbanite and Singapore was ranked as the best city for traffic congestion, with a clear road system, reliable public transport network and the best airport in the world. Singapore was also voted the easiest place to do business due to number of countries to which it offers visa waivers and the relatively safe business and investment climate
4. Toronto
Canada’s economic centre, Toronto is one of the few North American cities experiencing substantial and encouraging growth, yet it is its simple liveability that pushes it into the top five here. Scoring highest for quality of life offered, the city boasts a winning combination of diverse culture, beautiful surroundings and world class transport, education and healthcare systems.
5. San Francisco
The second US city to make the top five, San Francisco’s early embracing of the emerging tech market has made it one of the most important cities in the world. Silicon Valley, in the southern bay area, remains home to some of the biggest global technology and communications companies such as Google and Apple. It is this pioneering spirit that keeps San Francisco at the top both in terms of entrepreneurial environment and productivity.
